Ultimate Midjourney V6 Portrait Formula

Creating captivating portraits with Midjourney involves understanding and combining various elements to guide the AI effectively. With Midjourney V6, users now have enhanced control over language comprehension, making it easier to generate highly detailed and emotionally rich images.

V6’s improved ability to understand prompts allows for more precise adjustments in lighting, mood, and style, giving your portraits a professional and polished look.

To simplify this process, you can use the following prompt formula:

Setting + Subject Description + Emotion + Lighting + Angles + Pose + Gaze Direction + Style/Effect

This formula helps you structure your prompts by clearly specifying each component, ensuring detailed, vivid, and emotionally rich images. Each section of this guide will break down these components and provide examples of how to use them in your prompts.

Table of Contents

Setting the Scene: Kick-Start with a Portrait-Related Term

Studio Portraits in Midjourney

When you opt for a studio portrait, Midjourney uses professional lighting effects to mimic a meticulously set up studio, creating lifelike and high-quality images.

Studio portrait of a woman in an elegant black dress, intricate lace details, dramatic lighting with soft shadows, background with luxurious velvet drapes, high-definition textures –stylize 80 –style raw –ar 16:9 –v 6.0

Outdoor Portraits in Midjourney

Outdoor portraits take advantage of natural lighting to create compelling and vibrant images. Midjourney’s ability to blend character attire with environmental elements can produce stunning results.

Outdoor portrait of a young man standing in a sunflower field at sunrise, dew-covered petals, soft golden light casting long shadows, vibrant yellow and green hues, gentle morning mist in the background –stylize 70 –ar 2:3 –v 6.0 –style raw

Expanding Horizons

Don’t limit yourself to just studio and outdoor portraits. Midjourney allows you to explore a variety of specialized portrait types such as candid, surreal, glamour, black-and-white, historical, fantasy, high-fashion, romantic, ethereal, and fine art portraits.

Detailing the Scene: Crafting the Perfect Environment

Describing the Details

Start with a basic idea and gradually add more details to your prompts. Avoid going too deep initially and instead take a macro view to prepare Midjourney for the next steps.

Vintage pin-up model leaning against a classic 1950s jukebox, 1950s diner with checkerboard floors, vibrant pastel colors, playful smile and winking, retro aesthetic, softbox lighting highlighting the model, background with chrome bar stools and neon signs –stylize 90 –ar 16:9 –style raw –v 6.0

Describing the Background Setting

Balance the level of detail in your background descriptions to avoid confusion, especially in multi-theme scenarios. Test different levels of detail and adjust as necessary.

Tattooed musician standing in a vast desert with towering sandstone formations, late afternoon sun casting dramatic long shadows, golden light highlighting the textures of the sand and rock, electric guitar in hand, wind gently blowing through the musician’s hair, distant mountains under a clear blue sky –stylize 80 –ar 16:9 –style raw –v 6.0

Indoor and Outdoor Settings

Indoor Settings: Vary from studios to cozy cafes, sleek modern parlors, antique drawing rooms, or industrial lofts. You can manipulate lighting effects like soft ambient light, dramatic shadows, or warm candlelight to enhance the scene’s photorealism.

Elegant woman seated in an antique drawing room, richly decorated with Victorian-era furniture, candlelit ambiance creating soft ambient light, intricate wallpaper details, a grand fireplace with a roaring fire, the woman’s dress made of luxurious silk with detailed embroidery –stylize 60 –style raw –ar 4:5 –v 6.0

Outdoor Settings: Range from sandy beaches and mountains to bustling city skylines and tranquil countryside. Adjusting the time of day and weather conditions can subtly influence the portrait’s mood.

Couple walking hand-in-hand along a serene beach at sunset, gentle waves lapping at their feet, golden hour lighting casting a warm glow, soft shadows, a colorful sky with hues of orange, pink, and purple, footprints in the wet sand behind them, a distant lighthouse on a rocky outcrop –stylize 70 –style raw –ar 16:9 –v 6.0

Emotional Realism: Infusing Life into Your Portraits

Adding Emotional Keywords

Incorporating emotional keywords into your prompts can dramatically change the subject’s expressions and overall scene, setting the emotional tone for the entire image.

Full body shot of a female boxer in the ring, intense and focused expression, sweat glistening on her skin, dramatic spotlight highlighting her muscular form, gritty realism, monochromatic color scheme, background showing the dimly lit gym with an audience in shadow –stylize 50 –style raw –ar 2:3 –v 6.0

Synchronizing Emotion with Environment

Aligning the emotional tone with the setting and lighting creates an authentic and holistic effect. For instance, adding “overcast” to a melancholy scene intensifies the mood and affects character poses.

