Lesson 1 of 8
Prompt anatomy for images
Control improves when each phrase describes a concrete visual decision.
Active reading
Subject
What must be present?
Composition
Where should it sit in frame?
Lighting
How is shape revealed?
Camera
What viewpoint and lens language?
Build the visual decisions first
A strong image prompt is easier to control when each phrase has a job. Start with the subject and composition, then add lighting and camera language. Style can come later.
Example
A white running shoe on a low matte pedestal. Three-quarter product view, centered with generous negative space. Large softbox from camera left, subtle rim light, clean shadow. 85mm product photography, shallow depth of field.
Try it
Define the four visual decisions.
Common mistake
Do not replace visual decisions with a long list of style adjectives.
“Beautiful, cinematic, amazing, ultra detailed” is less useful than a clear subject, composition and lighting plan.
Key takeaway
Write image prompts as visual instructions: subject → composition → lighting → camera. Add style only when it changes a decision.