Understanding the medium
A vector image isn’t trying to imitate a camera. It communicates through form. Each shape and curve should read clearly at any size. Because there’s no lighting or shading to add realism, contrast and composition do the heavy lifting. The fewer colors and details you use, the stronger the design tends to be. Think of it as visual efficiency where only the bare necessity elements remain.Methods for strong results
Use straightforward language. Begin with phrases such as flat vector illustration, minimal geometric design, or bold outlines. Mention layout and alignment cues like centered composition, symmetrical balance, or grid-based layout. When relevant, define your palette: two-color design, complementary palette, or muted pastels. These details help the model understand how shapes relate and how color should carry contrast. If you need a background, describe it directly: solid background, clean white space, or light gradient backdrop. Without these cues, the model may fill unused space with unwanted detail. To keep shapes precise, avoid words tied to physical materials or lighting. Terms like texture, reflection, or shadow often confuse vector rendering.When results look off
If the image feels messy or inconsistent, simplify the prompt. Focus on the key objects and the arrangement. Overly descriptive language can break the geometry or cause soft gradients that don’t belong in vector art. If outlines look uneven, reinforce structure with prompt guardrails like uniform line weight, or consistent stroke width. For brand or icon-style work, keep it to two or three colors with clear spacing between elements. Try it:Flat vector illustration of a city skyline at sunset, simplified shapes, clean lines, bold orange and navy palette, centered composition, solid background. Compare this to a version that includes lighting or texture. You’ll see how staying literal by talking in terms of shapes, color, and layout produces a crisp, scalable result.