Image generation prompts work best when they describe the picture the way a photographer or illustrator would: the subject, the setting, the style, the lighting, and the framing. This guide gives you a formula and vocabulary that work across Midjourney, ChatGPT Images, Adobe Firefly, and other image generators, plus conversational editing prompts for tools that support them.
Part of the AI Prompt Library. Last updated September 2026. DALL-E has been retired; in ChatGPT, image generation is now ChatGPT Images.
The Formula
Subject + setting + style + lighting + composition + mood. For example: “A golden retriever puppy (subject) in a sunny garden (setting), watercolor illustration (style), soft morning light (lighting), close-up (composition), joyful (mood).”
Useful Vocabulary
| Element | Words to Try |
|---|---|
| Style | editorial photography, flat vector, watercolor, 3D render, line art, isometric |
| Lighting | soft window light, golden hour, studio lighting, moody side light, neon |
| Composition | close-up, wide shot, overhead, flat lay, centered, rule of thirds |
| Mood | calm, energetic, luxurious, playful, minimal |
Example Prompts
An isometric illustration of a small online store workflow: laptop, packages, and delivery van, bright flat colors, white background.
A realistic photo of a team meeting in a bright modern office, diverse team, candid moment, natural light, wide shot.
A minimalist poster with the words “Grand Opening” in bold sans-serif type, confetti shapes, cream and red color palette.
Editing Prompts
Tools such as ChatGPT Images and Photoshop let you edit by description:
- “Keep everything the same but change the background to a beach at sunset.”
- “Make the lighting warmer and remove the person on the left.”
- “Extend the image to a wide banner format.”
Which Tool for Which Job
- Text in images: ChatGPT Images or Ideogram.
- Artistic quality: Midjourney.
- Commercial work in Adobe apps: Adobe Firefly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do image prompts work the same in every tool?
Descriptive prompts transfer well. Tool-specific parameters, such as Midjourney’s –ar, do not.
How do I get text right in AI images?
Put the exact words in quotation marks and use a tool known for text rendering, such as ChatGPT Images or Ideogram.
Can I use AI images commercially?
Usually on paid plans, subject to each tool’s terms. Avoid real people, brands, and artists’ names.