How to master stylize parameters on Midjourney
Quick Answer
The stylize parameter (--s) controls how much Midjourney's artistic interpretation influences your generated images. Lower values (0-100) create more literal interpretations, while higher values (100-1000) add more artistic flair and creative interpretation.
Prerequisites
- Basic Discord knowledge
- Active Midjourney subscription
- Understanding of prompt structure
- Familiarity with Midjourney commands
Step-by-Step Instructions
1
Understand stylize value ranges
Learn the three main stylize ranges: Low stylization (--s 0-100) produces literal, photorealistic results closely matching your prompt. Medium stylization (--s 100-400) balances prompt accuracy with artistic interpretation. High stylization (--s 400-1000) creates highly artistic, abstract interpretations with maximum creative freedom.
Start with --s 100 as your baseline and adjust from there based on your desired artistic level.
2
Add stylize parameters to your prompt
Type your prompt in a Midjourney channel, then add the stylize parameter at the end:
/imagine prompt: your description here --s 250. You can place the --s parameter anywhere after your main prompt text. For example: /imagine prompt: portrait of a cat --s 500 --ar 16:9. Always use two dashes (--) before the 's' parameter, not one dash or the word 'stylize'.
3
Test different stylize levels with the same prompt
Create variations using the same prompt with different stylize values to see the range of results. Try:
/imagine prompt: mountain landscape at sunset --s 50, then --s 250, then --s 750. Compare how the same scene changes from realistic to highly stylized across different values. Save your favorite stylize values for different types of content - portraits might work best at --s 150 while abstract art shines at --s 600.
4
Combine stylize with style references
Use
--sref (style reference) with --s for more control. Upload a reference image, then use: /imagine prompt: your subject --sref [image_url] --s 300. The stylize parameter controls how strongly the style reference is applied - higher values make the reference more prominent. Lower stylize values (--s 100-200) with style references create subtle style influences, while higher values (--s 400-600) create dramatic style transformations.
5
Adjust stylize for different content types
Use --s 0-150 for photorealistic portraits, product photos, and technical illustrations. Use --s 200-400 for concept art, fantasy scenes, and creative photography. Use --s 500-1000 for abstract art, surreal compositions, and highly stylized illustrations.
Document your successful stylize values for different project types to build your personal stylize reference guide.
6
Use chaos parameter with stylize
Combine
--s with --chaos for varied results: /imagine prompt: futuristic city --s 400 --chaos 50. Low chaos (0-25) with high stylize creates consistent artistic style. High chaos (50-100) with medium stylize produces diverse interpretations while maintaining some artistic flair. Try --s 300 --chaos 25 for a sweet spot that balances creativity with consistency across your image grid.
7
Create stylize comparison grids
Generate systematic comparisons by creating a grid showing the same prompt at different stylize levels. Use the Vary (Region) tool to remix specific areas with different stylize values, or create separate generations with
--s 100, --s 300, --s 600, and --s 900 to study the progression. Create a personal reference sheet with your most-used prompts at different stylize levels for quick decision-making on future projects.
Common Issues & Troubleshooting
Images look too artificial or over-stylized
Lower your stylize value to --s 50-150 for more natural, photorealistic results. Combine with --style raw for maximum realism.
Results are too literal and lack creativity
Increase stylize to --s 400-700 and consider adding artistic style keywords like 'painterly', 'impressionist', or 'cinematic' to your prompt.
Stylize parameter seems to have no effect
Check your syntax - use --s not -s or --stylize. Ensure the value is between 0-1000. Some prompts with very specific technical terms may override stylization.
Inconsistent results with same stylize value
Add --chaos 0 for more consistent results, or use a seed parameter --seed 12345 to reproduce exact variations. Remember that different model versions may interpret stylize values differently.
Prices mentioned in this guide are pulled from current plan data and may change. Always verify on the official Midjourney website before purchasing.