Attributes
Attributes are the fine-grain details that define the surface quality of an image. They are the final layer that turns structure into atmosphere. Once the subject, composition, and style are set, attributes decide how it all feels up close. They control lighting, color, typography, materials, and other visual properties that shape perception.
Lighting is often the most influential. It directs focus and emotion: soft morning light through a window feels calm and natural, while harsh fluorescent light creates tension or sterility. You can steer contrast with words like dramatic side lighting, diffuse overcast light, or glow from below.
Color and palette define tone. Muted, desaturated hues signal restraint or nostalgia; bright complementary colors convey energy. Use phrases such as muted earth tones, high-contrast palette, or pastel gradient background. Texture and material cues help realism: matte metal, polished glass, rough linen. For digital graphics, typography and layout are also attributes. You can describe hierarchy and character — bold sans-serif headline, subtle serif caption,” minimal grid layout.
Think of attributes as your finishing pass in art direction. They don’t change what’s depicted, but they change how it’s read. A well-chosen attribute phrase can shift an image from sterile to cinematic, from playful to refined. The key is moderation: add only the attributes you plan to judge in the result. Too many competing surface cues can make the model hesitate about which one to emphasize.