Midjourney creates some of the most stunning AI art available. Here’s how to go from zero to creating gallery-worthy images.

What is Midjourney?

Midjourney is an AI image generator that creates images from text descriptions. Version 7 (released 2026) produces photorealistic images and artistic creations that are often indistinguishable from human-made art.

Getting Started

Step 1: Subscribe

Go to midjour.com and subscribe. Plans start at $10/month (Basic, 200 images).

Step 2: Access Midjourney

Use the web app at midjour.com or Discord. The web app is easier for beginners.

Step 3: Create Your First Image

Type a prompt in the imagine bar:

A cozy coffee shop interior, warm lighting, rainy day outside, watercolor style

Understanding Prompts

Basic Prompt Structure

[Subject] [Setting] [Style] [Lighting] [Camera]

Example:

A mountain cabin at sunset, aerial view, cinematic lighting, 35mm photography

Key Prompt Elements

Subject: What you want to see

  • “A golden retriever playing in snow”

Setting: Where/when

  • “in a Japanese garden during autumn”

Style: Artistic style

  • “oil painting”, “photorealistic”, “watercolor”, “anime”

Lighting: Mood lighting

  • “golden hour”, “dramatic lighting”, “soft diffused light”

Camera: Photography terms

  • “wide angle”, “macro”, “portrait lens”, “aerial view”

Pro Tips

1. Be Specific

Vague: “A cat” Specific: “A fluffy orange tabby cat sitting on a windowsill, watching rain, soft natural lighting, 85mm portrait lens”

2. Use Negative Prompts

Add --no to exclude elements:

A beautiful landscape --no buildings, people, cars

3. Control Aspect Ratios

  • --ar 16:9 for widescreen
  • --ar 1:1 for square
  • --ar 9:16 for vertical/phone

4. Use Style References

Upload an image as a style reference:

/imagine [uploaded image URL] a cityscape in this style

5. Iterate and Remix

Use the “Vary” button to create variations of images you like. Use “Remix” to change the prompt while keeping the composition.

Common Mistakes

  1. Too many words — Keep prompts concise (40-60 words is ideal)
  2. Being too vague — Specific details produce better results
  3. Ignoring aspect ratio — Match the ratio to your use case
  4. Not iterating — First result is rarely the best. Use Vary and Remix.

Best Prompt Formulas

Portrait

[Person description], [expression], [clothing], [background], [lighting], [camera]

Landscape

[Location], [time of day], [weather], [style], [mood], [camera angle]

Product

[Product], [setting], [lighting], [background], [angle], [style]

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Midjourney free?

No, plans start at $10/month for 200 images. There’s no free tier.

Can I sell Midjourney images?

Yes, if you have a paid plan. You own the commercial rights to your generated images.

How do I get better results?

Practice prompt writing, use specific details, iterate on results, and study what prompts others use.

Midjourney vs DALL-E?

Midjourney produces more artistic, aesthetically pleasing images. DALL-E is better at text in images and easier to use.