AI image generator
The AI image generator can now be found everywhere. In Canva, on your iPhone, in ChatGPT, even in PowerPoint. You type a few words, and a visual idea appears that you can use in a presentation, post or campaign. But how do you make sure you use these AI images not just because you can, but because they add something?
In this article you'll read how to use AI image generators smartly in your workflow. We explain what you especially shouldn't do, how to interpret the output, and how to make these tools a strategic part of your creative process.
What is an AI image generator (and what is it definitely not)?
An AI image generator is a tool that generates an image based on your text input (prompt). Well-known examples are DALL·E (in ChatGPT), Midjourney, Adobe Firefly and Canva Magic Media. At its core it always works the same way: the model builds a new visual suggestion based on language and image data.
Important to understand:
AI doesn't generate photos of reality. They are synthetic, generated interpretations based on what the model has learned. So you get a probable image — not a factual representation.
AI doesn't generate photos of reality. They are synthetic, generated interpretations based on what the model has learned. So you get a probable image — not a factual representation.
That also means you should never take AI images literally. They help with visualising, exploring and speeding up, but are not a replacement for realistic imagery or branding visuals.
Where do you find AI image generators today?
AI image generation is no longer reserved for tech enthusiasts. It's now built into tools that many professionals use every day:
- ChatGPT (Plus): via DALL·E, with text-based image editing.
- Canva (Magic Media): available directly when creating visuals and social content.
- Microsoft Designer: visual AI tool within Microsoft 365.
- iPhone (from iOS 18): expected integration of AI image features for visual support in apps.
- Google Gemini: offers visual AI output, integrated with Google Docs, Slides and more.
So you don't have to look far, but that's exactly why it's extra important to understand the tools well before you use them as standard.
How do you use AI images smartly for your work?
An AI image generator is ideal for situations where speed, imagination and inspiration are important. Think of:
- Campaign concepting: visual mood impressions of a campaign idea, without designing straight away.
- Brainstorms: alternative takes on a thought or customer request.
- Social media: unique images for posts that are just a bit different from standard stock photos.
- Product mockups (with nuance): to explore how something could look — not as the final image.
Use AI images to speed up your creativity, not to replace final visuals. That way you prevent the quality or credibility of your brand from declining.
The pitfall: taking AI images literally
A common mistake is to adopt a generated image without question. It looks slick, but is it actually right?
For example: you ask an AI image generator for “a busy shopping street in Amsterdam with people shopping.” The output shows cheerful people, perhaps a few hints of canal houses, but rarely anything that really looks like the Kalverstraat. And it is rarely the same twice.
That's because AI predicts visually, it doesn't reproduce. That's why it's important to:
- Generate multiple versions
- Pay attention to details such as faces, text and proportions
- Treat the output as a visual suggestion, and only as a final product once you've generated your way to the right image.
Workflow: how to use an AI image generator in your creative process
If you want to use AI image generation seriously, it belongs in your work process. This is often what that looks like:
- Determine the goal – what do you want to use the image for? Inspiration, mockup, concept?
- Write a good prompt – describe not only the object, but also style, colour, composition, light, environment.
- Assess the output – check for inconsistencies, odd details, ambiguities.
- Edit or combine images – use AI as a basis, continue working in Canva, Figma or Photoshop.
- Build it into your workflow – use fixed AI tools, train a GPT for your style or subject.
What BE Digital can do for you
At BE Digital we don't just help organisations choose tools — we help you build a workflow that fits your brand, style and output needs.
With the BE Digital scan we map out:
- Which tools best fit your content or design team
- Where you can use AI image production without compromising on brand consistency
- How to develop an AI assistant that understands your style and tone of voice, and can therefore also write visual prompts that work
That way you avoid isolated AI experiments and work towards a structural strengthening of your content and creation. Request the BE Digital scan right away and discover where AI image generation can speed up your organisation, without giving up the creative process.