The internet is buzzing with a new trend as OpenAI’s latest ChatGPT update transforms ordinary photos into enchanting Studio Ghibli-style artwork.
This feature has gone viral, with users “ghiblifying” themselves, movie scenes, memes, and even portraits of notable personalities in a distinctive style reminiscent of Hayao Miyazaki’s masterpieces, such as Spirited Away and Howl’s Moving Castle.
This guide cuts through the confusion to provide straightforward methods for creating your own Ghibli-style portraits. Whether you’re a ChatGPT Plus subscriber or looking for free alternatives, get ready to bring a touch of Miyazaki’s magic to your digital world!
What Do You Need To Generate Ghibli-Style AI Images?
Initially, ChatGPT’s Ghibli-style image generator was only available to ChatGPT Plus subscribers, who pay a monthly fee of $20 for premium features, but it is now available for all.
If you have a subscription, you will still have the advantage of getting more image generation per day.
To transform your photos, upload an image and use a simple prompt like “Edit the above image to Ghibli-style anime art, please.”
Be prepared to wait up to three minutes per image generation. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman mentioned that their “GPUs are melting” due to the overwhelming popularity of this feature. The process requires patience but delivers stunning results worth the wait.
How To Create Ghibli-Style Art In ChatGPT?
Step 1: Open your ChatGPT mobile app or website on a browser
Step 2: Select the AI model as ‘GPT-4o’
Step 3: Add the image you want to edit into Ghibli-style art, and insert the prompt – “Edit the above image to Ghibli-style anime art, please.”

Step 4: Press enter and wait for a while to get amazing Ghibli-style art of your image using ChatGPT

How To Create Ghibli-Style AI Images Without Paying For ChatGPT Plus?
If you are frustrated while waiting for your friend with a ChatGPT Plus subscription to reply, you can even generate a Ghibli-style AI image for free.
Users with free ChatGPT account access can generate up to 3 Ghibli-style AI images per day.
With the trend’s growing popularity, the Open AI CEO Sam Altman also announced that the new Imagegen model will be rolled out for all users on 01st April 2025.
Can You Create Ghibli-Style Art In Grok?
While ChatGPT is the best way to get a Ghibli style, some users who don’t have a ChatGPT Plus subscription or have hit their generation limits have tried using Grok.
Following the same steps shared above, you can try Grok as a substitute for ChatGPT Ghibli style art generations.
Limitations To Generating Ghibli-Style AI Images On ChatGPT Plus
Even with the ability to convert any image to amazing Ghibli-style art, there are a few limitations to keep in mind:
1. Copyright and Ethical Concerns
Studio Ghibli’s distinctive artistic style is protected intellectual property. Replicating it without permission may lead to legal issues and raises ethical questions about originality and respect for the original creators.
2. Difficulty Capturing Artistic Nuances
AI often struggles to replicate the hand-drawn, painterly aesthetics that define Ghibli films. Subtle elements like brushwork, soft shading, and expressive character designs may be inadequately rendered in AI-generated images.
3. Lack of Emotional Depth
While AI can produce visually similar images, it often fails to convey the emotional depth and storytelling essence inherent in Ghibli’s work, resulting in images that lack the original’s charm and warmth.
4. Inconsistencies in Image Quality
Current AI tools may produce inconsistencies in character proportions, background details, and color palettes, making achieving an authentic Ghibli-like feel challenging.
5. Extended Generation Times and Access Issues
The popularity of generating Ghibli-style images has led to increased demand, causing server strain and longer wait times. Users have reported delays and, in some cases, access limitations when attempting to create these images.
Samples Of Ghibli-Style AI Image Generations Of Music Artists Using ChatGPT Plus:
Here are some of the most iconic images of music artists Ghiblified!
1. The Beatles

2. Michael Jackson

3. Jimi Hendrix

4. Kurt Cobain & Nirvana

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Conclusion: Create Ghibli-Style AI Image Generations On ChatGPT And Grok For Free!
As Studio Ghibli-style AI image generation captivates social media, it’s important to consider both the creative possibilities and the privacy implications. While ChatGPT Plus offered this feature first, free alternatives like Grok 3 now make this artistic transformation accessible to everyone.
Remember to be mindful about uploading personal photos, as privacy experts warn that your images may be used for AI training. The trend has sparked debates around copyright ethics and artist respect, with some arguing that these AI generations disrespect Miyazaki’s creative genius.
Whether you choose to create magical Ghibli portraits or not, approach with awareness. Ready to transform your photos into Miyazaki-inspired masterpieces? Start creating your own Ghibli art today, and share your magical creations with the world!
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