How to create Ghibli-style Portraits without paying for ChatGPT Plus

OpenAI’s new GPT-4o update has sparked a trend of Studio Ghibli-style portraits, exclusive to select ChatGPT subscription tiers. Despite the delay in the free-tier rollout, users can create similar artworks using free alternatives like Gemini, GrokAI, Craiyon, Artbreeder, and various premium platforms offering free trials.

With OpenAI’s latest GPT-4o update sparking a viral trend of Studio Ghibli-style portraits, social media is buzzing with ethereal, anime-inspired images. However, this feature, rolled out on Tuesday, is currently limited to ChatGPT Plus, Pro, Team, and select subscription tiers, leaving free-tier users out of the fun—for now. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman announced Wednesday that overwhelming demand has delayed the feature’s rollout to free users, meaning those on the basic plan can’t tap into the native image-generation capabilities of GPT-4o or Sora. But don’t worry: you don’t need ChatGPT Plus to join the Ghibli fest. Here’s how to create your own Ghibli-style portraits for free.

Poll

Which Ghibli film inspires your art the most?

Princess MononokeMy Neighbor TotoroSpirited Away

AI models like Gemini or Grok can also create Studio Ghibli-style visuals—think lush greenery, soft lighting, and expressive characters—provided you’re precise with your prompts, such as “a serene Ghibli-style girl with flowing hair under a cherry blossom tree.”

However, the output might differ from ChatGPT’s GPT-4o creations, as each model interprets styles uniquely due to differences in training data and algorithms. While ChatGPT’s images lean toward photorealistic finesse, Gemini, Grok, or trial-based platforms might produce a slightly more abstract or varied take on Ghibli’s charm, requiring some experimentation to nail the vibe.

You can still transform your photos or ideas into Studio Ghibli-inspired art without a ChatGPT subscription. Free platforms like Craiyon, DeepAI, and Playground AI offer AI image generation with varying levels of customization. Simply upload a photo or type a prompt like “portrait in Studio Ghibli style, lush forest background, soft colors,” and let the AI work its magic.

Again, these tools may not match GPT-4o’s photorealistic precision, but they can mimic Ghibli’s whimsical aesthetic—think flowing hair, vibrant landscapes, and gentle expressions. For better control, try Artbreeder, which lets you blend images and tweak styles, though some features require a paid upgrade.

If you’re aiming for higher quality, platforms like Runway ML, Leonardo AI, or Mage.space offer free trials that rival ChatGPT’s capabilities. Sign up, upload your image, and use prompts to emulate Ghibli’s signature look—dreamy lighting, hand-drawn textures, and nature-infused scenes. These tools often provide more advanced editing options, letting you refine details like Totoro-esque fluffiness or Spirited Away-inspired hues.

While ChatGPT Plus users revel in OpenAI’s loosened style restrictions, these workarounds prove you don’t need a subscription to create Ghibli magic. Experiment, share your results, and join the trend—subscription or not.

TOI Tech Desk

The TOI Tech Desk is a dedicated team of journalists committed to delivering the latest and most relevant news from the world of technology to readers of The Times of India. TOI Tech Desk’s news coverage spans a wide spectrum across gadget launches, gadget reviews, trends, in-depth analysis, exclusive reports and breaking stories that impact technology and the digital universe. Be it how-tos or the latest happenings in AI, cybersecurity, personal gadgets, platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook and more; TOI Tech Desk brings the news with accuracy and authenticity.Read More

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