🧠 How to Write Better Prompts for AI Image Generation

Tips & Tricks to Get High-Quality AI Art

Why Prompt Writing Matters for AI Art

When it comes to tools like Midjourney, DALL·E, and Stable Diffusion, your prompt is everything. Think of it as the blueprint. A well-crafted prompt turns vague blobs into jaw-dropping masterpieces. Whether you're a hobbyist or building a brand, learning how to write prompts can dramatically improve your image results.

🔧 The Ultimate Prompt Formula: "Prompt Stack"

Structure your AI prompt using this proven format:

[Subject] + [Style] + [Setting] + [Mood] + [Lighting/Colour] + [Composition/Camera Angle]

✅ Example Prompt:
A ninja cat warrior in futuristic armour, glowing eyes, standing in a neon-lit alley, cinematic lighting, rainy night, wide-angle lens, anime style

🪄 7 Expert Tips for Writing Better AI Prompts

1. 🎯 Be Specific with Visual Details

Swap vague words for rich, descriptive ones:

• Use: “golden hour light” not “nice lighting”
• Use: “misty pine forest at dawn” not “forest”

This helps AI models generate more accurate and beautiful imagery.

2. 🎨 Include Artistic Styles

Styles guide the aesthetic of your AI art:

• watercolour, digital painting, oil on canvas, surrealism, Pixar style, vaporwave, cyberpunk, Studio Ghibli

Search term: "AI art style prompt ideas"

3. 🖌️ Reference Famous Artists (When Allowed)

Add “in the style of [artist name]” to direct the mood or texture:

• sci-fi city by H.R. Giger
• portrait in Van Gogh’s style

Use sparingly to avoid copyright conflicts.

4. 🕶️ Set the Scene & Mood

Include time of day, weather, lighting, and atmosphere:

• sunset lighting, misty background, foggy street, moonlit sky, soft glow

These cues add realism and depth.

5. 📷 Add Camera Angles or Composition Notes

Direct the AI like a cinematographer:

• macro shot, isometric view, close-up, top-down, rule of thirds, depth of field

Search-friendly phrasing: "best camera angles for AI art prompts"

6. 📐 Use the Right Aspect Ratio

Format your image for its destination:

• --ar 16:9 = YouTube or website banners
• --ar 1:1 = Instagram posts or profile pics
• --ar 9:16 = Stories, TikTok, mobile screens

7. ⚖️ Control Emphasis with Weights (Advanced)

In tools like Midjourney, you can control importance:

• "sunrise::2" vs "fog::0.5"
  This boosts one idea over another.

🚫 What to Avoid in Image Prompts

Avoid these common AI prompt mistakes:

• ❌ Too many styles in one prompt (confuses the model)
• ❌ Adjective overload (“awesome magical epic stunning amazing”)
• ❌ No separation between concepts (use commas or line breaks)

🛠️ Tools for Better AI Prompt Crafting

Want help generating smarter prompts?

• PromptHero – Top prompt examples by community
• Lexica – Searchable AI image library with prompt data
• Promptomania – Prompt builder for various AI tools

These are great for researching popular Midjourney prompts or finding inspiration by keyword.

📌 Final Thoughts: Practice Makes Prompt-Perfect

If you’re wondering how to write prompts for AI art that actually work, remember this: clarity is power. You're not just typing a few words—you’re directing an AI artist. With the right prompt, you can turn imagination into scroll-stopping visuals.

👉 Want more AI art tips and tutorials?
Visit CliffinKent.com and follow #CliffinKent for smart insights on AI for creators, solopreneurs, and curious minds.

🤔 Curious Reader Question:

What’s the strangest or most surprising image you've ever generated with AI?