100+ Best AI Image Prompts That Actually Work (2026 Guide)

Updated: 2026-01-13 15:07:49

Most AI image guides focus on features, models, or endless prompt examples yet still leave people frustrated with inconsistent results.

The missing piece isn’t a better model or longer prompts. It’s understanding how prompts actually work.

Here’s what I learned: most people are writing AI image prompts completely wrong.
They either write novels (300+ words describing every tiny detail) or they write “a cat” and wonder why the output looks generic. The truth sits somewhere in between and it’s simpler than you think.
This guide shares everything that actually worked: 100+ ready-to-copy prompts, the exact formula I use, common mistakes that kill your results, and platform-specific tips that make a real difference.

What's Inside

• The Simple Formula That Changed Everything
• 7 Mistakes That Ruin AI Images (And How to Fix Them)
• 100+ Copy-Paste Ready Prompts
• Platform-Specific Tips (Midjourney vs DALL-E vs Others)
• Advanced Techniques That Actually Matter
• FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered

The Simple Formula That Changed Everything

After hundreds of failed attempts, I finally figured out the pattern. Good prompts aren't about length they're about structure.

Here's the framework I now use for every single image:

The 4-Part Prompt Structure

SUBJECT + CONTEXT + STYLE + TECHNICAL SPECS
Sounds simple, right? That's the point. Let me break down each piece.

Part 1: Subject (Always Required)

This is your main focus. Be specific, not generic.

Bad:

• "A person"
• "A building"
• "An animal"

Good:

• "A weathered fisherman in his 60s with salt-and-pepper beard"
• "A Victorian brick townhouse with ivy climbing the walls"
• "A golden retriever puppy with floppy ears"

The difference? Specificity creates character. Don't just tell the AI what tell it which one.

Part 2: Context (Always Required)

Where is it? What's happening? This is your scene-setting.

Think about:

• Location: "in a cozy coffee shop," "on a windswept beach," "inside a neon-lit arcade"
• Action: "reading a newspaper," "mid-jump over a puddle," "laughing with friends"
• Environment: "surrounded by vintage furniture," "with city lights in background," "during a thunderstorm"

Example: "A weathered fisherman in his 60s with salt-and-pepper beard, mending fishing nets on a wooden dock at sunrise"

See how context brings it to life?

Part 3: Style (Highly Recommended)

This tells the AI what aesthetic you're after.

For photorealistic:

• "iPhone 15 Pro camera quality"
• "National Geographic photography style"
• "Shot on Nikon D850, 85mm lens"
• "Cinematic film photography"

For artistic:

• "Watercolor painting style"
• "Anime, Studio Ghibli aesthetic"
• "Oil painting in the style of Rembrandt"
• "Minimalist digital illustration"

Pro tip: Specific camera/film references work surprisingly well. "Shot on Fujifilm" gives a different look than "shot on Sony mirrorless."

Part 4: Technical Specs (Optional but Powerful)

This is where you fine-tune the details.

Lighting:

• "Golden hour soft lighting"
• "Dramatic side lighting with deep shadows"
• "Overcast diffused natural light"
• "Neon blue and pink lighting"

Composition:

• "Close-up portrait"
• "Wide-angle environmental shot"
• "Rule of thirds composition"
• "Bird's eye view"

Quality indicators:

• "Sharp focus on subject"
• "Shallow depth of field with bokeh"
• "High detail, 8K resolution"
• "Film grain texture"

Putting It All Together

Weak prompt: "A coffee shop"

Strong prompt using the formula: "A cozy neighborhood coffee shop with exposed brick walls and vintage leather armchairs, customers working on laptops, warm Edison bulb lighting, afternoon sunlight streaming through large windows, shot in documentary photography style, shallow depth of field"

Word count: 36 words perfect range.

Here's the thing I discovered: 15-50 words is the sweet spot. Shorter than 15 feels vague. Longer than 50 starts confusing the AI with too many competing instructions.

7 Mistakes That Ruin AI Images (And How to Fix Them)

I made all of these mistakes. Multiple times. Learn from my pain.

Mistake #1: Using Empty Buzzwords

I used to stuff my prompts with "award-winning," "ultra-realistic," "highly detailed," "masterpiece."

The problem: These words mean nothing to AI. They're filler. Every prompt already tries to create quality you're not giving any actual direction.

What to do instead:

• Replace "ultra-realistic" with "photorealistic with visible skin texture and natural lighting"
• Replace "highly detailed" with "fine texture detail in fabric weave and wood grain"
• Replace "masterpiece" with actual style references: "in the style of Annie Leibovitz portrait photography"

Mistake #2: Writing Like You're Talking to a Person

Bad: "Hey, can you create an image showing a woman who looks happy standing by a window with some plants around her?"

Good: "Young woman with genuine smile, standing by sunlit window, potted plants on wooden windowsill, natural morning light, candid lifestyle photography"

AI image generators parse keywords and descriptors they're not chatbots. Save the conversation for ChatGPT. Here, be direct and descriptive.

Mistake #3: Overloading Your Prompt

I once wrote a prompt with 14 different elements. The AI tried to include everything and succeeded at nothing.

The principle: More elements = less focus on each element.

