Studio Ghibli’s dreamy and nostalgic art style has captivated audiences worldwide, inspiring many to recreate its magic in digital art and photography. However, Ghibli-style visuals are just one of many popular aesthetic trends.
If you’re looking for unique and captivating ways to transform your images, here are some of the most trending artistic styles you can explore.
1. Vaporwave & Synthwave Aesthetic
Vaporwave and Synthwave art are all about neon-lit cityscapes, retro-futuristic vibes, and deep, atmospheric colors.
How to Create It:
- Use bold purples, pinks, and blues with grainy textures.
- Add glitch effects, VHS filters, and pixel noise.
- Tools: Canva, Photoshop, or AI-based art generators.
2. Cottagecore: Rustic & Nature-Inspired
Cottagecore is a dreamy, countryside aesthetic that embraces nature, vintage elements, and a cozy lifestyle.
How to Create It:
- Focus on soft, warm pastels and floral tones.
- Add natural elements like fields, forests, and vintage decor.
- Tools: Lightroom, VSCO, and Snapseed for rustic effects.
3. Cyberpunk Style: Futuristic & High-Tech
Cyberpunk features high-tech cityscapes drenched in neon lights, inspired by films like Blade Runner.
How to Create It:
- Use dark, futuristic tones with glowing signage and holographic effects.
- Add elements like rain reflections and neon glows.
- Tools: Photoshop, AI art generators, or mobile apps like Prisma.
4. Dark Academia: Classic & Mysterious
Dark Academia is an intellectual and moody aesthetic, reminiscent of old libraries, candlelit rooms, and classic literature.
How to Create It:
- Use deep browns, muted golds, and gothic elements.
- Apply vintage book overlays and grainy textures.
- Tools: Lightroom, Photoshop, and classic filters on Snapseed.
5. Dreamcore & Liminal Spaces
Dreamcore is a surreal aesthetic that focuses on nostalgic yet eerie visuals, often resembling dreams or subconscious memories.
How to Create It:
- Use foggy lighting, blurred edges, and empty hallways.
- Enhance surreal effects with pastel hues and soft glows.
- Tools: AI art platforms and Photoshop distortion effects.
6. Anime-Inspired Aesthetic
Anime-style visuals capture the essence of Japanese animation, focusing on cel-shaded characters and bright, colorful backgrounds.
How to Create It:
- Apply cel-shaded outlines and vibrant color palettes.
- Add anime sky elements like sun flares or pink clouds.
- Tools: ToonMe, Waifu2x, or AI-based anime filters.
Final Thoughts
Ghibli-style visuals are just one of many incredible aesthetics you can explore in digital art and photography. Whether you prefer the retro-futuristic glow of Synthwave, the warm nostalgia of Cottagecore, or the moody mystery of Dark Academia, these styles allow you to transform ordinary images into artistic masterpieces.
Experiment with different tools and effects to find the aesthetic that resonates most with you and start creating stunning visuals today!