How to create AI images

Open an AI image tool such as ChatGPT, Gemini, Adobe Firefly or Canva, describe the image you want in one clear sentence covering subject, setting, style and format, then refine it with follow-up requests. Use AI images for backgrounds, illustrations and ideas, and keep real photos for your actual products and work.

Pick a tool

• ChatGPT: create images in a chat, upload a photo and describe changes, select part of an image to edit, and choose the aspect ratio.
• Gemini: create images from text and edit your own photos by describing the change. Google adds a SynthID watermark to images it generates.
• Adobe Firefly: generates images, video and vector graphics. It offers free daily generations, and paid plans add more.
• Canva: Magic Media turns text into images inside your designs, next to your templates and brand colours.

For a deeper look at one tool for product images and ad creative, see our Nano Banana for marketing guide. This article covers the basics that apply to every tool.

A prompt formula that works

For example: "A ceramic coffee cup on a wooden café counter, natural photo style, soft morning light from a window, square format, plenty of empty space at the top for text." Then refine: "make the background warmer" or "move the cup to the left". Small changes, one at a time, get you there faster than rewriting the whole prompt.

Edit your own photos instead

Often the best AI image is your own photo improved. Remove a messy background, extend a photo to fit a wider format, tidy the lighting or swap the backdrop for a plain colour. The product stays real, which matters when customers will hold it in their hands.

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Use AI images honestly

1. 1Never fake the productDo not show a product, result or premises that look better than the real thing. That is misleading, and customers will notice.
2. 2Check every detailLook for odd hands, warped text, extra objects and wrong logos before you post.
3. 3Keep text for your design toolAdd prices and headlines in Canva or similar, where you can check every letter.
4. 4Respect the labelsMeta may label AI images on Facebook and Instagram with "AI info". Do not try to hide it.
5. 5Avoid real people and brandsDo not generate images of real people or other companies' logos and products.

Frequently asked questions