Bad: "A superhero wearing a red cape and blue suit with yellow boots standing on a skyscraper during sunset with clouds and birds and lightning while holding a shield and wearing a mask with glowing eyes"

Better: "Superhero in red cape and blue suit, standing on skyscraper rooftop at sunset, dramatic storm clouds, cinematic composition, wide-angle shot"

Pick your 3-4 most important elements. Let the AI fill in natural details.

Mistake #4: Ignoring Your End Use

I kept generating stunning 16:9 landscape images... for Instagram posts that need 1:1 squares.

Always consider:

• Instagram post → 1:1 square
• Instagram Story → 9:16 vertical
• YouTube thumbnail → 16:9 horizontal
• Pinterest → 2:3 vertical
• Blog header → 2:1 or 3:1 horizontal

Most platforms let you set aspect ratio before generating. Use it.

Mistake #5: Expecting Perfection on Try #1

Here's the honest truth: my first attempt is rarely my final image.

I usually need 3-5 variations:

• First prompt: Gets me to 70-80%
• Second prompt: Refines the weak spots
• Third prompt: Dials in the final details

This is normal. Budget time for iteration.

Mistake #6: Using Abstract Concepts as Subjects

Doesn't work: "Create an image of happiness"

Works: "Child laughing while jumping in rain puddles, pure joy on face, autumn leaves falling"

AI needs concrete, visual subjects. Abstract emotions need physical representations.

Mistake #7: Not Learning Your Platform

Each AI tool has quirks:

• Midjourney loves short, punchy prompts (under 60 words)
• DALL-E 3 handles longer, conversational descriptions
• Stable Diffusion rewards technical parameters and negative prompts
• Ideogram is best for text within images

Using the same approach for all of them? You're fighting the tool instead of working with it.

100+ Copy-Paste Ready Prompts

Alright, enough theory. Here are the prompts I actually use and reuse. I've organized them by category so you can find what you need quickly.

How to use these:

1. Copy the entire prompt
2. Adjust specific details to match your needs (change colors, ages, settings)
3. Add or remove technical specs based on your platform
4. Generate 2-3 variations before committing

Professional Portraits (15 prompts)

1. Corporate Headshot

Professional headshot of confident businesswoman in her 30s, navy blazer, neutral gray background, soft studio lighting creating subtle shadows, direct eye contact, slight professional smile, shot with 85mm portrait lens, sharp focus on eyes
Best for: LinkedIn profiles, company websites, press releases

1. Creative Professional Portrait

Graphic designer in creative studio workspace, surrounded by colorful mood boards and sketches, natural window lighting from left, candid working pose, wearing casual denim shirt, shallow depth of field focusing on subject, editorial photography style
Best for: Portfolio websites, about pages, creative industry profiles

1. Medical Professional

Doctor in white coat with stethoscope, hospital corridor background with soft blur, confident yet approachable expression, clean even lighting, professional medical photography style, medium shot composition

1. Startup Founder Portrait

Young entrepreneur in modern coworking space, laptop and coffee on wooden table, natural mixed lighting from large windows, determined yet friendly expression, documentary-style photography, slightly desaturated color palette

1. Outdoor Professional Casual

Business casual portrait outdoors, subject wearing light sweater, urban park background with soft bokeh, golden hour lighting creating warm glow, relaxed confident posture, lifestyle corporate photography

1. Team Collaboration Shot

Diverse team of four professionals collaborating around conference table, modern office with glass walls, natural daylight, genuine interaction and engagement, shot from corner perspective, corporate documentary style

1. Workshop Instructor

Professional instructor presenting to small group, whiteboard with diagrams visible, bright workshop space, engaging hand gestures mid-explanation, warm educational atmosphere, photojournalistic style

1. Remote Worker Setup

Professional working from home office, clean minimalist desk setup, MacBook and notebook, plant in background, soft afternoon window light, focused working expression, lifestyle professional photography

1. Outdoor Portrait - Golden Hour

Professional portrait during golden hour, subject standing on urban rooftop, city skyline blurred in background, warm backlight creating rim light effect, cinematic color grading, confident pose

1. Creative Headshot - Bold

Bold creative headshot with dramatic single-source lighting, dark background, subject wearing black turtleneck, strong shadows creating dimension, high-contrast black and white photography, intense gaze

1. Casual Friday Vibe

Casual professional portrait, subject wearing fitted hoodie and glasses, modern office lounge background, natural friendly smile, bright airy lighting, approachable tech industry aesthetic

1. Executive Portrait

Senior executive portrait in corner office, floor-to-ceiling windows with city view, power pose standing with arms crossed, tailored charcoal suit, environmental corporate portrait, medium wide shot

1. Podcast Host Portrait

Podcast host in recording studio, microphone and audio equipment visible, warm amber lighting, expressive engaging pose, authentic broadcasting environment, media professional photography

1. Fitness Professional

Fitness coach portrait in gym environment, wearing athletic brand clothing, natural lighting from gym windows, motivated confident expression, blurred exercise equipment in background, sports lifestyle photography

1. Artist in Studio

Artist portrait in paint-splattered studio, surrounded by canvases and art supplies, natural skylight illumination, authentic creative environment, covered in creative process evidence, documentary portrait style

Landscape & Nature (15 prompts)

