If you’ve ever wanted your life to feel like a Studio Ghibli movie — full of calm skies, peaceful streets, cozy corners, and that warm, dreamy vibe — you’re not alone. Lately, social media is full of photos that look like they were taken straight out of Spirited Away or My Neighbor Totoro. And guess what? You can create those too — for free and without needing Photoshop skills.
Whether you’re just curious, love the Ghibli aesthetic, or want to make your next profile picture something a little more magical, this guide will walk you through exactly how to do it. Let’s get into the magic.
☁️ What Is a Ghibli-Style Image?
A Ghibli-style image is a photo that’s been transformed to look like a frame from a Studio Ghibli film. Think:
- Soft pastel skies
- Dreamy lighting
- Cozy houses and green fields
- Peaceful moments and magical details
They usually carry that nostalgic, heartwarming feeling Ghibli is known for. It’s not about flashy effects — it’s about vibe. If you’ve watched Howl’s Moving Castle, you already get it.
✨ Why Is This Trend So Popular Right Now?
Honestly, Ghibli photos just feel good. They’re soothing, charming, and slightly surreal in the best way possible. In a digital world full of filters that make things sharper, cleaner, or bolder, Ghibli-style photos do the opposite. They slow things down. They remind us that even everyday moments — like walking to the store or sitting by a window — can be beautiful.
Plus, it’s fun. Creating Ghibli-style art is like dipping your real life in a fairytale — no drawing required.
🎨 How To Make Ghibli-Style Images (Step-by-Step)
Let’s get to the good stuff: how to actually make your own.
There are two main ways to do this:
- Using AI tools (fast & beginner-friendly)
- Manual editing (for those who want full creative control)
Option 1: Use AI Tools (Quick & Free)
If you want instant results without spending hours editing, AI tools are your best bet. These apps and websites turn your photo into a dreamy, animated version with just a few clicks.
1. Fotor Studio Ghibli Filter
This one’s trending for a reason.
How to use it:
- Visit the link above
- Upload your photo
- Choose the Ghibli filter
- Download the final image — done!
It works best with outdoor photos, especially ones with greenery, sunlight, or clear skies.
Pros: Free, beginner-friendly, fast
Cons: Limited customization
2. IMGFX AI
Perfect for those who like to experiment with prompts.
Here’s how:
- Head to IMGFX and click on the Ghibli style
- You can either upload a photo or type a prompt (e.g. “a Ghibli-style train station in the mountains”)
- Let the AI generate a new image for you
Bonus tip: You can use this to create completely new Ghibli-style worlds — even if you don’t have a photo to start with.
3. Artguru AI (Mobile App)
If you’re on your phone, Artguru is an easy go-to.
- Download it from the App Store or Google Play
- Upload a selfie or any photo
- Choose the “Ghibli” or “Anime” style
- Download and post!
It’s perfect for Instagram or profile pics. And the results are surprisingly good.
Option 2: Manually Create a Ghibli Image (DIY Style)
This is for those who want full control — or just love a creative project.
You’ll need:
- A good photo (preferably outdoors, with natural light)
- Editing software like Procreate (iPad), Photoshop (PC), or free tools like GIMP
Steps:
- Start with a soft filter – Lower the contrast, warm up the tones, and add a pastel-like glow.
- Add textures – Use watercolor brushes or grain effects to make it look like an animation cel.
- Include Ghibli-style details – Think soft clouds, sparkles, floating spirits, or cozy buildings.
- Play with lighting – Add a gentle light leak or glow. Ghibli is all about natural light and atmosphere.
- Final touches – Slight blur in the background (like depth of field), subtle grain, and color grading.
This method takes more time but gives you creative freedom. You can even draw your own little details, like Kodama spirits or flying cats, into the scene.
🔍 Choosing the Right Photo
Want better results? Start with a great base photo.
Look for these things:
- Natural light (golden hour is the sweet spot)
- Simple backgrounds like trees, streets, or fields
- Emotion or movement — walking, staring into the distance, drinking tea, etc.
- Pastel or neutral outfits — Ghibli characters aren’t flashy, and earthy tones work best
🪄 Ghibli-ify Anything: Creative Ideas to Try
- Your pet sitting by a window? Ghibli moment.
- A rainy street photo? Straight out of Kiki’s Delivery Service.
- A peaceful train ride pic? Feels like Spirited Away.
- A quiet morning walk? That’s peak Only Yesterday vibes.
You can even go full fantasy — create scenes with floating islands, flying machines, or forest spirits using AI prompts. Let your imagination wander.
💡 Ghibli-Inspired Prompts to Try with AI
If you’re using IMGFX or other prompt-based generators, try these fun ideas:
- “A Ghibli-style cottage surrounded by sunflowers”
- “A girl and a fox under a magical tree at sunset”
- “A floating tea shop in the sky with lanterns”
- “A train riding through clouds in watercolor style”
The more specific your prompt, the more interesting the result.
🚫 Can I Sell These Images?
Short answer: Nope, not if they closely copy the Ghibli style.
Studio Ghibli is extremely protective of its art and style. If you’re using AI filters that mimic Ghibli’s look, keep it personal — use them for fun, for wallpapers, or social media posts. But avoid selling prints or using them commercially.
If you want to sell art, it has to be original and inspired by the style — not copied. That means drawing your own scenes or creating a unique aesthetic that’s Ghibli-influenced but not directly lifted.
🧠 Fun Fact: Miyazaki Doesn’t Like AI Art
Hayao Miyazaki, the co-founder of Studio Ghibli, once called AI-generated art “an insult to life itself.” Harsh? Maybe. But it just shows how deeply he values hand-drawn, emotional storytelling.
So while you’re free to enjoy these tools for personal use, always remember: the heart of Ghibli lies in intentional, soul-filled creation. Let that spirit inspire you.
📲 Where To Share Your Ghibli Creations
Once your Ghibli masterpiece is ready, show it off! Here are a few places to post:
- Instagram – Use hashtags like #GhibliStyle, #AIArt, or #AnimeAesthetic
- Pinterest – Great for mood boards and getting inspired
- Reddit – Subreddits like r/Ghibli or r/AnimeArt love these kinds of creations
- Discord art servers – Join creative communities to share and get feedback
🎬 Final Thoughts
The Ghibli trend is about more than just visuals. It’s a gentle reminder that even the ordinary can be magical — a quiet morning, a sunset walk, or tea on a rainy day.
Whether you use AI or go full DIY, creating a Ghibli-style photo is a fun, peaceful escape. So next time you’re sitting by the window, snap a photo. It might just be your next Ghibli scene.