Forget Nano Banana! 15 Retro-Style AI Portrait Prompts Go Viral on Instagram With Google Gemini

After the buzz around Studio Ghibli portraits and Nano Banana 3D figurines, Instagram users have embraced a new AI trend: vintage retro-style portraits. Powered by Google Gemini 2.5 Flash, the craze brings back the glamour of the 1940s through the 1970s, complete with monochrome film grain, Polaroid warmth, and old Hollywood aesthetics.

If you’ve ever wanted to look like a star from a bygone era, this guide and list of 15 detailed AI prompts will help you create stunning portraits that match the viral trend.

How to Create Retro-Style AI Portraits Using Google Gemini

• Install Gemini App – Download the Google Gemini app and log in with your Google account.
• Upload Your Photo – Use a clear selfie for the best results. Neutral backgrounds work well.
• Enter Prompts – Copy and paste the AI prompts (below) into Gemini’s text-to-image tool.
• Refine & Save – Preview, adjust details like lighting or colors, then export for Instagram Reels or posts.

15 AI Prompts for Retro Portraits

👔 For Men

• Film Noir Gentleman: “1940s noir portrait, trench coat, fedora, cigarette smoke, moody black-and-white lighting.”
• 1950s Studio Star: “Sharp tailored suit, slicked-back hair, glossy magazine style, butterfly lighting.”
• 1970s Polaroid Cool: “Denim jacket, aviator sunglasses, golden-hour glow, faded film colors.”
• Old Hollywood Icon: “Black-and-white tuxedo portrait, dramatic Rembrandt lighting, velvet backdrop.”
• Old-Money Editorial: “Sepia-toned portrait, tweed blazer, soft window light, vintage library backdrop.”

👑 For Women

• Hollywood Glamour Queen: “1950s starlet look, pearl necklace, vintage curls, smoky backdrop.”
• Dreamy 1970s Glow: “Floral dress, warm sunset light, hazy golden tones, Polaroid vibe.”
• Monochrome Elegance: “1940s satin gown, strong contrasts, film scratches, timeless cinema look.”
• Vintage Saree Elegance: “1950s Indian film star, silk saree, traditional jewelry, sepia glow.”
• Golden Hour Goddess: “Outdoor golden-hour portrait, pastel tones, dreamy retro lighting.”

💕 For Couples

• Hollywood Love Story: “1950s black-and-white couple dancing, tuxedo and gown, spotlight drama.”
• 1970s Café Romance: “Polaroid-style café scene, warm tones, candid retro vibe.”
• Cinematic Sepia Elegance: “Couple in formalwear, sepia film tones, soft studio lighting.”
• Pastel Road Trip Love: “1960s pastel portrait, leaning against vintage car, dreamy road trip aesthetic.”
• Noir Rain Romance: “Black-and-white rain scene, couple under umbrella, wet cobblestone reflections.”

FAQs

🔹 What is Gemini AI used for?

Gemini AI generates high-resolution portraits in retro, cinematic, and artistic styles, replicating vintage lighting, textures, and moods.

🔹 How many free images can I make with Gemini?

Earlier, Google allowed 100 images daily for free-tier users and 1,000 for Pro/Ultra subscribers. Recently, the company updated its policy, stating:

“Gemini Apps limits may change. If capacity changes, free users may face restrictions before paid users.”