1. Mountain Vista

Majestic mountain range with snow-capped peaks, reflection in calm alpine lake, pine forest in foreground, dramatic clouds during golden hour, wide-angle landscape photography, Ansel Adams style, high dynamic range

1. Desert Minimalism

Vast sand dunes in Sahara Desert at sunrise, warm orange and pink gradient sky, long shadows creating texture on dune ridges, single traveler silhouette for scale, minimalist composition, 16:9 cinematic format

1. Tropical Beach

Pristine tropical beach with crystal turquoise water, white sand, coconut palm trees leaning over shore, scattered puffy clouds in bright blue sky, drone aerial perspective, vacation photography, vibrant natural colors

1. Foggy Forest

Mystical forest path with morning fog, sunlight rays piercing through mist and trees, ferns covering forest floor, ethereal atmospheric quality, nature photography, cool color temperature, long exposure effect

1. Coastal Sunset

Dramatic coastline at sunset, waves crashing against rocky shore, warm orange sun touching horizon, long exposure creating silky water effect, moody sky with scattered clouds, seascape photography

1. Autumn Forest Road

Winding forest road in peak autumn, trees forming colorful canopy of orange and yellow leaves, fallen leaves covering asphalt, misty morning atmosphere, New England fall aesthetic, landscape photography

1. Cherry Blossom Park

Cherry blossom trees in full bloom along park pathway, pink petals falling like snow, people walking under flower canopy, soft pastel colors, Japanese garden aesthetic, springtime serenity, soft focus

1. Winter Mountain Cabin

Snow-covered log cabin in forest clearing, smoke rising from stone chimney, warm light glowing from windows, heavy snow on pine branches, twilight blue hour, cozy winter scene, storybook quality

1. Rolling Hills Countryside

Tuscan countryside with rolling green hills, cypress trees lining dirt road, old stone farmhouse on hilltop, golden afternoon sunlight, scattered clouds casting shadows, Italian landscape painting style, pastoral tranquility

1. Waterfall in Rainforest

Powerful waterfall cascading down moss-covered rocks, tropical rainforest surrounding, mist creating soft rainbow, long exposure silk water effect, lush green vegetation, nature photography, vertical composition

1. Northern Lights

Aurora borealis dancing across night sky, vibrant green and purple lights, snow-covered landscape below, small cabin with warm windows, star field visible, astrophotography, long exposure, natural wonder

1. Lavender Field Sunset

Endless rows of purple lavender stretching to horizon, golden hour sunlight, old stone farmhouse in distance, gentle breeze creating waves in flowers, Provence France aesthetic, romantic countryside

1. Desert After Rain

Desert landscape with rare wildflower bloom, colorful flowers carpeting arid terrain, clear blue sky, wide-angle showing vastness of flower field, vibrant color contrast, nature's transformation moment

1. Misty Mountain Layers

Mountain peaks emerging from sea of clouds at dawn, layers of mountains fading into distance, soft morning light, minimalist composition, peaceful atmosphere, Chinese ink painting aesthetic, tranquil vista

1. Rocky Mountain Lake

Alpine lake with mirror reflection of jagged mountain peaks, turquoise glacial water, scattered boulders in foreground, clear mountain air, Canadian Rockies style, sharp landscape photography, pristine wilderness

Product Photography (15 prompts)

1. Tech Product Minimal

White wireless earbuds on matte black surface, clean product photography, single directional light from upper left creating subtle shadow, minimal composition with negative space, modern commercial aesthetic, 8K detail

1. Luxury Watch Detail

Premium Swiss chronograph watch with leather strap on polished marble, dramatic side lighting highlighting metallic details, macro close-up showing craftsmanship, shallow depth of field, luxury product photography, dark sophisticated background

1. Gourmet Food Styling

Artisan burger with melted aged cheddar and caramelized onions, rustic wooden board, fresh herbs as garnish, warm overhead lighting, steam rising, appetizing presentation, food magazine editorial style, close-up hero shot

1. Skincare Product Natural

Glass serum bottle surrounded by fresh eucalyptus leaves and water droplets, clean white background, soft diffused natural light, dewy fresh aesthetic, health and beauty photography, organic wellness vibe

1. Fashion Accessory Elegant

Designer leather handbag in cognac brown, displayed on cream pedestal, soft studio lighting with controlled shadows, attention to leather texture and stitching detail, luxury fashion photography, elegant minimalist presentation

1. Athletic Footwear Dynamic

High-performance running shoe suspended mid-air, water droplets splashing around, dark gradient background, dramatic lighting emphasizing sole technology, sports product photography, action-oriented composition, Nike commercial style

1. Coffee Product Lifestyle

Freshly roasted coffee beans scattered around ceramic mug with latte art, burlap fabric as backdrop, warm morning natural light, steam visible rising from cup, artisanal beverage photography, inviting cozy atmosphere

1. Craft Beer Rustic

Craft IPA bottle with condensation droplets, placed on weathered wooden bar surface, warm pub ambient lighting, hops and barley visible in background, authentic brewery aesthetic, artisanal beverage photography

1. Smart Home Device

Modern smart speaker on minimalist white side table, contemporary living room background softly blurred, natural window lighting, lifestyle technology photography, clean Scandinavian home aesthetic, everyday use context

