New Delhi, March 29, 2025 — The internet is currently abuzz with a delightful trend: Studio Ghibli-style portraits created using artificial intelligence (AI). This surge in creativity follows the recent launch of OpenAI's ChatGPT-4o, which introduced a feature allowing users to transform their photos into enchanting anime-style illustrations reminiscent of the beloved animation studio's works. However, there's a caveat for those who wish to partake in this artistic wave—free users of ChatGPT are limited to just three image generations. Fortunately, aspiring artists can still join the Ghibli trend without spending a dime by utilizing various free AI tools.
How can one create Ghibli-style images for free? Here are some straightforward methods:
Using Gemini AI (for creating new Ghibli-style images):
- Visit the Gemini AI platform and sign in.
- Type your image prompt in the chat box (e.g., “a girl flying with a cat in a Ghibli-style landscape”).
- Submit the prompt. Gemini will generate anime-style art which you can download and share.
Using Grok AI (for transforming your own images):
- Go to the Grok website or app.
- Click on the paperclip icon to upload your photo.
- Request the AI: “Please Ghiblify this image.” A Ghibli-inspired version will be created, and you can refine or re-edit if needed.
Other Free Alternatives:
- DeepAI
- Craiyon
- Playground AI
Simply upload your image and describe the Ghibli-style scene or character you want. These tools often allow you to tweak styles and details until you’re satisfied with the result.
But what exactly is Studio Ghibli? Founded by Hayao Miyazaki, Isao Takahata, and Toshio Suzuki, Studio Ghibli is renowned for its timeless animated classics, including Spirited Away, My Neighbor Totoro, and Kiki’s Delivery Service. The studio’s hallmark is its hand-drawn artistry, featuring soft, expressive characters and vibrant, immersive color palettes. The recent AI trend aims to replicate the magical realism and nostalgic charm found in Ghibli films, allowing fans to create their own animated magic.
However, the launch of this feature has not been without controversy. OpenAI is currently facing lawsuits from various parties, including news publishers and artists, over alleged copyright violations related to the use of copyrighted content in AI-generated art. The term "Ghibli-style anime" refers to the distinctive animation style that has captured the hearts of many, and concerns have been raised about whether these AI-generated images threaten the intellectual property of the original creators.
In a statement regarding the potential copyright implications of its new feature, OpenAI emphasized its commitment to respecting the rights of individual artists while allowing users to explore broader studio styles. A spokesperson noted, “We continue to prevent generations in the style of individual living artists, but we do permit broader studio styles, which people have used to generate and share some truly delightful and inspired original fan creations.”
Despite the legal challenges, the trend shows no signs of slowing down. Social media platforms have been inundated with Ghibli-style AI-generated images, with users sharing their creative interpretations of famous memes, politicians, and even scenes from iconic films. Among the most notable creations are Ghibli-style depictions of high-profile figures like Elon Musk and former U.S. President Donald Trump, as well as a controversial recreation of the 9/11 terror attack on the Twin Towers.
Even the White House joined the trend, sharing an AI-generated Ghibli-style image on X depicting a felon being handcuffed by a U.S. immigration officer. The viral nature of this trend has even prompted CEO Sam Altman to change his profile picture on social media to reflect the Ghibli craze.
While the feature was initially intended to be available for free, OpenAI decided to restrict access to paid users due to the model's unexpected success. ChatGPT offers two premium subscription tiers: ChatGPT Plus, which costs $20 per month, and ChatGPT Pro, priced at $200 per month. The Plus plan allows users to access extended features, including higher limits on messaging and image generation, while the Pro version offers unlimited access to all reasoning models and advanced voice features.
For those unwilling to pay, free users can still generate up to three Ghibli-style images daily, but they will need to be strategic in their use of the feature. The recent rollout of OpenAI’s built-in AI image generation for free users marks a significant development in the accessibility of AI art creation.
As this trend continues to evolve, it raises important questions about the future of AI-generated art, copyright laws, and the creative freedom of artists. With the technology advancing rapidly, it will be interesting to see how the industry adapts to these changes and how creators can navigate the new landscape of artistic expression.
In the meantime, whether through paid subscriptions or free alternatives, the opportunity to create Ghibli-inspired art is now within reach for many, allowing fans to bring their favorite moments to life in a whimsical and enchanting way.
