Google Nano Banana is Google’s image generation and editing model inside Gemini. In Gemini Apps, Google currently refers to Nano Banana 2 for image creation and editing, while paid subscribers may also have access to Nano Banana Pro for higher-detail regeneration.
Google says Nano Banana 2 can generate images, edit uploaded images, combine multiple images, improve character consistency, render text more accurately, and support local edits.
Use it like this: describe the image clearly, add visual details, review the result, then refine the prompt.
Step 1: Open Gemini and Start an Image Prompt
To use Nano Banana in Gemini:
- Go to Gemini.
- Select Create image.
- Type a prompt.
- Review the result.
- Refine or edit with a follow-up prompt.
Google’s help page says users must be signed in to Gemini Apps, and image generation availability can depend on language, country, age, and account type.
Step 2: Use a Simple Prompt Structure
A strong Nano Banana prompt should include:
[Subject] + [Action] + [Setting] + [Style] + [Composition] + [Lighting] + [Format]Prompt Example
Create a photorealistic image of a golden retriever sitting on a wooden porch, surrounded by autumn leaves, warm sunset lighting, shallow depth of field, vertical 9:16 format.Google recommends being specific about the subject, composition, action, location, style, and editing instructions when creating or modifying images.
Step 3: Add Style and Format Details
Style words help Nano Banana understand the final look.
Use terms like:
- Photorealistic
- Watercolor
- 3D animation
- Editorial portrait
- Product photography
- Film noir
- Minimalist poster
- Cartoon illustration
Prompt Example
Create a minimalist poster of a mountain cabin at night, flat vector illustration style, deep blue color palette, soft moonlight, centered composition, 4:5 aspect ratio.Google also suggests using format details such as aspect ratio, camera angle, lighting, and text placement for more controlled results.
Step 4: Use Direct Editing Prompts
For image editing, keep the instruction simple and specific.
Good Editing Prompt
Change the background to a modern office. Keep the person’s face, clothing, and pose the same.Another Example
Remove the coffee cup from the table and replace it with a closed laptop. Keep the lighting and camera angle unchanged.Google says Nano Banana 2 can edit generated images, edit uploaded images, and use multiple uploaded images to create a new image. (support.google.com)
Step 5: Use Reference Images Carefully
If you upload reference images, explain what each image is for.
Prompt Example
Use Image 1 for the person’s face and pose. Use Image 2 for the outfit style. Use Image 3 for the background. Create a realistic fashion editorial image with soft studio lighting.Google recommends clearly defining the role of each reference image, such as using one image for pose, another for style, and another for background.
Step 6: Add Text Instructions Clearly
Nano Banana can generate images with text, but you should keep the text short and specify where it goes.
Prompt Example
Create a clean coffee shop poster. Add the headline “Morning Brew” in bold white sans-serif text at the top. Include a steaming cup of coffee in the center, warm brown background, vertical 9:16 format.Google notes that Nano Banana Pro improves text rendering, but also warns that small text, fine details, and accurate spelling may still not work perfectly.
Step 7: Refine One Thing at a Time
If the image is close but not perfect, do not rewrite the whole prompt. Change one detail.
Examples
Make the lighting warmer.Change the image to a 16:9 landscape format.Keep everything the same, but make the background less busy.Make the product label easier to read.Small follow-up edits are usually easier to control than one overloaded prompt.
Copy-and-Paste Prompt Examples
Photorealistic Portrait
Create a photorealistic portrait of a young professional sitting near a window in a modern apartment, natural morning light, soft shadows, shallow depth of field, neutral colors, editorial photography style.Product Mockup
Create a clean product photo of a reusable water bottle on a stone surface, soft studio lighting, minimal background, premium lifestyle brand aesthetic, 4:5 format.Social Media Graphic
Create a bright social media graphic for a productivity app, modern flat illustration style, desk setup with laptop and calendar, blue and white color palette, space at the top for a headline, square 1:1 format.Infographic
Create a simple infographic explaining the 3 steps of backing up photos: choose storage, upload files, verify backup. Use clear icons, short labels, clean layout, white background.Image Edit
Edit this image to make it look like golden hour. Keep the subject, pose, clothing, and camera angle the same.Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Better Approach |
|---|---|
| Writing vague prompts | Add subject, style, setting, and lighting |
| Adding too many ideas | Keep one clear image goal |
| Forgetting aspect ratio | Say 1:1, 4:5, 9:16, or 16:9 |
| Using long text in images | Keep image text short |
| Expecting perfect edits | Refine one change at a time |
| Uploading private photos carelessly | Use only images you have permission to use |
| Trusting infographics without checking | Verify facts before publishing |
Limitations of Nano Banana
Nano Banana is useful, but it is not perfect.
Google lists several limitations, including:
- Small text and fine details may be inaccurate.
- Data-driven visuals may contain factual errors.
- Translated or localized text may have grammar or cultural issues.
- Complex edits and image blending can create unnatural artifacts.
- Character consistency can vary across edits.
For anything factual, branded, legal, medical, financial, or client-facing, review the output carefully before using it.
Safety, Copyright, and Privacy Notes
Google warns users not to violate copyright or privacy rights when generating images in Gemini Apps, and says users should use discretion before relying on, publishing, or using generated content.
Best practices:
- Do not upload private photos without permission.
- Do not generate misleading images of real people.
- Avoid copying copyrighted characters, logos, or artwork styles for commercial use.
- Check facts in diagrams, charts, and infographics.
- Review Google’s terms and your account settings before using outputs professionally.
FAQ
What is the best prompt format for Nano Banana?
Use:
[Subject], [action], [setting], [style], [composition], [lighting], [format]Example:
A cyclist riding through a rainy city street, cinematic photography style, low-angle shot, neon reflections, dramatic lighting, 16:9 format.Can Nano Banana edit existing images?
Yes. Gemini Apps can edit generated images, edit uploaded images, and combine multiple uploaded images into a new image. (support.google.com)
Can Nano Banana create text inside images?
Yes, but text may still have spelling or detail errors, especially when it is small or complex. Always check the final image before publishing. (blog.google)
Is Nano Banana good for infographics?
It can help create infographic-style visuals, but you should verify all facts, numbers, labels, and diagrams before using them.
Can I use Nano Banana images commercially?
It depends on your account, use case, local law, and Google’s terms. For commercial projects, review the terms carefully and avoid using copyrighted or private material without permission.
Final Takeaway
Nano Banana works best when your prompt is clear, visual, and specific. Describe the subject, setting, style, composition, lighting, and format. For edits, give one direct instruction at a time.
Use it as a creative tool, not a final authority. Review images for accuracy, copyright concerns, privacy issues, and visual mistakes before publishing.