1. Jewelry Macro

Diamond engagement ring on white silk fabric, extreme macro showing facets and light dispersion, soft diffused lighting to show sparkle, reflection visible on surface, high-end jewelry photography, romantic elegant presentation

1. Outdoor Gear Adventure

Premium camera backpack in mountain forest setting, photography equipment partially visible inside, dappled sunlight through pine trees, adventure travel aesthetic, lifestyle product photography, authentic outdoor environment

1. Organic Skincare Flat Lay

Handmade soap bars arranged with fresh lavender sprigs, essential oil bottles, marble surface, soft window light from side, spa aesthetic, organic beauty products, artisan crafted presentation, overhead composition

1. Automotive Detail Shot

Close-up of luxury car headlight at dusk, rain droplets on polished black paint, urban evening background with bokeh city lights, automotive photography, attention to design curve and LED detail, sophisticated mood

1. Home Textiles Cozy

Handwoven throw blanket draped over modern gray sofa, neutral toned pillows, indoor plants in background, afternoon sunlight creating soft shadows, interior design lifestyle photography, hygge cozy home aesthetic

1. Kitchen Appliance Clean

Stainless steel espresso machine on marble kitchen counter, clean modern kitchen background, soft even lighting, product centered with breathing room, sleek appliance photography, contemporary home aesthetic

Food Photography (10 prompts)

1. Breakfast Flat Lay

Breakfast flat lay with avocado toast, sunny-side eggs, fresh orange juice, white marble table, natural morning light from window, scattered fresh berries, lifestyle food photography, bright airy aesthetic, overhead view

1. Dessert Close-up

Chocolate lava cake with molten center flowing out, vanilla ice cream melting on side, dark moody background, dramatic side lighting, food porn style photography, macro detail, rich indulgent mood

1. Pizza Slice Steam

Fresh pizza slice being lifted, melted cheese stretching, steam rising, rustic wooden pizza board, warm restaurant lighting, appetizing cheese pull, Italian restaurant photography, close-up food action shot

1. Sushi Platter Elegant

Elegant sushi platter on black slate, assorted nigiri and rolls artistically arranged, garnish of wasabi and ginger, minimalist Japanese presentation, natural window light, fine dining photography, clean negative space

1. Smoothie Bowl Colorful

Vibrant açai smoothie bowl topped with fresh berries, granola, coconut flakes, arranged in artistic pattern, white bowl on rustic wooden table, bright natural lighting, healthy breakfast aesthetic, Instagram food photography

1. Steak Dinner Upscale

Perfectly grilled ribeye steak on white plate, restaurant quality plating, roasted vegetables, reduction sauce, soft restaurant ambient lighting, fine dining photography, shallow depth of field, gourmet presentation

1. Coffee Shop Aesthetic

Cappuccino with detailed latte art on marble café table, croissant on small plate beside it, soft natural café lighting, overhead angle, minimalist coffee shop aesthetic, lifestyle beverage photography

1. Farmers Market Fresh

Fresh produce basket overflowing with colorful vegetables, farmers market wooden stand, natural outdoor lighting, organic farm-fresh aesthetic, rustic presentation, healthy eating photography, vibrant natural colors

1. Cocktail Sophisticated

Craft cocktail in coupe glass with smoke effect, garnished with fresh herbs, dark bar background, dramatic backlighting highlighting glass, mixology photography, sophisticated bar aesthetic, moody atmosphere

1. Bakery Display

Assorted fresh pastries in bakery display case, croissants and pain au chocolat, warm golden brown baking, soft bakery lighting, French patisserie aesthetic, appetizing bakery photography, slightly overhead angle

Interior Design (10 prompts)

1. Modern Living Room

Bright minimalist living room with floor-to-ceiling windows, white walls, light oak hardwood, mid-century modern furniture, abundant natural light, indoor plants adding life, Scandinavian interior design, clean architectural lines

1. Cozy Reading Nook

Reading nook with comfortable armchair by window, built-in bookshelves filled with books, warm table lamp, plush throw blanket, afternoon sunlight streaming in, cozy hygge aesthetic, intimate home corner

1. Industrial Loft

Urban loft apartment with exposed brick walls, metal beam ceiling, leather furniture, Edison bulb pendant lights, large factory windows, industrial-chic interior design, warm ambient evening lighting

1. Spa Bathroom Luxury

Luxury spa bathroom with freestanding soaking tub, white marble tiles, brass fixtures, large window overlooking garden, natural stone accents and candles, warm ambient lighting, hotel luxury aesthetic, serene sanctuary

1. Modern Home Office

Clean modern home office, standing desk facing window with city view, minimalist design, ergonomic chair, MacBook and notebook, single indoor plant, natural daylight, productive workspace aesthetic, professional remote work setup

1. Bohemian Bedroom

Bohemian bedroom with macramé wall hangings, layered textiles and pillows, hanging plants, warm string lights, natural wood furniture, cozy maximalist aesthetic, soft ambient lighting, eclectic personal style

1. Chef's Kitchen

Professional home kitchen with marble island, stainless steel appliances, pot rack with copper pots, large windows, herb garden on windowsill, bright natural lighting, culinary dream kitchen, architectural photography

