Exploring Midjourney’s new experimental image aesthetics parameter

Midjourney V7 adds an experimental twist to image generation, but tread carefully, this new stuff is powerful.

Midjourney v7 is in full swing, and there have been some recent updates that seem quite interesting. One of them is a new parameter known as --exp.

--exp is best understood as a new aesthetic tuning knob, one that runs alongside --stylize. While --stylize controls how strongly Midjourney interprets your prompt in an artistic or abstract way, --exp adds a “second dimension” of creativity, dialing up the intricacy and energy of your images.

The parameter accepts values from 0 to 100, with 0 being the default. Midjourney recommends trying values like 5, 10, 25, or 50, as the visual differences between 5 and 50 are substantial. Beyond 50, the returns diminish, though the risks don’t.

What does it actually do?

In practical terms, raising the --exp value tends to:

• Increase image detail

• Enhance dynamism and texture

• Add a “tone-mapped” look, giving images a punchier feel

But…

…There's a tradeoff. As the --exp value climbs, prompt fidelity and image diversity may suffer.

Very well, let’s do some prompts.

Portrait of girl with long orange hair, green eyes, 20 years old, wearing a white top, blue sky, heavy wind --ar 3:4 --seed 2108071900 --exp 50

These are the results, as I changed the --exp value:

Clearly, the details increase as we go up.

Now, how would the same image change if we use --stylize instead of --exp?

Let’s test.

• Remember, the default value of --stylize is 100. By using 0 we are removing all Midjourney’s touch.

• When you use a higher stylize setting, you are giving Midjourney more freedom to interpret your idea and apply its style.

You can combine --exp with other settings like --stylize, but beware: at high values, it can overwhelm other parameters, even negating their effects. If you’re layering prompts with things like --p or --style raw, it’s best to start low.

Let’s test some combos.

See the difference between --stylize 500 vs --exp 750.

None.

Ouch. --exp 100 definitely overwhelms.

It doesn’t matter if --stylize is 900 or 300, the result is the same, dictated by our new parameter.

Be careful when you use it.

Now, let’s try to find the good spot.

Which one works the best for you?

When to use --exp

Use --exp when you want:

• More visually rich or textured results

• A dreamlike or cinematic tone

• Slightly unpredictable, creative flourishes

Avoid it if you’re aiming for literal prompt interpretation, consistency across runs, or need tight control over subjects and compositions.

As with any new AI art setting, the best approach is to test, compare, and adjust. Just remember: with great --exp comes great responsibility, use it wisely.