Stable Diffusion is an AI system that generates images from text prompts. Crafting effective prompts is key to getting good results, but can be challenging. This article provides prompt examples and tips to help you create better Stable Diffusion prompts.
What makes a good prompt?
A good prompt clearly describes the desired image while providing enough detail and context. Key elements include:
- Clear description of the subject/scene
- Artistic style or medium
- Imagery attributes like lighting, angle/framing, color scheme etc.
- References to specific artists/works (if aiming for a particular style)
Prompt structure
Though prompts can vary in structure, a basic framework is:
[Subject], [Style/Medium], [Attributes], [Artistic References]
Like:
A still life painting by Paul Cézanne of a bowl of fruit, soft lighting, vibrant colors
Let’s explore prompt examples for different applications.
Scenic Landscape Prompts
Landscapes let you create sweeping vistas. Some prompt ideas:
Misty redwood forest in autumn, epic fantasy landscape, dynamic lighting, by Thomas Kinkade
Japanese zen garden with raked sand and stone lanterns, soft pastel coloring, by Hiroshige
Tips:
- Define time of day, weather, season to set lighting/atmosphere
- Use specific landscape elements (trees, rivers, structures)
- Reference real locations or fictional worlds depending on goals
Character Portrait Prompts
Imagining original characters? Portrait prompts bring them to life.
An elf warrior princess in armor, intricate detailing, by Ivan Aivazovsky
Close up portrait of a steampunk inventor tinkering with a pocketwatch, soft studio lighting, by J.C. Leyendecker
Tips:
- Describe physical attributes, clothing/costumes, props etc.
- Specify pose, angle, cropping to frame the subject
- Name specific artists to match style/technique
Concept Art Prompts
Concept art helps envision objects, environments and more:
Futuristic cyborg armor designs, detailed render, concept art by Kekai Kotaki
Ornate gothic clocktower exterior, establishing shot, epic lighting, matte painting by Feng Zhu
Tips:
- Use film/game terms like “establishing shot” or “key art”
- References specific artists known for relevant styles
- Add “concept art”, “detailed render” etc to get polished results
Abstract Creative Prompts
Go beyond the literal with abstract and creative prompts:
Cosmic gas clouds in shades of purple, swirling textures, by Gustav Klimt
Fractal geometry patterns forming an infinite maze, hyperdetailed, by M.C. Escher
Tips:
- Describe textures, shapes and patterns
- Use vivid colors or color combinations
- Reference artists known for abstraction like Klimt
Prompt Sets for Consistent Style
To maintain a consistent style across a set of generated images:
Collection of 12 fantasy landscape oil paintings with soaring mountains, old stone ruins, mystical lighting and mood, by a master painter in the style of Thomas Kinkade
Series of 6 character portraits depicting a pirate crew, hyper detailed intricate old school engraving style monochrome ink drawings by master etcher in the style of Gustave Doré
Tips:
- Specify number of outputs needed
- Use consistent stylistic keywords throughout prompt set
- Name a specific master artist to match style and technique
Useful Websites
- PromptHero – Search and browse top Stable Diffusion prompts
- Lexica – Public library of AI-generated images and prompts
- Stable Diffusion Webui – Popular web UI for Stable Diffusion
With practice, you can learn to write prompts tailored to your creative goals. Start simple, analyze what works and iterate. Use these examples to inform your own prompt writing.