1. Kids Playroom Bright

Bright colorful kids playroom, organized toy storage, reading corner with bean bags, creative play area, natural light from large windows, cheerful playful aesthetic, safe child-friendly design, organized chaos

1. Wine Cellar Sophisticated

Elegant wine cellar with floor-to-ceiling bottle storage, wooden tasting table, warm ambient lighting, brick archway, sophisticated wine collection, luxury home feature, moody atmospheric lighting

1. Sunroom Garden Room

Bright sunroom filled with indoor plants, wicker furniture with white cushions, terracotta tile floor, walls of windows, abundant natural light, botanical garden aesthetic, peaceful green sanctuary

Fantasy & Sci-Fi (10 prompts)

1. Dragon Landscape Epic

Majestic dragon with iridescent blue and gold scales perched on cliff edge, wings spread against full moon, mountain valley below with mist, epic fantasy scene, dramatic moonlight, detailed scale texture, cinematic composition, mythical creature art

1. Alien Planet Vista

Alien planet landscape with purple atmosphere, two moons visible in sky, unusual crystalline rock formations, bioluminescent plants glowing, distant space station on horizon, sci-fi concept art, otherworldly color palette, cinematic wide shot

1. Steampunk Cityscape

Victorian steampunk city with brass dirigibles floating between buildings, gear-driven architecture, steam vents and pipes, clockwork tower in center, sepia-toned color grading, industrial fantasy aesthetic, detailed mechanical elements, Jules Verne inspiration

1. Magical Library Ancient

Vast magical library with books floating between levels, spiral staircases defying gravity, glowing enchanted tomes casting light, wizard in robes studying ancient scrolls, mystical particles drifting in air, fantasy illustration, warm candlelight atmosphere

1. Cyberpunk Street Night

Neon-lit cyberpunk city street at night, rain-soaked pavement reflecting pink and blue signs, flying vehicles overhead, crowds with cybernetic augmentations, dystopian future aesthetic, high contrast lighting, Blade Runner atmosphere, foggy depth

1. Underwater City Ruins

Ancient underwater ruins with coral-covered columns, schools of tropical fish swimming through, shafts of sunlight penetrating from surface, diver exploring with light beam, underwater photography aesthetic, blue-green color palette, mysterious sunken civilization

1. Space Station Interior

Futuristic space station interior corridor, curved walls with illuminated panels, astronaut floating in zero gravity, Earth visible through large observation window, advanced technology, sci-fi movie aesthetic, cool blue ambient lighting

1. Enchanted Forest Portal

Magical forest clearing with glowing mushrooms forming circle, fairy lights dancing between ancient trees, mystical portal with swirling energy, ethereal mist at ground level, fantasy woodland scene, soft magical lighting, whimsical storybook style

1. Post-Apocalyptic City

Abandoned city overtaken by nature, vines covering skyscrapers, broken roads with trees growing through, rusted vehicles, golden sunset light, post-apocalyptic world, nature reclaiming civilization, dramatic environmental concept art

1. Crystal Cave Magical

Underground crystal cavern with giant glowing crystals, ethereal blue and purple bioluminescence, underground lake reflecting formations, magical energy crackling between crystals, fantasy cave exploration, dramatic scale showing tiny explorer, otherworldly beauty

Character & Portrait Art (10 prompts)

1. Fantasy Wizard Portrait

Ancient wizard with long silver beard and hair, wise weathered face, ornate purple robes with golden astronomical embroidery, holding gnarled wooden staff with glowing crystal, mystical forest background, detailed fantasy character art, painterly digital style

1. Cyberpunk Netrunner

Female netrunner character with neon blue holographic interface, half her face with cybernetic implants showing circuitry, wearing tactical black jacket, rain-slicked city background, cyberpunk aesthetic, dramatic neon lighting, detailed character design

1. Pirate Captain Portrait

Weathered pirate captain with braided beard, tricorn hat with feathers, leather coat and brass buttons, standing on ship deck with ocean behind, scar across cheek, confident expression, historical adventure aesthetic, cinematic portrait lighting

1. Elven Archer

Elven archer with long blonde hair and pointed ears, leather armor with nature motifs, ornate bow in hand, forest glade background, ethereal beauty, fantasy character art, soft natural lighting, detailed costume design

1. Samurai Warrior

Samurai warrior in traditional armor with demon mask helmet, katana drawn in ready stance, cherry blossom petals falling, misty mountain background, feudal Japan aesthetic, dramatic composition, historical fantasy art

1. Victorian Gentleman

Victorian era gentleman in tailored three-piece suit, pocket watch chain visible, top hat and walking cane, London street background with gas lamps, foggy evening atmosphere, period portrait photography style, historical accuracy

1. Space Explorer

Future space explorer in advanced pressure suit with transparent helmet, standing on alien planet surface, strange landscape behind, two moons in sky, sci-fi character design, cinematic lighting, sense of wonder and discovery

1. Medieval Knight

Medieval knight in full plate armor with heraldic symbol, helmet under arm, standing before castle gates, banner flags waving, overcast dramatic sky, historical fantasy, epic portrait composition, detailed armor texture

