How to Create Ghibli-Style Images
Studio Ghibli is known for its stunningly beautiful animation, atmospheric worlds, and moving narratives. If Ghibli art philosophy inspires your creative style and you want to make Ghibli-like images, this guide will teach you how to achieve the same style digitally, or using AI-powered tools.
Table of Contents
1. Understanding the Ghibli Art Style
Before we start creating, we want to figure out the process that makes a Ghibli image special:
Soft, painterly textures — Inspired by traditional hand-drawn animation with watercolor-like backdrops.
Rich color palettes – Bright and warm colors with pastel undertones for that homely essence
Lush, detailed environments – Usually nature, quaint towns, or whimsical fantasy locales.
Playful characters – Round bodies, large expressive features, and simple but effective emotions.
Ghibli style using digital art software
If you want to draw and paint your art digitally, here is how to achieve the Ghibli look:
Stage 1: Alight Sketch of the Composition
If you work digitally, use programs like Photoshop, Procreate or Krita.
Begin with rough sketches of the characters and worlds.
Make sure all lines are soft and organic — not stark geometric shapes.
Step Two: Background Paint
Ghibli backgrounds are meaty with detail. Banish the white background, set a base colour, and gradually build textures.
Use soft brushes for watercolor effect.
Add warmth through lighting and depth with atmospheric perspective.
Step 3: Adding Characters
Use simple rounded characters with expressive eyes.
Apply soft shadow and highlight details to integrate them convincingly into the environment.
Add movement with flowing hair, clothing, or floating quarters from elements like leaves.
Step 4: Final Touches
Use soft glows and tweak color grading for a more ethereal feel.
Add subtle textures using overlay layers.
AI Generates Ghibli-Style Image
If you aren’t an artist, or if you just want the quickest way to create Ghibli-esque images, AI tools can step in to fill in the gaps, too.
AI Tools to Use:
MidJourne – (Produces beautiful anime or painterly art if you know the right prompts.)
Stable Diffusion – Open-source AI capable of making custom Ghibli-style art.
Dream by Wombo – Fast and fun AI art generator
How to Use AI for Ghibli Art Or How to Create Ghibli-Style Images
Choose the Right Prompt
For example, “Studio Ghibli style illustration of a cozy forest with a small cottage, warm lighting, soft watercolor tones.”
Select the Right Model
Refine with Editing
AI pictures might require some adjustment. Photoshop edit color and somewhere details
Fusing automation with human intervention
AI can create a skeleton, but you can do refinements on individual aspects.
Prepare characters with ideal facial expressions or background textures using this digital painting technique.
Modify the color palette for signature Ghibli warmth.
Inspiration & Practice
Practice individual shots inspired by My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, Princess Mononoke, etc.
Learn and practice painting from reference images.
Play with light and perspective to create more depth.
Conclusion
How to Composite Images in the Spirit of Studio Ghibli — Making Studio Ghibli Images are very involved with artistry, attention to detail, and creative thinking. Regardless of whether you want to use traditional digital painting techniques or make use of AI tools, personalizing every piece will truly make your work your own. Start creating and bring your own magical Ghibli worlds to life!
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