Midjourney is a powerful AI image generation tool that creates stunning visuals from text prompts. However, users sometimes encounter errors when their prompts exceed the character limit, receiving messages like "Your prompt is too long" or "Prompt exceeds maximum length." This can be frustrating, especially when trying to create detailed, specific images. In this guide, we'll explore why these errors occur and provide actionable steps to fix them while maintaining the quality of your generated images.

Why Does This Error Occur?

Understanding the cause of the error is the first step to resolving it. The error usually happens due to:

1. Midjourney's Character Limit

Midjourney has a strict character limit for prompts (approximately 60 words or around 400 characters). If your prompt exceeds this limit, the system will reject it with an error message.

2. Complex Style Descriptions

Detailed artistic style descriptions, multiple artist references, and elaborate scene settings can quickly consume your character allowance without adding proportional value to the output.

3. Parameter Overload

Including too many parameters (like --ar, --v, --stylize, --chaos, etc.) alongside a lengthy description can push your prompt over the limit.

How to Fix the Error

Try our tool

Optimize your prompts with our free online tool

Try GPT Prompt Splitter

1. Prioritize Key Elements

Focus on the most important aspects of your desired image:

• Identify the core subject and essential details.
• Limit yourself to 1-2 artistic style references.
• Use concise, specific descriptors rather than lengthy explanations.

2. Use Efficient Language

Optimize your word choice for maximum impact:

• Replace phrases like "an image of" or "a picture showing" with just the subject.
• Use commas instead of "and" to separate descriptors.
• Remove filler words and redundant descriptions.

3. Leverage Midjourney's Default Aesthetics

Work with Midjourney's strengths:

• Midjourney naturally creates high-quality, artistic images, so you don't need to specify "high quality" or "detailed."
• Use version-specific parameters (like --v 5) instead of describing the style that version is known for.
• Trust the AI's interpretation rather than over-explaining every detail.

4. Use Parameters Strategically

Parameters can replace many words in your prompt:

• Use --stylize to control artistic emphasis rather than describing it in words.
• Set aspect ratio with --ar instead of describing orientation.
• Use --chaos to increase variability instead of asking for "unique" or "creative" interpretations.

5. Iterative Refinement

Build your image in stages:

• Start with a basic prompt to generate initial images.
• Use the "Vary" button on promising results to create variations.
• Add specific details through the "Remix" feature, which allows you to modify just parts of your prompt.

6. Use Image Prompting

Combine text and image prompts:

• Upload a reference image to establish the basic composition or style.
• Add a shorter text prompt to guide specific elements or modifications.
• Use the --iw parameter to balance the influence between your text and image prompts.

Examples of Optimized Prompts

Before (Too Long)

After (Optimized)

Final Thoughts

Encountering prompt length errors in Midjourney can be frustrating, but they also encourage more thoughtful, focused prompt crafting. By prioritizing key elements, using language efficiently, and leveraging Midjourney's parameters and natural strengths, you can create stunning images without exceeding the character limit.

Remember that sometimes less is more with AI image generation. A concise, well-crafted prompt often produces better results than an overly detailed one, as it gives the AI more room for creative interpretation while focusing on your core vision.