1. Tribal Warrior

Tribal warrior with traditional face paint and ceremonial attire, holding spear and shield with tribal patterns, jungle background, proud powerful stance, cultural portrait art, natural lighting, respectful authentic representation

1. Jazz Musician 1920s

Jazz musician in 1920s attire playing saxophone, smoky club background, art deco elements, moody stage lighting, vintage aesthetic, roaring twenties era, black and white photography style with slight sepia tone

Abstract & Artistic (10 prompts)

1. Fluid Art Gold

Abstract fluid art with swirling gold leaf, deep navy blue, and white paint creating marble effect, organic flowing shapes mixing, luxury aesthetic, high-resolution macro photography showing texture, metallic accents catching light

1. Geometric Pattern Modern

Precise geometric pattern with interlocking hexagons and triangles, gradient color transitions from coral pink to turquoise blue, modern mathematical art, perfect symmetry, digital vector art style, contemporary abstract design

1. Watercolor Burst

Vibrant watercolor explosion with organic splashes and blooms, transparent layers of magenta, yellow, and turquoise blending, white background emphasizing colors, loose painterly style, artistic freedom and movement, creative expression

1. Minimalist Zen

Ultra-minimalist composition with single smooth stone centered on vast empty white space, monochromatic gray tones, heavy negative space emphasis, zen aesthetic, contemporary fine art photography, meditative peaceful mood

1. Macro Texture Study

Extreme close-up of weathered driftwood grain, rich texture showing age and erosion patterns, warm brown and gray tones, macro photography revealing intricate details, tactile visual quality, natural material beauty

1. Light Trails Long Exposure

Long exposure light painting with swirling trails of electric blue and orange light, total darkness background, abstract motion captured over time, experimental photography technique, energetic flowing composition

1. Surreal Dreamscape

Surrealist composition with floating islands in pink sky, impossible stairways connecting them, giant clock faces melting, dreamlike atmosphere, Salvador Dalí inspiration, oil painting style, thought-provoking imagery

1. Color Field Gradient

Smooth color field painting transitioning seamlessly from warm sunset orange through soft pink to cool twilight purple, soft atmospheric quality, abstract expressionism, large scale feel, peaceful contemplative mood

1. Fractal Mathematics

Intricate fractal pattern with self-repeating Mandelbrot structures, psychedelic color palette ranging through spectrum, mathematical beauty visualization, infinite zoom quality, digital generative art, mesmerizing complexity

1. Mixed Media Collage

Contemporary mixed media collage combining vintage newspaper clippings, watercolor washes, ink splatters, and digital glitch elements, layered composition with texture, urban art aesthetic, experimental contemporary style

Seasonal & Celebration (5 prompts)

1. Christmas Fireplace

Cozy Christmas living room with decorated tree beside stone fireplace, stockings hung, wrapped presents beneath tree, snow visible through frosted window, warm golden glow from fire and string lights, nostalgic holiday atmosphere, family gathering vibe

1. Halloween Porch Spooky

Halloween decorated front porch with carved jack-o-lanterns glowing on steps, fog machine creating atmospheric mist, autumn leaves scattered, trick-or-treaters approaching in costumes, twilight purple sky, family-friendly spooky mood, seasonal celebration

1. Spring Garden Party

Elegant outdoor spring garden party with pastel tablecloths, fresh flower centerpieces, tiered cake stand, cherry blossoms overhead, afternoon tea service, natural daylight, sophisticated celebration, romantic garden aesthetic, soft focus background

1. Summer Beach Bonfire

Beach bonfire at sunset with friends gathered in circle, flames reflecting on faces, golden hour lighting, ocean waves in background, scattered beach blankets and coolers, summer evening atmosphere, lifestyle celebration photography

1. New Year's Midnight

New Year's Eve celebration moment with champagne glasses raised in toast, confetti suspended mid-air, clock showing midnight, sparklers being waved, party crowd blurred in background, festive energy captured, celebration photography, joyful transition

Platform-Specific Tips That Actually Work

Each platform has its own personality. Here's what I've learned works best for each one.

Midjourney: Keep It Short and Punchy

What works:

• Prompts under 60 words
• Short descriptive phrases separated by commas
• Style keywords at the end
• Using parameters (--ar for aspect ratio, --style for aesthetics)

Example that works well:

Elderly craftsman in workshop, warm light from window, detailed wood carvings in background, shallow focus, documentary portrait style --ar 3:2 --style raw
What doesn't work:

• Long conversational descriptions
• Overly complex sentences
• Too many competing instructions

Version differences I've noticed:

• V6/V7: Better at understanding natural language, less reliant on keywords
• V5: Best for photorealism
• Niji: Optimized for anime use it when you want manga/anime style

DALL-E 3: You Can Actually Have a Conversation

What works:

• Longer, more detailed descriptions
• Natural conversational language
• Multiple sentences explaining your vision
• Specific requests about composition and elements

Example that works well:

Create a professional photograph of a modern home office. The room should have large windows with natural light, a wooden desk with a laptop and coffee mug, a comfortable office chair, and several indoor plants. The walls should be white with one piece of abstract art. The overall mood should be calm and productive, captured with soft natural lighting that creates a peaceful workspace atmosphere.
What doesn't work:

• Overly brief prompts (it can handle detail)
• Lots of technical jargon without context

Pro tip: DALL-E 3 through ChatGPT can iterate based on feedback. You can say "make the lighting warmer" or "add more plants" and it understands.

