MidJourney’s Random Parameter: Understanding and Usage

MidJourney does not have a specific --random parameter, but the concept of “randomness” can still be introduced into your prompt results using other techniques and parameters. These methods allow you to inject variety and unpredictability into your outputs.

If you want to achieve random or unpredictable results, here are ways to simulate randomness in MidJourney and explore unique, unexpected outcomes.

How to Add Randomness in MidJourney

1. Using the --chaos Parameter

The --chaos parameter increases the variability and unpredictability of the output. Higher chaos values encourage MidJourney to interpret your prompts more freely, leading to diverse and unexpected results.

  • Syntax: Add --chaos <value> to your prompt.
  • Range: --chaos 0 (default, low randomness) to --chaos 100 (maximum randomness).
  • Example: 
    /imagine A futuristic city with glowing lights and flying cars --chaos 80

This prompt will generate multiple interpretations of the “futuristic city,” some of which may be unconventional or highly creative.

2. Adding Vague or Ambiguous Prompts

MidJourney thrives on interpreting your descriptions. The more vague your prompt, the more the system will fill in the blanks with its own “random” creativity.

  • Examples:
    • Instead of: "A realistic tiger in a forest"
    • Use: "A tiger surrounded by mystery and wildness"
    • Result: You may see unexpected colors, lighting effects, or stylistic twists.

3. Incorporating Contradictory Keywords

Adding conflicting or contrasting descriptors to your prompt creates random and creative blends.

  • Examples:
    • "A futuristic ancient temple, glowing with neon, overgrown with vines"
    • "A surreal combination of a cyberpunk robot and a medieval knight"

By blending seemingly unrelated ideas, you force the AI to generate unique, surprising results.

4. Using Weighted Prompts for Random Focus

MidJourney allows weighted prompts (e.g., using double colons ::) to prioritize or randomize specific elements.

  • Syntax: keyword1::weight1 keyword2::weight2
  • Example: 
    /imagine A fantasy landscape::2 a flying dragon::1 glowing crystals::3 --chaos 60

In this case, the “glowing crystals” (weight 3) will appear more prominently than the dragon (weight 1), but the chaos ensures randomness.

5. Leaning on the AI’s Random Seed

Every MidJourney image is based on an internal seed (a numerical value that determines how noise and patterns are generated). If you omit the --seed parameter, the AI generates a random seed by default, leading to unpredictable results.

  • To force a random seed: Simply avoid using --seed in your prompt.
  • To explore variations from a single seed: Use the --seed <number> parameter for consistent results and adjust it as needed for variation.

6. Explore Variations of an Existing Image

After generating an image, use the Variation (V1, V2, etc.) buttons to create alternate, randomized versions of that image. Increasing chaos values (--chaos) during the variation step can further amplify the randomness.

7. Generating Random Prompts Using GPT or Other Tools

You can use AI tools like ChatGPT to generate random and creative prompts. Ask for surprising or unconventional combinations to introduce randomness into your image generation.

  • Example: 
    "Generate a random prompt for a magical forest scene with unexpected elements."

Prompt result: "A mystical forest with floating lanterns, mechanical birds, and glowing mushrooms"

10 Example Prompts with Randomness

  1. “A dreamlike underwater world with alien fish and glowing coral reefs –chaos 90”
  2. “A steampunk airship in the clouds, surrounded by surreal shapes and abstract colors –chaos 75”
  3. “A cyberpunk city merging with a lush jungle, neon lights glowing through the trees –chaos 80”
  4. “A fantasy castle, part ice and part fire, hovering above a stormy sea –chaos 70”
  5. “An abstract explosion of colors, shapes, and textures, undefined art style –chaos 100”
  6. “A mysterious traveler, half-human and half-machine, walking through a desert wasteland –chaos 85”
  7. “A cosmic creature with shifting forms, stars swirling in its body –chaos 90”
  8. “A futuristic robot with ancient tribal markings, glowing red eyes –chaos 60”
  9. “An enchanted forest where animals glow and the moon is shattered into pieces –chaos 70”
  10. “A surreal portrait of a human merging with nature, vines and flowers growing from their body –chaos 95”

Tips for Achieving the Best Randomized Results

  1. Experiment with Chaos Levels: Start with moderate chaos (--chaos 40) and gradually increase it to find the perfect balance of randomness and coherence.
  2. Combine Styles: Include unexpected combinations of styles like surrealism, cubism, steampunk, or realism to push creativity.
  3. Iterate and Refine: Use the remix tool or request variations on an interesting result to further explore random outcomes.
  4. Avoid Overly Specific Prompts: Keep your prompts broad and abstract for maximum randomness.

Summary

While MidJourney doesn’t have a dedicated --random parameter, you can achieve randomness and surprise by using the --chaos parameter, ambiguous descriptions, weighted prompts, and seed variations. Randomized prompts not only enhance creativity but also provide unexpected visual results that might inspire new ideas.

With the examples and tips provided, you’re ready to embrace the unpredictability of MidJourney and explore its artistic possibilities!