Chapter 2. From inspirations to effective AI image prompting

To guide AI image generation effectively, you need more than technical parameters—you need a visual vocabulary. In this chapter, we explore the foundational visual elements that shape how an image looks and feels, empowering you to write more intentional, emotionally resonant prompts.

We start with learning from the history of art, uncovering how ancient to modern art movements—from prehistoric cave paintings to Impressionism and Surrealism—continue to inspire today’s AI-generated visuals. These timeless styles not only enrich your visual language but also offer copyright-safe inspiration for stylized prompts.

Next, we move into exploring modern artistic styles, where we break down popular visual aesthetics such as realism, anime, watercolor, comic, pixel art, and cyberpunk. Understanding how to name and describe these styles helps you set the emotional tone and visual identity of your output.

The chapter then turns to understanding camera angles and perspectives. From low-angle “hero” shots to bird’s-eye views, we examine how each angle changes the viewer’s emotional connection to the image. Shot distance—from extreme close-ups to wide establishing views—is also covered, giving you more precision in storytelling.

With mastering lighting techniques, we explore how to shape atmosphere and emotion using prompts like “soft morning light” or “backlit with rim glow.” Whether you’re aiming for cinematic drama, dreamy sunlight, or glowing sci-fi neon, lighting brings your image to life.

We also cover applying color techniques to match tone and mood. You’ll learn how to use color harmonies like complementary or triadic palettes and choose between muted pastels, earthy tones, jewel-like richness, or high-contrast silhouettes to guide the viewer’s emotional response.

Finally, we close the chapter with techniques for effective inspirational prompting. Instead of over-specifying, this method uses evocative words to explore creative directions. You’ll find thematic prompt examples across categories like nature, urban life, abstract concepts, and more—ideal for discovering unexpected, imaginative results.