Stable Diffusion: Technical Parameters Welcome

What works:

• Up to 380 characters
• Weighted keywords using (emphasis:1.5) syntax
• Negative prompts to avoid unwanted elements
• Technical photography terms

Example positive prompt:

Portrait of elegant woman, (Victorian dress:1.3), ornate jewelry, (Rembrandt lighting:1.2), oil painting style, highly detailed, 8K
Example negative prompt:

blurry, low quality, distorted proportions, bad anatomy, cropped, watermark, signature, text, amateur, jpeg artifacts
What doesn't work:

• Conversational language
• Vague descriptions

Pro tip: The negative prompt is almost as important as the main prompt. Always use one.

Flux & Ideogram: Best for Text in Images

What works for text:

• Put your desired text in quotation marks: "EXPLORE NORWAY"
• Keep text short (under 25 characters ideal)
• Specify font style generally (not specific font names)
• Simple, clear instructions

Example:

Vintage travel poster with text "PARIS" in bold retro font, showing Eiffel Tower and cafés, 1950s aesthetic, muted color palette, minimal design
What doesn't work:

• Long phrases or sentences as text
• Expecting specific fonts by name
• Cursive or script fonts (harder to render)

Leonardo AI: Reference Images Are Your Friend

What works:

• Uploading reference images for style matching
• Detailed lighting descriptions
• Character consistency across images
• Using preset styles for quick results

Example with reference:

Use reference image for character appearance, show same person in business meeting setting, corporate office background, professional attire, confident expression, natural office lighting, photorealistic style

Advanced Techniques That Actually Matter

Once you've got the basics down, these techniques can take your results to the next level.

1. The Iteration Strategy

Don't aim for perfection on attempt #1. Instead, use this workflow:

First attempt: Broad strokes

"Modern coffee shop interior"
Second attempt: Add specifics

"Modern coffee shop interior with exposed brick walls, vintage furniture, natural light from large windows"
Third attempt: Fine-tune details

"Modern coffee shop interior with exposed brick walls, vintage leather chairs, Edison bulb lighting, customers working on laptops, natural afternoon light streaming through large street-facing windows, warm inviting atmosphere"
Usually by the third or fourth version, you nail it.

1. Lighting Makes or Breaks Your Image

Here are lighting terms that actually produce consistent results:

Natural light:

• "Golden hour" - warm sunset/sunrise glow
• "Blue hour" - cool twilight just after sunset
• "Overcast soft light" - even, shadowless
• "Harsh midday sun" - strong shadows
• "Window light from left" - directional natural light

Artificial light:

• "Studio lighting with softbox" - professional photography setup
• "Rembrandt lighting" - dramatic portrait style with triangle highlight
• "Neon lighting" - colorful artificial glow
• "Candlelight" - warm, intimate glow
• "Street lamp at night" - isolated pools of light

1. Camera and Lens Simulation

For photorealistic images, fake real photography equipment:

Works surprisingly well:

• "Shot on iPhone 15 Pro" - modern smartphone look
• "Shot with Sony A7III, 50mm f/1.8" - mirrorless camera aesthetic
• "Nikon D850, 85mm portrait lens" - professional DSLR look
• "Hasselblad medium format" - high-end commercial photography
• "Vintage film camera, Kodak Portra 400" - film photography aesthetic

The AI has learned what images from these cameras look like, so it mimics them.

1. Composition Language

These terms consistently work:

• "Rule of thirds" - subject placed at intersection points
• "Centered composition" - subject dead center
• "Leading lines" - elements directing eye to subject
• "Symmetrical composition" - balanced left and right
• "Overhead flat lay" - looking straight down
• "Worm's eye view" - looking up from ground level
• "Bird's eye view" - looking down from above

1. Color Grading Shortcuts

Want a specific mood? Try these:

• "Cinematic teal and orange color grading" - blockbuster movie look
• "Muted earth tones" - subtle, natural palette
• "High saturation vibrant colors" - bold and punchy
• "Desaturated with single color accent" - mostly B&W with color pop
• "Warm color temperature" - cozy, inviting feel
• "Cool color temperature" - calm, professional feel

1. The Negative Prompt Power Move (Stable Diffusion)

Always include these in your negative prompt:

blurry, out of focus, low quality, low resolution, pixelated, distorted, deformed proportions, bad anatomy, extra limbs, missing limbs, watermark, signature, text, username, date, amateur, beginner
This prevents the most common AI artifacts.

1. Aspect Ratio Strategy

Match your ratio to your end use:

• 1:1 (square) - Instagram posts, profile pictures
• 4:5 (portrait) - Instagram feed optimization
• 9:16 (vertical) - Instagram Stories, TikTok, Reels
• 16:9 (landscape) - YouTube thumbnails, presentations, desktop wallpapers
• 2:3 (portrait) - Pinterest pins
• 3:2 (landscape) - Standard photo print ratio

1. The "Style Reference" Trick

Instead of describing a style in detail, reference a well-known source:

• "In the style of Wes Anderson film" - symmetrical, pastel, quirky
• "National Geographic photography aesthetic" - documentary, natural, impactful
• "Studio Ghibli animation style" - whimsical, detailed, emotional
• "Film noir aesthetic" - high contrast, dramatic shadows, mystery
• "Annie Leibovitz portrait photography" - iconic, dramatic, thoughtful

The AI knows these references and can mimic them.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

How long should my prompt actually be?

