Instead of writing prompts from scratch, upload visual references (like a mood board) to ChatGPT. Ask it to describe the visual qualities and language of the images, then use that output as a detailed prompt for AI image generators to replicate the desired style.

Avoid writing long, paragraph-style prompts from the start as they are difficult to troubleshoot. Instead, begin with a condensed, 'boiled down' prompt containing only core elements. This establishes a working baseline, making it easier to iterate and add details incrementally.

Instead of accepting default AI designs, proactively source superior design elements. Use pre-vetted Google Font combinations for typography and find specific MidJourney 'style reference' codes on social platforms like X to generate unique, high-quality images that match your desired aesthetic.

Instead of random prompting, break down any desired photo into its fundamental components like shot type, lighting, camera, and lens. Controlling these variables gives you precise, repeatable results and makes iteration faster, as you know exactly which element to adjust.

The initial phase of prompting shouldn't aim for a perfect image. Instead, the goal is to generate quickly and analyze the results to understand how the AI is interpreting your inputs (mood board, prompts, s-refs). This diagnostic step is crucial for efficient iteration.

Midjourney's mood board feature can average out the aesthetics of multiple images, leading to generic results. For more precise control, use individual images as style references (`s-refs`). This allows the model to pull more distinct and impactful stylistic elements.

To get superior results from image generators like Midjourney, structure prompts around three core elements: the subject (what it is), the setting (where it is, including lighting), and the style. Defining style with technical photographic terms yields better outcomes than using simple adjectives.

Leverage culturally significant terms like 'Vogue,' 'Dazed editorial,' or specific camera models as 'cheat codes' in your prompts. These references are packed with implicit information about style, lighting, and composition, allowing you to convey a complex aesthetic to the AI without writing lengthy descriptions.

Go beyond creating pretty pictures. The real power is using an AI to reason through the logic of visual communication. Prompt it to determine the best way to visualize a concept (e.g., flowchart vs. 2x2 matrix) and explain the trade-offs, turning it into a tool for strategic communication.