How to Create Ghibli Style Images and Animated Videos

If you’ve ever been enchanted by the dreamy vibes of Studio Ghibli films, you're not alone. The soft pastels, intricate details, and emotional depth are iconic. Now, thanks to AI, you can replicate that magical Ghibli style without being a professional animator. In this blog, we’ll show you how to create Ghibli-style images and animations using ChatGPT and other AI tools—perfect for artists, graphic design enthusiasts, and creators looking to explore unique visual storytelling.

Before diving into the steps, let's quickly break down what makes Studio Ghibli's style so iconic:

• Hand-drawn aesthetics with delicate textures

• Emotional and expressive characters

• Nature-rich, whimsical environments

• Soft, cinematic color palettes

• Story-driven visual appeal

Whether you’re building a creative portfolio or want to create fantasy-inspired videos, replicating this look can take your content to another level.

Tools You’ll Need

1. ChatGPT

Use ChatGPT to generate creative prompts, character backstories, animation ideas, or even script outlines for your animated video.

2. AI Art Generator (Like DALL-E or Midjourney)

These tools help you create visuals in a specific art style. Prompt it with phrases like:

"Create a Ghibli-style forest with a small cottage and whimsical creatures"

3. RunwayML (for animation)

RunwayML is great for transforming still images into animations using motion tracking and AI interpolation.

4. ElevenLabs (for voiceovers)

Need voice acting? ElevenLabs provides AI-generated voices to narrate your story or bring your characters to life.

5. CapCut or Descript (for video editing)

Combine your animated scenes, voiceovers, and background music for the final polished output.

Step-by-Step Guide to Create Ghibli-Style AI Art

Step 1: Generate Story and Characters with ChatGPT

Start by asking ChatGPT to help brainstorm a concept:

Prompt:

"Create a fantasy adventure with a young girl who discovers a secret forest and meets magical creatures."

You’ll get a rich storyline, unique characters, and even dialogue ideas—perfect for visual development and storyboarding.

Step 2: Turn Prompts into Ghibli Art with AI

Use an AI art generator like Midjourney, DALL-E, or Leonardo.Ai.

Example Prompt for DALL·E:

"Studio Ghibli-style girl with red scarf standing in a magical forest, soft lighting, detailed background"

You can tweak the art style until it feels authentically Ghibli.

Step 3: Animate the Artwork

Upload your still images into RunwayML and use their Motion Brush or Frame Interpolation tools to animate the scene.

Pro tip: Add subtle movements like fluttering leaves or blinking eyes to enhance the Ghibli vibe.

Step 4: Add Voice and Sound

Use ElevenLabs to add natural-sounding voice overs. Input your script, select a voice, and generate high-quality audio.

Then, add soft background music—something piano-based or nature-inspired—to match Ghibli's serene soundscape.

Step 5: Final Edit & Export

Bring everything into CapCut or Descript. Layer your animations, voice, and audio. Adjust timing and transitions to make the video smooth and emotionally engaging.

Tips for Better Ghibli-Style Creation

1. Focus on Emotions

Ghibli scenes aren’t just pretty—they’re emotionally rich. Use soft facial expressions, reflective moments, and magical realism.

2. Nature is Key

Include lush landscapes, mysterious forests, or detailed skies to capture the essence of Ghibli.

3. Keep it Soft

Avoid harsh lines or overly vibrant colors. Stick with pastels and hand-drawn effects.

Why This Works for Creative Professionals

If your brand or freelance gig includes illustration or animation, this AI-powered workflow can be a total game-changer. You can:

• Quickly mock up characters in a magical setting

• Offer animated clips to clients as part of a premium package

• Present visual storyboards for branding or storytelling

It’s also a great way to enhance your offering if you're branching into character design services.

Final Thoughts

Creating Ghibli-style images and videos used to be a dream for most non-animators. But now, with the combo of ChatGPT and other AI platforms, you can bring magical stories to life in just a few clicks. Whether you’re a solo creator or a business exploring new design capabilities, now’s the time to dive into the world of AI-powered animation.

So, get dreamy. Get magical. And start building your own Ghibli-style fantasy today.