Melancholy woman sitting alone on a deserted beach, overcast sky with dark clouds, waves crashing gently in the background, her dress fluttering in the wind, distant seagulls flying, a sense of isolation and introspection –stylize 70 –style raw –ar 3:4 –v 6.0

Exploring Emotional Spectrum

Midjourney offers a wide array of mood descriptors. Experiment with these to add depth to your portraits.

For instance, a happy expression is suitable for positive and pleasant scenes, such as celebrations and happy memories.

Happy child running through a field of wildflowers, wide smile, eyes sparkling with joy, vibrant colors, soft sunlight, carefree and playful atmosphere –stylize 90 –ar 2:3 –style raw –v 6.0

Sadness can be conveyed through a downturned mouth, lowered eyes, and a dark facial expression. This works well for scenes of loss and mourning.

Man sitting alone on a park bench in the rain, head bowed, sad expression, raindrops on his coat, grey and somber atmosphere, fallen leaves scattered around –stylize 50 –style raw –ar 4:5 –v 6.0

Anger can be depicted with a furrowed brow, sharp eyes, and tightly closed mouth, perfect for conflict scenes.

Woman in a heated argument, furrowed brow, sharp eyes, clenched fists, tense atmosphere, background showing a chaotic room –stylize 70 –style raw –ar 3:4 –v 6.0

For a more relaxed vibe, use loose expressions, gentle eyes, and a relaxed body. This is ideal for quiet and comfortable scenes like vacations.

Young woman lounging in a hammock by the beach, gentle waves, sunset casting a warm glow, relaxed smile, eyes closed, serene and peaceful atmosphere –stylize 60 –style raw –ar 16:9 –v 6.0

Other emotions you can use include fun, excited, calm, anxiety, jealousy, and embarrassed. Each of these adds a different layer of depth to your portraits.

Mastering Lighting: The Secret Sauce of Photography

Lighting is a crucial element in photography, and Midjourney provides various options to manipulate it effectively. From natural to artificial lighting, each type offers unique possibilities to enhance your portraits.

Natural Light and Atmospheric Effects

Backlighting creates a dreamy, ethereal glow that can add depth and interest to your portraits.

Portrait of a young woman standing in a forest clearing, backlit by the setting sun, creating a halo effect around her hair, soft golden light filtering through the trees, serene and ethereal atmosphere –stylize 80 –ar 2:3 –v 6.0 –style raw

Golden Hour lighting infuses portraits with warm, positive light, perfect for dramatic scenes.

Couple embracing on a hillside at golden hour, warm sunlight casting long shadows, vibrant colors of the setting sun, background of rolling hills and distant mountains, romantic and timeless feel –stylize 70 –style raw –ar 16:9 –v 6.0

Blue Hour adds a tranquil, mysterious hue, ideal for serene scenes.

Portrait of a man standing by a calm lake at blue hour, soft blue tones reflecting on the water, mist rising from the surface, peaceful and contemplative mood –stylize 60 –ar 3:4 –style raw –v 6.0

Additional Lighting Techniques

Softbox Lighting creates even, diffused light that reduces harsh shadows, ideal for studio portraits.

Studio portrait of a model with softbox lighting, even illumination on the face, soft shadows, high-definition textures, clean white background, professional and polished look –stylize 60 –style raw –ar 2:3 –v 6.0

Rembrandt Lighting uses a small, triangular highlight on the cheek, giving a classic and dramatic look.

Rembrandt lighting on a male model’s face, dramatic shadows, distinct triangle of light on the cheek, dark background, intense and moody atmosphere –stylize 80 –style raw –ar 3:4 –v 6.0

Split Lighting divides the subject’s face into equal halves of light and shadow, adding intensity.

Split lighting on a female athlete, half of her face illuminated, the other half in shadow, intense focus in her eyes, dark and powerful mood, gym setting –stylize 70 –style raw –ar 2:3 –v 6.0

Butterfly Lighting positions the light source above and in front of the subject, creating a small shadow under the nose that resembles a butterfly.

Butterfly lighting on a fashion model, soft shadow under the nose, high cheekbones highlighted, elegant and glamorous look, studio setting –stylize 90 –style raw –ar 2:3 –v 6.0

Cinematic Lighting often involves multiple light sources and can include practical lights within the scene to enhance the mood and storytelling.

Cinematic portrait of a young man in a dimly lit room, practical lights like a desk lamp and neon signs, multiple light sources creating depth, dramatic and narrative-driven atmosphere –stylize 80 –style raw –ar 16:9 –v 6.0

These lighting techniques can transform your Midjourney portraits, adding depth, drama, and professional polish to your images. By experimenting with different lighting setups, you can find the perfect way to highlight your subject and convey the desired mood.

Playing with Angles: Creating Dramatic Impact

Changing the angle of the shot can transform the perception and impact of your portrait. Midjourney’s default eye-level viewpoint can be altered for more dramatic effects.

High and Low Perspectives

Top-Down Angle emphasizes vulnerability or adds a novel twist.

