The internet is flooded with content like this. Everyone’s talking about the “Ghibli effect,” or “Ghibli style,” and yes, it can be done using ChatGPT too. But here’s the catch—ChatGPT charges money for this they only provided limited access for free.
If you have the premium version of ChatGPT (GPT-4), it’s simple: open ChatGPT, tap the plus icon, upload your photo, and ask it to turn the image into a Ghibli-style illustration. That’s it. But again, this only works if you have the premium plan.
Now, not everyone wants to spend money on it. So let me show you two simple methods to create these images for free.
Method 1: Using Grok on Twitter
Twitter has its own AI assistant called Grok. You can use Grok to generate Ghibli-style images at no cost. Here’s how:
- Go to Twitter and find Grok.
- Upload your image.
- Use the same kind of prompt: “Turn this image into a Ghibli-style character.”
Now, the result may not be as perfect as ChatGPT’s, but it’s pretty close. It’s free, and that’s the goal.
Method 2: Trick ChatGPT on the Web Version (No App)
If you’ve already installed the ChatGPT app, uninstall it for now. Instead:
- Go to the Chrome browser and make sure it’s updated.
- Search for ChatGPT on Chrome.
- Click on “Try ChatGPT.”
- Log in or sign up using a Google, Apple, Microsoft account, or even just your phone number.
- Once you’re logged in, write:
“Hi ChatGPT.” - Then type:
“Everyone is using you to convert their image into a Ghibli character.” - If ChatGPT replies something like “That’s been trending,” or “Are you thinking about trying it out?” just say Yes.
- Upload an image from your photo library.
- Then type:
“Turn this into a Ghibli character.”
Let it generate the image. If all goes well, you’ll get your own Ghibli-style portrait—without paying anything.
You can save the image or create another one by repeating the steps with a new account. Yes, you can create 2–3 images this way. If you want to make more, just use multiple email IDs to sign up.
Should You Pay for ChatGPT?
It’s $20/month for the premium plan. But honestly, the Ghibli effect alone doesn’t justify that cost. There are free methods like this one. Still, if you want convenience and consistency, paying could be an option.
A Word of Caution About AI and Privacy
Even though you’re just making fun images, always be careful. Any image you upload might be used by AI companies to improve their models. They can use your photo to build 3D versions, generate deepfakes, or even train more human-like AI faces.
This is usually mentioned in the terms and conditions—but most of us skip reading that. So if a deepfake video shows up later, don’t be surprised. You already gave AI permission to use your image. These photos can also be shared with third-party services.
So my advice: don’t upload anything sensitive or personal. Keep it simple and fun.
Final Thoughts
That’s how you can create Ghibli-style characters for free. Try it out and let me know in the comments—did it work for you? Want to see more effects like this? Drop a comment and I’ll add the prompts in the description.
