Midjourney has become one of the most popular AI tools for generating visually stunning images and digital artwork. From concept art to logos and photorealistic renders, its generative capabilities have transformed how designers, marketers, and 3D artists visualize ideas. However, one of the most frequently asked questions is: Can Midjourney create 3D models?
In this article, we’ll explore what Midjourney can and cannot do when it comes to 3D modeling, how you can use it as part of a 3D workflow, and what alternatives or companion tools you can integrate with it.
What is Midjourney?
Midjourney is an AI-powered image generation platform that operates primarily through Discord, allowing users to create detailed, artistic visuals from text descriptions. Launched in 2022, it uses advanced diffusion models to produce everything from photorealistic portraits to abstract concepts. As of 2025, Midjourney’s latest versions (like V6 and its video model) emphasize high-resolution outputs, style consistency, and even real-time video generation that simulates 3D movement. However, its core focus remains on 2D imagery, making it ideal for concept art rather than direct 3D model exports.
Key features include:
- Text-to-Image Generation: Craft images with prompts like “a cyberpunk cityscape in neon lights.”
- Image Variations and Upscaling: Refine outputs for higher detail.
- Style References: Use existing images to influence new creations.
- Community-Driven: Access via Discord servers for collaborative inspiration.
Midjourney’s strength lies in its artistic flair, but for 3D needs, it serves as a foundation for further processing.
Can Midjourney Make 3D Models?
The short answer is No — Midjourney cannot directly create 3D models.
It generates 2D images based on text prompts, meaning the output is purely visual (like a rendered scene, illustration, or concept art). There are no editable meshes, polygons, or 3D geometry in the files Midjourney produces.
That said, Midjourney is incredibly valuable in the 3D design pipeline because it helps artists conceptualize, visualize, and inspire their models before 3D modeling even begins.
How Midjourney Helps 3D Artists
Although Midjourney isn’t able to create 3D designs, it serves an important pre-production function in the creative process. Here’s how professionals use it:
1. Concept Development
3D modelers utilize Midjourney to create concepts for environments, characters, vehicles, products, and other objects. These images function as visual blueprints that help in the process of modeling using software such as Blender, Maya, or ZBrush.
2. Material and Texture References
Midjourney is able to create high-quality surface textures like fabrics, metals, or even stone. These textures could be used as materials of reference for artists when making UV maps or implementing shaders within 3D software.
3. Lighting and Composition Ideas
Midjourney can be used to experiment with various lighting configurations as well as camera angles and compositions, before re-creating the same in 3D. This can speed up the process of creative decision-making.
4. AI-Assisted Storyboarding
In the case of 3D games or animation, Midjourney will quickly design storyboards or mockups of scenes, which provide a glimpse of what the final 3D renderings could appear.
Midjourney’s Capabilities in AI Art Generation
Midjourney shines in generating 2D assets that inspire 3D work. For instance, it can create orthographic views (front, side, top) of characters or objects, which are essential for 3D modeling. Users often generate textures, concept designs, and multi-angle references to feed into 3D software like Blender or Rhino.
Recent updates, such as the V1 Video Model introduced in June 2025, allow for dynamic visuals where users can “move around in 3D space” within generated environments. This creates the illusion of 3D exploration through video, but it doesn’t output actual 3D files like .OBJ or .STL. Instead, it produces animated sequences that can inform 3D animations.
In summary, while Midjourney enhances 3D workflows indirectly, it lacks built-in 3D export features.
How to Convert Midjourney Images to 3D Models
Converting Midjourney images to 3D involves AI tools that interpret 2D visuals into meshes. Popular methods include single-image conversion for quick results or multi-view inputs for accuracy. Here’s an overview of the process:
- Generate Images in Midjourney: Create a base image or set of views (front, back, side) using prompts like “orthographic view of a fantasy sword, detailed, high resolution.”
- Prepare Images: Clean up outputs for better conversion—remove backgrounds or enhance contrast.
- Use Conversion Tools: Upload to AI platforms that generate 3D models.
- Refine and Export: Edit in software like Blender and export for use.