15-50 words is the sweet spot I've found. Under 15 tends to be too vague. Over 50 starts to confuse most AI models with too many competing instructions.

That said, DALL-E 3 can handle longer prompts better than Midjourney, which prefers brevity.

Should I use technical photography terms even if I'm not a photographer?

Yes, but only if you understand what they mean. Terms like "bokeh," "shallow depth of field," and "golden hour" produce specific, consistent results. But don't throw in random camera jargon just because it sounds professional.

Start with basics:

• "Soft natural lighting" (easy to understand, works great)
• "Blurred background" (instead of "bokeh")
• "Close-up" (instead of "macro lens 100mm")

As you learn what works, add more technical terms.

Why do my AI portraits have weird hands?

This is the #1 complaint everyone has. AI still struggles with hands because they're complex and can be positioned in infinite ways.

To improve hand results:

• Don't make hands the focal point unless necessary
• Use "anatomically correct hands" in your prompt
• Try "hands resting naturally" rather than specific gestures
• Use negative prompts: "deformed hands, extra fingers, missing fingers"
• Generate multiple versions and pick the best

Honestly? Sometimes you still get weird hands. It's improving with each model update.

Can I mention specific artists in my prompts?

Technically yes, but there are ethical considerations. Many artists are uncomfortable with AI being trained on their work without compensation.

Better alternatives:

• Reference art movements: "Impressionist style," "Art Deco aesthetic," "Baroque painting"
• Use descriptive terms: "Painterly brushstrokes," "minimalist design," "surrealist composition"
• Reference genres: "Victorian era portrait," "Film noir atmosphere"

For commercial use, definitely consult legal advice about artist references.

What's the difference between different AI platforms?

Each has strengths:

• Midjourney: Best overall quality, strong artistic interpretation, great for creative work
• DALL-E 3: Most versatile, good at understanding complex instructions, easy to use
• Stable Diffusion: Most customizable, free and open source, steeper learning curve
• Ideogram/Flux: Best for text within images, good for logos and graphic design
• Leonardo AI: Best for character consistency, good reference image support

I use Midjourney for most creative work, DALL-E 3 when I need something specific explained, and Stable Diffusion when I want maximum control.

How do I make my images look less "AI-generated"?

The telltale AI signs:

• Too perfect, lacking natural imperfections
• Overly smooth textures
• Symmetry where there shouldn't be
• That "AI sheen" - everything looks slightly glossy

To combat this:

• Add "natural imperfections" to your prompt
• Use "film grain" or "slight noise texture"
• Specify "candid moment" rather than "posed"
• Try "documentary photography style" for realism
• Include "iPhone photo quality" for authentic feel

Do I need to use negative prompts?

Depends on the platform:

• Stable Diffusion: Definitely use them. They significantly improve results.
• Midjourney: Not available, don't worry about it.
• DALL-E 3: Not used, the model handles this internally.

If your platform supports negative prompts, use them. They help avoid common problems.

How many variations should I generate before choosing?

I typically generate 3-5 variations. Here's why:

• Variation 1: Often has some issues but shows potential
• Variation 2-3: Refinements based on what worked/didn't work in first try
• Variation 4-5: Final tweaks to get exactly what I want

Rarely do I generate just once and call it done. Budget time for iteration.

Can AI reliably add text to images?

Getting better, but still tricky. Ideogram and Flux are specifically designed for this and work pretty well. DALL-E 3 and Midjourney V6 have improved but aren't perfect.

Best practices:

• Keep text very short (3-5 words maximum)
• Use quotation marks around your desired text
• Specify font style generally: "bold sans-serif font" not "Helvetica Neue"
• Generate multiple versions text rendering is inconsistent
• For important projects, plan to manually add text in Photoshop

Why do my results look different than the examples I see online?

Several reasons:

1. Different AI versions (Midjourney V5 vs V6 produces different results)
2. Random variation (same prompt can yield different results)
3. Post-processing (many people edit AI images afterward)
4. Cherry-picking (you're seeing their best 1 out of 20 attempts)

Don't get discouraged if your first attempts don't match pro results. They also went through iterations.

Final Thoughts

Here's what surprised me most after generating 2,000+ images: the best prompts aren't the most complex they're the most intentional.

You don't need to be a photographer to describe good lighting. You don't need to know every technical term. You need to clearly communicate your vision with specific details.

Start with the 4-part structure: Subject + Context + Style + Technical specs.

Copy prompts from this guide and modify them. Pay attention to what works and what doesn't on your specific platform. Build a personal library of successful formulas.

Most importantly: iterate. Your first attempt probably won't be perfect, and that's okay. This is part of the process.

The AI image generation space is moving incredibly fast. What works today might be outdated in six months. But the core principles clarity, specificity, and structure will always matter.

Now go create something. And when you nail that perfect image on your third try, you'll know exactly why it worked.