Downshot of a child playing with toys on a colorful rug, capturing the scene from above, vibrant colors and patterns, scattered toys creating a playful mess, soft afternoon light filtering through the window, sense of innocence and joy –stylize 70 –style raw –ar 3:4 –v 6.0

Elevated Perspective makes the subject appear taller and more commanding.

Ground shot of a powerful businesswoman standing in front of a skyscraper, looking up at her with a strong, confident posture, dramatic lighting highlighting her sharp suit, modern cityscape with reflective glass buildings, bustling urban environment, intense and commanding presence –stylize 80 –style raw –ar 9:16 –v 6.0

Dynamic Angles

Dutch Angle involves tilting the camera to create a sense of tension or unease.

Dutch angle shot of a detective in a dimly lit alley, shadows stretching across the cobblestone ground, intense expression on his face, trench coat billowing slightly in the wind, flickering streetlamp casting eerie light, dramatic and suspenseful atmosphere –stylize 60 –style raw –ar 4:5 –v 6.0

Worm’s Eye View gives a low angle shot, making the subject appear larger and more dominant.

Worm’s eye view of a towering tree in a dense forest, sunlight filtering through the leaves, creating a dappled light effect on the forest floor, roots sprawling out, lush green foliage, majestic and awe-inspiring perspective –stylize 50 –style raw –ar 2:3 –v 6.0

Bird’s Eye View captures a scene from above, providing a unique perspective.

Bird’s eye view of a bustling city market, vibrant stalls with colorful canopies, people moving through the narrow streets, various goods and produce on display, dynamic and energetic atmosphere, the hustle and bustle of daily life –stylize 70 –style raw –ar 16:9 –v 6.0

Unique Posing Prompts

Posing is a vital aspect of creating realistic and engaging images. Here are a few unique posing tips for generating images using Midjourney:

The Thoughtful Lean

This pose conveys deep thought and introspection.

Portrait of a young woman leaning against a window frame, hand on her chin, gazing outside thoughtfully, soft natural light illuminating her face, urban skyline in the background, calm and contemplative atmosphere –stylize 90 –style raw –ar 3:4 –v 6.0

The Dynamic Twirl

This pose captures movement and joy.

Full body shot of a girl twirling in a meadow, dress flowing around her, arms outstretched, hair caught in motion, bright sunlight, colorful wildflowers surrounding her, joyful and energetic mood –stylize 80 –style raw –ar 2:3 –v 6.0

The Confident Stride

This pose shows determination and forward motion.

Full body shot of a man walking confidently down a city street, mid-stride, briefcase in hand, wearing a sharp suit, skyscrapers and busy pedestrians in the background, determined and dynamic vibe –stylize 70 –style raw –ar 4:5 –v 6.0

The Reflective Gaze

This pose conveys contemplation and reflection.

Close-up of an elderly man with a reflective gaze, sitting by a fireplace, warm glow of the fire illuminating his face, deep lines and wrinkles adding character, cozy and nostalgic setting –stylize 60 –style raw –ar 3:4 –v 6.0

The Playful Jump

This pose captures fun and spontaneity.

Full body shot of a young boy jumping in the air, arms and legs spread out, laughing, bright blue sky with fluffy clouds in the background, vibrant green grass, playful and carefree atmosphere –stylize 90 –style raw –ar 2:3 –v 6.0

The Quiet Whisper

This pose suggests intimacy and secrecy.

Close-up of two friends, one whispering into the other’s ear, both with soft smiles, sitting in a cozy café, warm ambient lighting, intimate and friendly atmosphere –stylize 70 –style raw –ar 4:5 –v 6.0

The Victory Pose

This pose shows achievement and triumph.

Full body shot of a marathon runner crossing the finish line, arms raised in victory, sweat and determination on their face, crowd cheering in the background, bright sunlight, triumphant and exhilarating moment –stylize 80 –style raw –ar 16:9 –v 6.0

Each unique pose adds a different dimension to your portraits, enhancing their emotional impact and storytelling potential.

Gaze Direction: Enhancing Atmosphere and Depth

The direction of a character’s gaze can significantly affect the atmosphere and emotional depth of an image. Here are some tips on utilizing gaze direction in your prompts:

Looking Back

Looking back creates an introverted, deep atmosphere, allowing the viewer to feel the character’s contemplation or inner world.

Portrait of a woman looking back over her shoulder, standing on a deserted road at twilight, long shadows, distant mountains, contemplative and mysterious mood –stylize 60 –style raw –ar 3:4 –v 6.0

Looking Up

Looking up conveys positive emotions such as hope, longing, or surprise, and gives an impression of nobility and upward mobility.

Portrait of a young boy looking up at the night sky filled with stars, wide-eyed with wonder, soft moonlight illuminating his face, vast open field background, sense of awe and curiosity –stylize 50 –style raw –ar 3:4 –v 6.0

Looking Down

Looking down shows introspection, humility, or sadness, bringing a sense of introversion and deep thought.

