How to Achieve Character Consistency in AI-Generated Images with Midjourney’s “-cref” Tag

Master consistent character design in AI-generated images with Midjourney’s ‘-cref’ tag

AIEntrepreneurs
The AI Entrepreneurs
5 min readApr 3, 2024

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Midjourney has introduced a groundbreaking feature that addresses one of the most challenging issues: maintaining character consistency across multiple images. This new tool, known as the character reference tag (“-cref”), is a game-changer for creators who rely on visual consistency, such as storyboard artists and illustrators.

Let’s dive into a step-by-step guide on how to use this innovative feature.

Step 1: Generating Your Base Image

First, you need to create an initial character image in Midjourney. This will serve as the reference for subsequent images. To do this, simply enter your prompt in Midjourney’s interface. For example:

  • Prompt: A futuristic warrior in battle armor, standing in a dystopian cityscape.

Step 2: Copying the Image URL

Once you have generated your image, right-click on the image (or tap and hold if on a mobile device) to copy the image’s URL. This URL will be used to maintain consistency in future images.

For the above example, use the image from this link: https://s.mj.run/GeibHO7-Ceg.

Step 3: Creating a New Prompt with the “-cref” Tag

With the URL copied, you can now create a new image that maintains the character’s consistency. When crafting your new prompt, add the “-cref” tag followed by the URL of your reference image.

Here’s how:

New Prompt: The same futuristic warrior, now looking at the horizon, with a hopeful expression. -cref [Paste URL here]

Step 4: Generating the Consistent Image

Submit your new prompt in Midjourney. The AI will use the “-cref” tag to reference the character’s appearance in the original image, striving to match facial features, body shape, and clothing in the new image.

New Prompt: The same futuristic warrior, drinks orange juice— cref https://s.mj.run/GeibHO7-Ceg

New Prompt: The same futuristic warrior, with orange cape — cref https://s.mj.run/GeibHO7-Ceg

Tips for Best Results

  • Use Clear Images: The clearer your reference image, the better the AI can match the character’s details.
  • Specificity Helps: Be as descriptive as possible in your initial and subsequent prompts to guide the AI.
  • Patience is Key: It may take a few tries to get the perfect match, as the system isn’t flawless but significantly improves consistency.

Conclusion

Midjourney’s “-cref” tag offers a solution to one of text-to-image AI’s longstanding problems, opening new avenues for creators requiring consistent characters across their projects. By following these steps, you can explore the vast potential of AI-generated imagery with newfound consistency and reliability.

Whether for storyboards, series of illustrations, or any project needing character uniformity, this feature marks a significant leap forward in creative possibilities.

Example

  • Initial Prompt: A plucky chicken dressed as a chef, masterfully flipping an omelette in a bustling kitchen.

This tutorial should guide you in leveraging Midjourney’s latest feature for your creative projects, ensuring that your characters remain consistent across various scenes and settings.

FAQs

Q.What is Midjourney’s “-cref” tag?

A.The “-cref” tag is a feature in Midjourney that allows creators to maintain character consistency across multiple AI-generated images by using a reference image URL.

Q.How do I use the “-cref” tag?

A.Generate your base image, copy its URL, and then create a new prompt including the “-cref” tag followed by the copied URL to guide the AI in maintaining consistency with the reference image.

Q.Can I use the “-cref” tag for multiple characters?

A.Currently, the “-cref” tag is designed to reference a single image. For multiple characters, you would need to generate and reference each character separately.

Q.Is the “-cref” tag foolproof in maintaining character consistency?

A.While significantly improving consistency, the system may not be flawless. It’s recommended to use clear images and descriptive prompts for best results.

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AIEntrepreneurs
The AI Entrepreneurs

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