The –stop Parameter in MidJourney: Usage Guide and Features

In MidJourney, the --stop parameter is a highly practical tool that allows users to control the completion level of image generation. By using this parameter, you can stop the image generation process at a specific percentage, which is particularly useful for creating partial generation effects or observing intermediate stages of the output.

 

Functionality of --stop

  1. Control Image Completion:
    The --stop parameter lets you specify when the image generation should stop. For example, setting --stop 50 will stop the process at 50% completion instead of rendering a fully finished image.
  2. Create Unfinished Artistic Effects:
    Images stopped mid-process often have a “sketch” or “unfinished” artistic vibe, making it perfect for designers and artists exploring experimental or abstract styles.
  3. Observe Generation Stages:
    Using --stop helps users understand how MidJourney refines details at various stages of image generation, aiding in prompt adjustment and creative exploration.

 

How to Use --stop

The basic syntax for the --stop parameter is as follows:

/prompt [description] --stop [percentage]

Parameter Explanation:

  • [percentage]: A value between 10 and 100, representing the percentage of completion. For example:
    • --stop 10: Stops at 10% completion, showing only the initial concept.
    • --stop 50: Stops at 50% completion, with some details visible but still incomplete.
    • --stop 100: Default value, generating a fully finished image.

Examples of Usage:

  1. Generate an Image at 50% Completion: 
    /a futuristic cityscape, neon lights, cyberpunk, ultra-realistic --stop 50
    • This stops the image generation at 50%, showing a semi-detailed version.
  2. Explore Abstract Styles: 
    /a dreamy watercolor landscape, pastel colors, artistic --stop 30
    • Stops at 30% completion, producing an abstract watercolor effect.
  3. Observe Sketch Stages: 
    /a dragon flying over a mountain, detailed, cinematic lighting --stop 20
    • Stops at 20%, showing the basic outline and composition of the dragon.

 

Common Uses of --stop

  1. Experimental Artistic Creations:
    • Stopping at a low percentage (e.g., 10%-30%) creates a unique sketch-like or unfinished style, perfect for abstract art or early-stage design concepts.
  2. Analyzing Generation Process:
    • By halting the generation at different stages, users can see how MidJourney builds the image over time, helping refine their prompts for better results.
  3. Partial Completion Aesthetic:
    • Halting at mid-level completion (e.g., 40%-60%) provides images with some details while retaining a raw, artistic charm.
  4. Save Time and Resources:
    • For projects that don’t require a fully finished image, --stop saves GPU time and speeds up the creative process.

 

Things to Note

  1. Applicability:
    • --stop works alongside other parameters (e.g., --ar, --q) and does not interfere with the prompt description.
      Example:

      /a golden sunset over the ocean, serene atmosphere, ultra-detailed --ar 16:9 --stop 50
  2. Incomplete Images May Lack Details:
    • Stopping at lower percentages may result in rough or vague images, which are better suited for abstract styles rather than realistic details.
  3. Lower Stop Values, Rougher Output:
    • A --stop 10 image will only show the initial outline, while higher values like --stop 50 display more details.
  4. Combining with Repeats:
    • Use --repeat to generate multiple unfinished variations for comparison and selection: 
      /a fantasy forest with glowing mushrooms, mysterious atmosphere --stop 40 --repeat 3

 

Complete Example:

/a futuristic city with flying cars, neon lights, cinematic, ultra-realistic, highly detailed --ar 16:9 --stop 60

 

Summary

The --stop parameter is a powerful tool in MidJourney, allowing users to control the completion level of image generation. It’s ideal for artistic exploration, observing generation stages, and creating efficient workflows. With proper use of --stop, you can achieve highly creative and experimental results tailored to your needs.