Close-up of a man looking down, shadows cast over his face, sitting in a dimly lit room, hands clasped together, deep in thought, somber and reflective atmosphere –stylize 80 –style raw –ar 3:4 –v 6.0

Looking at the Camera

Looking at the camera enhances the compulsion and realism of the image and creates a strong emotional connection with the viewer.

Portrait of a woman looking directly at the camera, intense and piercing gaze, soft studio lighting, plain background, compelling and engaging presence –stylize 70 –style raw –ar 2:3 –v 6.0

Looking Away from the Camera

Looking away from the camera enhances the stillness and depth of the image, the character seems to be thinking or looking away, adding depth and storytelling to the image.

Side profile of a man looking away from the camera, standing on a cliff edge, wind blowing through his hair, expansive ocean view in the background, sense of freedom and contemplation –stylize 90 –style raw –ar 2:3 –v 6.0

Gazing into the Distance

Gazing into the distance adds a sense of longing and wonder.

Portrait of a young girl gazing into the distance, standing in a sunflower field, golden light of the setting sun, dreamy and hopeful expression, vast expanse of flowers in the background –stylize 80 –style raw –ar 16:9 –v 6.0

Utilizing different gaze directions can add layers of meaning and emotional depth to your portraits, enhancing the storytelling and visual interest.

Invoke the Masters: Citing Photographers in Midjourney

Now, here’s a pro tip that could elevate your Midjourney projects: citing renowned photographers in your prompt. This can magically weave their signature styles into your creations, making each portrait a unique piece of art.

Annie Leibovitz: The Drama

Annie Leibovitz is almost synonymous with dramatic portraits. Known for her bold, emotional, and highly stylized work, Leibovitz employs a perfect blend of dramatic lighting and poses. If you want to evoke intense emotion, she’s your go-to.

Portrait of an actor dressed as a Shakespearean character, wearing a richly detailed costume, standing on a darkened stage with a spotlight highlighting his intense expression, dramatic and moody atmosphere, Annie Leibovitz style, theatrical setting with deep shadows and vibrant colors –stylize 90 –style raw –ar 2:3 –v 6.0

Vivian Maier: The Street Virtuoso

Vivian Maier captures the untamed essence of everyday life in her street photography. Her ability to immortalize the raw, fleeting moments of daily existence is a craft you can tap into for a Midjourney creation.

Young woman walking through a bustling market, candid street photography style, captured mid-step with a thoughtful expression, vibrant market stalls filled with colorful fruits and vegetables, natural lighting, busy urban environment, Vivian Maier style –stylize 50 –style raw –ar 4:5 –v 6.0

Richard Avedon: The Emotion Whisperer

If clean, crisp portraits are what you’re aiming for, look no further than Richard Avedon. Best known for his ability to capture the personalities and emotions of usually high-profile subjects, an Avedon-inspired portrait promises to be a compelling narrative.

Portrait of a renowned chef, standing in a minimalist kitchen, wearing a pristine white chef’s coat, holding a beautifully plated dish, clean white background, high contrast lighting, intense focus on the chef’s expression, Richard Avedon style –stylize 60 –style raw –ar 3:4 –v 6.0

David LaChapelle: The Pop Culture Alchemist

For something a bit more eclectic, you might consider David LaChapelle. Known for his hyper-realistic, meticulously crafted, and often provocative photos, LaChapelle fuses the glamorous and the everyday in vibrant hues.

A rock star lounging in an opulent, baroque-style room filled with gold accents and luxurious furnishings, wearing a flamboyant outfit with sequins and feathers, vibrant colors, over-the-top glamor, David LaChapelle style, surreal and fantastical elements –stylize 80 –style raw –ar 16:9 –v 6.0

Hiroshi Sugimoto: The Conceptual Innovator

Though Hiroshi Sugimoto is not mainly known for portraits, his conceptual work is a treasure trove of inspiration. Themes like time, impermanence, and human perception are his playground. A Midjourney portrait inspired by Sugimoto can offer fine gradations of light and dark, adding a complex layer of depth and atmosphere.

Portrait of a dancer mid-performance, captured in a minimalist setting with a soft, diffused light, the dancer’s movement creating a ghostly blur, ethereal and timeless quality, Hiroshi Sugimoto style, serene and contemplative background –stylize 70 –style raw –ar 3:4 –v 6.0

By invoking the styles of these renowned photographers, you can add a unique artistic touch to your Midjourney portraits, elevating them to new levels of creativity and expression.

Conclusion

Creating captivating portraits with Midjourney involves understanding and utilizing a range of techniques, from setting up the scene and infusing emotions to mastering lighting and playing with angles.

Using the ultimate prompt formula: