Learning How to utilize images as references in Midjourney? will dramatically enhance the results you get when you want the generated image to be in line with the visual style, composition, and character of an image.
Midjourney offers a variety of ways to make use of your own photos: Image Prompts, Style References, as well as Omni Reference. They are used for different purposes, so selecting the appropriate reference format is more crucial than just uploading a picture.
Quick Summary
Utilizing reference photos in MidJourney lets you direct AI-generated images by using an existing photograph.
- Image Prompt: It influences composition and content, along with visual and textual elements.
- Style Reference: Transmits the look of colors, aesthetics, and style.
- Omni Reference: Aids in bringing a character into a new setting.
- The best outcomes: Use a clear photo of a reference with a specific text request.
- Change strength: You can fine-tune the degree to which the image reference will affect your final picture.
- Update to Version 7: Omni Reference replaces the earlier Character Reference workflow.
Bottom Line: Choose the reference type based on whether you prefer to manage the quality, style, or even the matter in the MidJourney image.
What Are Reference Photos in MidJourney?
Reference photos are pictures you supply to Midjourney to influence the development of a new generation. Based on the type of reference, Midjourney can use the image to help guide the composition, content, color, visual style, characters, or objects in the final image.
Three main choices are:
- Image Prompt: The Image Prompt influences content composition, visuals, and other elements.
- Style Referencing: Transfers the visual appearance and style of images.
- Omni Reference: It helps place an individual, object, character, vehicle, or other creature from a reference image in an entirely new scene.
The main difference with a reference photo is typically information, not a request to duplicate the exact image of the original.
Which MidJourney Reference Type Should You Use?
Selecting the best tool will be the initial step.
| Reference Type | Best For | Main Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Image Prompt | Composition, subject, colors | Influences the overall content |
| Style Reference | Art direction and aesthetics | Matches the visual style |
| Omni Reference | People and objects | Carries a character or object into a new image |
For instance, if you have a picture of a city, and you want an image that has the same composition, you can make use of the Image Prompt.
If you are a fan of the lighting, color scheme, and artistic style of a photograph, make use of the style reference. Style Reference.
If you’d like the same object or person to be seen in a different scene, Omni Reference is the most common choice for V7.
How to Use Reference Photos in MidJourney?
Step 1: Choose the Right Reference Photo
Start with a clear photo that contains the information you need for Midjourney to use.
The best reference photos typically contain:
- A simple subject
- Good lighting
- Minimal visual clutter
- A distinctive composition
- Resolution sufficient
- The subject clearly distinguished itself from the background
If, for instance, you’re looking to design a new image based on an individual’s appearance, pick an image in which the face is clear.
If you wish to change composition, pick an image whose framing and arrangement match the look you’d like to achieve.
Step 2: Upload Your Photo to MidJourney
If you visit the Midjourney website, click on the Imagine bar and click on your image.
It is possible to upload a new image or upload an existing one from your library of uploaded images. Midjourney allows uploads of images that are up to 10MB.
After uploading the photo, you can insert it in the appropriate section of your reference.
Midjourney’s web interface lets you utilize an uploaded photo as the basis for an Image Prompt or Style Reference, as well as an Omni Reference.
Step 3: Add Your Text Prompt
Don’t base your decisions on the photo you have referenced.
What do you really want Midjourney to accomplish?
For instance:
Reference photo and prompt:
Cinematic portrait of a person walking along an overcast Tokyo street at night. Real-time photographs, subtle reflections, low depth of field
Your prompt text should be describing what you want to see in the photo’s final version instead of simply giving instructions to Midjourney to modify the photo used as a reference.
Midjourney specifically recommends mixing images from reference with simple text prompts to explain details not included in the images.
How to Use an Image Prompt in MidJourney?
Image Prompts are useful when you want to influence the composition, colors, or content. An image prompt can be useful if you require an image that can influence composition, content, color scheme, or general direction.
Step-by-step
- Upload your reference image.
- Add it as an Image Prompt.
- Write a descriptive text prompt.
- Incorporate any parameters that are required.
- Create the image.
- Then compare the results with your own reference.
- Change the prompt’s or image’s weight if required.
For instance:
[reference image modern mountain retreat with a vast valley, architecture photography early morning fog, soft shades
Midjourney describes how Image Prompts are intended to create new ideas rather than replicate the image exactly.
How to Control Image Prompt Strength?
Midjourney has its users with the Image Weight ( –iw ) parameter to determine how strongly an Image Prompt affects the outcome.
For versions of V7 as well as V8.1 images, the default value is 1, and the range is from 3 to 0.
Example:
future-oriented luxury resort located in the mountains — iw 2
A higher weight on the image will give the reference more influence, and a lower weight lets the prompt text play a bigger part.
Do not automatically apply the maximum value. Try different weights until you find the equilibrium between your reference and prompt that appears good.
How to Use Style Reference in MidJourney?
Make use of the Style Reference to avoid having Midjourney imitate an image or subject in the photograph; instead, you’d like to borrow its visually appealing language.
This could include elements like:
- Color palette
- Lighting
- Texture
- The overall aesthetic
- The artful treatment
- Visual environment
In Discord, Style References are used with the “-sref” parameter, followed by the image URL.
For instance:
luxurious fashion portraits studio photography –sref image_url
The photo you choose for reference should reflect the style you desire; the text prompt should define the topic.
Use case examples
Imagine you come across a photo with stunning soft lighting and bold color editing.
You can use the photo to serve as a style reference and prompt:
Modern luxury watches set on a marble tabletop, quality photography of the product
The image that is created can take on the character of the source without the need for the same subject.
How to Use a Photo of a Person in MidJourney?
If you aim to put a person in the reference image in a new setting, Omni Reference is the right tool for you, and it is included in Midjourney version 7.
Omni Reference allows you to make use of a reference image that contains an individual, a vehicle, a character, or another non-human animal in a brand new design. It works with V7.
On Discord, use:
–oref IMAGE_URL
Only one picture can be used by Omni Reference.
For instance:
professional cinematic portrait of this individual standing in a contemporary Tokyo street, in the evening rain, real-life photography –oref IMAGE_URL
The text prompt is crucial since it defines the current surroundings, clothing, lighting, composition, and other elements.
How to Control Omni Reference Strength?
Omni Reference provides the Omni Weight ( –ow ) parameter.
The known range of documented values is 1- 1000, with the default value of 100. Midjourney recommends not exceeding 400 unless you’re using an extremely high stylize setting because higher values can result in unexpected outcomes.
Example:
cinematic portrait of an urban futuristic setting or IMAGE_URL
On the Midjourney site, you can find the comparable option called the Omni Strength slider.
Can You Combine Multiple Reference Photos?
Yes, however, the method is dependent on the type of reference.
Midjourney’s Image Prompt system allows multiple images to affect the generation. You can combine multiple Image Prompts, with and without text. You can also mix images and text prompts.
It is also possible to combine Image Prompts and style References or Omni References within supported workflows.
For instance, you can employ:
- One image to illustrate the subject
- One image to illustrate the visual style
- Text that describes the final environment
It is usually more efficient than trying to create one photo to convey all the information.
How to Use Reference Photos in MidJourney on Discord?
The workflow may differ on Discord.
To get An Image prompt, copy your image URL at the start of the prompt.
In order to use the Fashion Reference For Style Reference, refer to:
–sref IMAGE_URL
To access an Omni Reference, use:
–oref IMAGE_URL
Midjourney notifies you that the images stored on your computer must be hosted on the internet to gain an acceptable URL for images when using Discord.
The site is usually more user-friendly for novices because you can upload photos immediately and associate them with the right reference type.
How to Get Better Results From Reference Photos?
Reference images are best used when you view them as visual guidelines and not as complete instructions.
1. Make sure to use a clear image
Avoid blurry, dark pictures or images that are heavily compressed if the essential details must be easily identifiable.
2. Make sure you match the aspect ratio
Midjourney suggests cropping the image reference to match the dimensions of your final photo if employing Image Prompts.
3. Be sure to keep the prompt specific
Instead of:
Improve it.
Try:
Cinematic editorial portraits, soft light from the window, neutral outfit, low depth of field, luxurious magazine photography
4. Don’t overburden the prompt
Give Midjourney the most important details and let Midjourney handle its interpretation of the information visually.
5. Adjust the strength of reference
If the result produced barely matches the reference you want, then increase the image weight or Omni weight.
When the source is determining the outcome too much, decrease the strength.
6. Make sure you use the correct type of reference
This is among the most important differences between unsuccessful and successful workflows.
Want style? Use Style Reference.
Want content/composition? Use Image Prompt.
Do you want to find a person or an object? Use Omni Reference in V7.
Image Prompt vs Style Reference vs Omni Reference
One simple method of remembering the difference is to:
Image Prompt = Which is the factor that will affect this image?
Style Reference What should it look like?
Omni Reference: What individual or object should appear?
This distinction averts a common error: making use of the term Style Reference when you actually are trying to keep an individual’s identity, or using the Image Prompt when your primary intention is to convey your artistic taste.
What Changed From Character Reference to Omni Reference?
Older Midjourney tutorials usually contain character reference ( –cref ).
This information could be confusing if you’re using V7.
Midjourney’s latest documentation describes Omni Reference as the replacement for V7 of Character Reference. Omni Reference expands the concept beyond characters to encompass vehicles, objects, and various other subjects.
This is a crucial difference to note when you follow older tutorials.
What About MidJourney V8.2?
Midjourney’s current documentation contains V8.2 along with V7; however, the reference image features aren’t identical between versions.
