---
title: "Can AI Copy the Style of a Reference Image? | ImageQuarry"
url: https://www.imagequarry.com/faq/can-ai-copy-the-style-of-an-image/
last_updated: 2026-10-20
---

# Can AI copy the style of a reference image?

Yes, broadly. You can give an AI image tool a reference and ask for its palette, lighting, texture or overall look, and the new image will follow that direction. It picks up the feel, not an exact copy, and results vary by model, so review each one against the reference.

Most current models take a style from an input image when you say so in the prompt, for example "in the style of this image". Google's documentation describes reference images used to guide the style of a new image.

Say which parts of the style you want: "use the color grading and grain of this photo, not its subject". Without that, a model may copy the subject or composition too.

Style and permission are separate questions. If the reference is someone else's work, read [Can I use someone else's image as a reference?](https://www.imagequarry.com/faq/can-i-use-someone-elses-image-as-a-reference/) first.

ImageQuarry lets you add a reference to show a direction such as texture, color or light, and you review each version to see how closely it followed.

_Source: Google's Gemini image generation documentation and the ImageQuarry homepage, checked October 20, 2026._

Next step: [Can I use a reference image for color only?](https://www.imagequarry.com/faq/can-i-use-a-reference-for-color-only/)

## Related questions

- [Can I use a reference image for color only?](https://www.imagequarry.com/faq/can-i-use-a-reference-for-color-only/): Yes, if you say the reference is for color only.
- [Can I use someone else's image as a reference?](https://www.imagequarry.com/faq/can-i-use-someone-elses-image-as-a-reference/): Only with care: copying protected work can infringe.
- [Will AI copy my reference image exactly?](https://www.imagequarry.com/faq/will-ai-copy-my-reference-exactly/): No. It follows the direction, not every detail.
- [Can AI generate images in a specific art style?](https://www.imagequarry.com/faq/can-ai-generate-images-in-a-specific-art-style/): Yes, from a description or a reference.

Last reviewed 2026-10-20 by ImageQuarry.

## Bring the look you have in mind

Add a reference, say which part of its style to use, and compare versions.