Common challenges include inconsistencies in views, which can lead to distorted models. Tools like photogrammetry software (e.g., Meshroom) can help with multi-image setups.
Popular Tools for Image-to-3D Conversion
Several AI tools specialize in turning 2D images into 3D models, making them perfect companions for Midjourney:
- Tripo AI: Excels in multi-view generation and texturing. Free tier available; supports exports like GLB and OBJ.
- CSM.ai (3D.CSM.AI): Quick conversions for characters and objects; integrates well with Maya or Blender.
- Meshy AI: Focuses on game-ready assets with auto-rigging.
- Ilumine AI (InstaVerse): Great for scene-building from Midjourney landscapes.
- PartPacker or Rhino: For stylized objects; combine with Midjourney for product design.
These tools often offer free trials, with premium features for high-fidelity outputs.
Step-by-Step Tutorial: Using Tripo AI with Midjourney
Based on proven workflows, here’s how to create 3D models using Tripo AI (as detailed in community guides).
- Generate Base Image in Midjourney: Use a prompt like “cute cat adventurer, detailed, isometric view” to create your 2D asset.
- Prepare with Nano Banana (or Similar): Use Google’s Gemini or another AI to create a matcap (texture-free) version and multi-views (front, left, right, back). Change backgrounds to high-contrast colors if needed to avoid artifacts.
- Access Tripo AI: Visit studio.tripo3d.ai and select “Build and Refine” for control.
- Upload and Generate: Input your matcap images; choose multi-view mode for accuracy. Generate the base mesh.
- Apply Texturing: Upload the original Midjourney image to wrap textures onto the model.
- Refine: Use segmentation, retopology, or auto-rigging for edits.
- Export: Download in desired format for Blender, Unity, or 3D printing.
Tips: For abstract shapes, skip problematic views. This workflow yields professional results for characters, sculptures, and more.
Alternatives to Midjourney for Direct 3D Model Generation
If you need native 3D AI, consider:
- Stable Diffusion with 3D Extensions: Plugins like Depth Maps for basic 3D.
- Luma AI or Spline: Text-to-3D models directly.
- Adobe Firefly 3D: Integrated with Photoshop for seamless workflows.
- ChatGPT with DALL-E: For prompts, but pair with tools like Meshy.
These options bypass 2D-to-3D conversion but may lack Midjourney’s artistic style.
Pros and Cons of Using Midjourney for 3D Workflows
Pros:
- Rapid concept iteration.
- High artistic quality for textures.
- Cost-effective (subscription-based).
- Community resources for prompts.
Cons:
- Requires additional tools and steps.
- Potential inconsistencies in multi-view generations.
- Not optimized for technical accuracy.
- Learning curve for integrations.
Overall, it’s a powerful hybrid approach for creative professionals.
Final Thoughts
Although Midjourney isn’t able to make direct 3D models but its revolutionary approach has transformed the idea and pre-visualization process for 3D design. Combining it with the tools of text-to-3D AI as well as conventional modeling programs, designers transform flat images into lively real 3D assets more quickly than ever before.
At this point consider Midjourney in the role of the artificial art manager -an instrument that can help you imagine ideas that you then create with the 3D modeler software.
FAQs
Can Midjourney directly generate 3D models?
No, Midjourney specializes in 2D images and videos. However, you can convert its outputs to 3D using tools like Tripo AI or CSM.ai.
What are the best tools to convert Midjourney images to 3D?
Top choices include Tripo AI for detailed meshes, Meshy AI for game assets, and Ilumine AI for scenes.
How do I create consistent views in Midjourney for 3D conversion?
Use prompts specifying “orthographic front view,” “side view,” etc., and the –ar parameter for aspect ratios. Refine with variations.
Is there a free way to turn Midjourney images into 3D models?
Yes, tools like Tripo AI offer free tiers, and open-source options like Meshroom work for photogrammetry-based conversions.
Can I use Midjourney 3D models for commercial projects?
Yes, but check licensing for the conversion tools. Midjourney allows commercial use for paid subscribers.
What’s the future of 3D in Midjourney?
While not confirmed, updates like the video model hint at deeper 3D-like features, potentially including direct exports in future versions.