In particular, Omni Reference is a V7-specific feature that is supported by Omni Reference, and Image Prompts and Style References are available across all documented versions currently in use.
This means that you must verify which version of the model the tutorial is using prior to using its parameters.
A tutorial that demonstrates:
–cref
could be referring to an earlier Character Reference workflow.
For V7, the equivalent feature is:
–oref
Also Read - Midjourney V8 Alpha: Key Features, Rendering Speed, and Prompt Controls
Common Mistakes: When Using MidJourney Reference Images?
Using the Wrong Reference Type
The most frequent mistake is to treat every image reference identically.
Style Reference isn’t designed to keep the person’s exact appearance in a photograph, and the Image Prompt isn’t specifically designed to convey only the aesthetic style.
Expecting an Exact Copy
Midjourney discusses Image Prompts as an inspiration to create new ideas, not as a method of reproducing the source exactly.
If you require precise modifications to an image you already have, the Midjourney editor is the best process.
Ignoring the Text Prompt
The image reference doesn’t substitute for the prompt written.
The prompt you provide should describe the environment, setting, lighting, composition, as well as any other details you would like to see included in your final image.
Using Excessive Reference Weight
A greater influence on reference isn’t necessarily more beneficial.
High Omni Reference weights can lead to unpredictability, especially when combined with high stylization.
Following Outdated Tutorials
Midjourney’s reference systems have changed over time. For instance, V7 replaced Character Reference with Omni Reference.
Always verify the version of the model and the current documentation prior to using any older model parameter.
Reference Photo Prompt Examples
Product Reference
Premium wireless headphones with the minimalist concrete desk, soft studio lighting, luxurious product photography –oref Image_URL
Style Reference
modern luxury hotel interiors architectural photography with soft natural light –sref Image_URL
Composition Reference
An electric car that’s futuristic, driving through a mountain highway at sunrise. Cinematic photography
Using the photo of the desired composition, with the desired composition photo added to the Image Prompt.
Character Reference
Cinematic image of the same person walking down an icy Tokyo road at night. realistic photography –oref Image_URL –ow 150
These examples illustrate the idea: the reference establishes visual guidance, whereas the text prompt details the image that is being shown.
Can You Use Someone Else’s Photo as a MidJourney Reference?
Technically, Midjourney permits users to use images for reference purposes; however, you must think about copyright, privacy rights, publicity rights, and authorization prior to utilizing images of other users or copyrighted materials.
This is crucial when it comes to commercial content or utilizing someone’s well-known image.
Utilizing a reference image will not automatically grant you the right to commercial ownership or rights without restriction to the photograph that was used or the image of the person.
Final Takeaway – How to use reference photos in MidJourney?
The process of learning how to utilize the reference images in MidJourney is much simpler once you know the three major workflows:
- Image Prompt: The content guideline, visual, and compositional elements.
- Style reference: Guide the look and style.
- Omni Reference: Transfer a subject or person into a brand new world in V7.
To get the most effective results, begin with a clear photo of a reference. Write a specific request to choose the right reference style and increase the strength of your reference gradually.
Midjourney’s reference system continues to evolve, so check the current model documentation when following older tutorials especially when working with V7, V8.2, or legacy Character Reference instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I utilize images from my reference collection in MidJourney?
Upload your photo using Midjourney’s image menu. You can then choose to make it one of the following: Image Prompt, Style Reference, or Omni Reference based on what you would like the image to affect. You can then add a clear text prompt that describes your final picture.
2. Can I use a photograph of me in MidJourney?
Yes. You can utilize your own image as a source. To use V7, Omni Reference can aid in translating a person’s face into a completely new scene. The results aren’t guaranteed to recreate every facial detail precisely.
3. What’s the distinction between Image Prompt and Style Reference?
The Image Prompt can influence elements like composition, colors, and content, and the Style Reference concentrates on the aesthetics of the source.
4. What has been replaced by Character Reference in MidJourney V7?
Omni Reference was replaced by Character Reference in V7. It can be used to identify people, as well as objects, vehicles, and various subject matter.
5. Can I make use of multiple images as reference in MidJourney?
Yes. Multiple image Prompts may be combined, and Midjourney can also combine image prompts together with style References as well as Omni References in workflows that support it.
6. Can MidJourney duplicate a photo from a reference precisely?
This is not an all-inclusive Image Prompt workflow. Midjourney defines Image Prompts as a way to influence a brand new design instead of precisely reproducing images from the source. To make targeted changes to an existing image, make use of the Editor.
Also Read –
How to use Midjourney on Discord? A Complete Guide to AI Image Generation
How to Get ChatGPT to Create MidJourney Prompts: A Complete Step-By-Step Guide (2026)
Midjourney V8 Alpha: Key Features, Rendering Speed, and Prompt Controls
How to Get Midjourney V6: Step-by-Step Guide to Access (2026)