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Omni Reference in Midjourney V7: The Complete Guide to Precise Image Generation, Consistency, and Control

February 07, 2026

Midjourney’s Omni Reference is a new technology available in Version 7, enabling users to precisely control image generation using artificial intelligence (AI). With Omni Reference, you can now use it as a professional tool: add an image reference, adjust the oref parameter, control omni weight (ow), and achieve stable, predictable results.

In this article, we break down Omni Reference features, explain ow values, provide step-by-step instructions, and share practical use cases for real projects.

Introduction

AI image generation has advanced rapidly, but users have long faced challenges in controlling outputs—characters would change, objects would shift, and styles wouldn’t remain consistent.

Midjourney’s Omni Reference technology solves this problem systematically

Now you can precisely define the influence of a reference image, controlling facial features, clothing, style, visual elements, and details. This is especially important for projects requiring consistent visuals—whether for websites, marketing materials, or video content.

What Is Omni Reference and How Does It Work?

Omni Reference is a system that analyzes a source image and extracts key characteristics:

  • Shape and proportions of objects
  • Style and color palette
  • Facial features of characters
  • Clothing and materials
  • Repeating elements

This data is then used by the AI during generation. Omni Reference doesn’t just copy an image—it adapts it to fit a new prompt. This ensures a balance between creativity and accuracy.

Omni Reference vs. Character Reference in Midjourney V7

Previously, Midjourney offered Character Reference, which worked mainly with characters. The key difference is that Omni Reference is broader and covers multiple aspects.

CapabilityCharacter ReferenceOmni Reference
CharactersYesYes
ObjectsNoYes
Face & ClothingLimitedYes
StylePartialYes
Multiple ObjectsNoYes
Textures & BackgroundsNoYes

Omni Reference significantly expands Midjourney’s visual control capabilities.

Key Functions of Omni Reference

Key features of Omni Reference include:

  • High-accuracy transfer of visual elements
  • Adjustable influence strength
  • Compatibility across models and versions
  • Consistent results for image series
  • Support for multiple objects and characters

These features make Midjourney more than just a generator—it becomes a full-fledged image creation system.

Parameters: oref, omni weight (ow), and Influence Levels

The oref Parameter

The oref parameter is the URL of the image used as a reference. All image links must be publicly accessible.

Example query: /imagine prompt futuristic character --oref https://site.com/image.jpg

Omni Weight (ow)

Omni weight (ow) determines how strongly the reference influences the generated image. The default value is 1000, but fine-tuning unlocks its full potential.

ow Value Ranges: Low, Medium, and High

  • Low values (25–100) Minimal influence, more AI creativity. Ideal for stylization and experimentation.
  • Medium values (200–400) Balanced blend of originality and reference fidelity. The most popular range for Midjourney images.
  • High values (600–1000+) Strong influence. Objects, faces, and style closely match the source image.

Important note: High ow values provide control but may reduce variety.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using Omni Reference

This beginner-friendly guide will get you started:

  1. In settings, select Midjourney V7.
  2. Prepare a clear reference image or photo.
  3. Obtain a direct image URL.
  4. Enter the query: /imagine prompt description --oref URL --ow 350
  5. Add optional parameters if needed (e.g., stylize, chaos).
  6. Review the result and adjust values as necessary.

Tip: Start with a low ow value and gradually increase it.

Texture Generation and Consistency Maintenance

With Omni Reference, texture generation is now a controlled process. You can create complex patterns and apply styles across different objects while maintaining visual integrity.

Now you can:

  • Apply textures to multiple objects
  • Maintain style consistency across asset series
  • Ensure character consistency in Midjourney
  • Build a cohesive visual core for projects

Example

An online clothing store used Omni Reference to generate 64 t-shirt variations from a single fabric photo. Result: unified style and reduced budget.

Strategies for Improving Result Accuracy

To maximize precision:

  • Choose a clear, high-quality reference image
  • Write detailed prompts
  • Start with low ow values
  • Keep track of parameters and links
  • Use the web interface for fine-tuning details

Business Case Study

A coffee chain used Midjourney Omni Reference with ow = 400. The outcome: a unified visual style and an approximate 15% reduction in marketing costs.

Omni Reference Applications for Various Tasks

Omni Reference can be used for:

  • Prototyping
  • Character design
  • Marketing and advertising
  • Website content creation
  • AI projects and video production

Even experimental models (like “nano banana”) suggest that Omni Reference will continue to expand in application.

Conclusion

Midjourney’s Omni Reference is a key tool in Version 7, elevating image generation to a professional level. It provides control, precision, and result stability.

If you regularly work with visuals, start using Omni Reference now. Experiment with ow values, combine multiple references, add complementary parameters, and unlock the full potential of Midjourney’s AI.

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Max Godymchyk

Entrepreneur, marketer, author of articles on artificial intelligence, art and design. Customizes businesses and makes people fall in love with modern technologies.

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