Generating images

The AI Image Generator lets you create images for your storyboard frames using text prompts. Reference images are the most powerful way to maintain consistency across your storyboard, allowing you to carry characters, locations, and visual elements from frame to frame.

This guide covers how to use the generator effectively, from basic prompts to advanced techniques.

Choosing an image style

Before generating images, select a visual style that matches your project. Click the Style dropdown to see available options.

Each style produces distinctly different results—preview the style thumbnails to find one that suits your needs. You can change styles at any time and regenerate images.

Tip: Experiment with different styles early in your project to find the best match for your creative direction.

Get consistent images

Reference images help maintain consistency across your storyboard. You can use existing frame images, generate images in the playground, or upload your own assets as references.

Important: The AI doesn't automatically remember previous frames. Writing "the same character" or "the location from frame 3" in your prompt won't work—you must attach the reference image for the AI to see it.

Using reference assets

Upload and use your own images as references, or use assets generated in the playground:

Using reference frames

Use existing storyboard frames as references:

Combining references

You can attach multiple reference images to combine elements:

• Add a character reference and a location reference
• Combine multiple character references for group scenes
• Mix assets and frames for maximum flexibility

Fast vs Precise mode

When using reference images, you can choose between two generation modes:

Use Fast mode when exploring ideas and iterating quickly. Switch to Precise mode when you need the highest quality output and closer adherence to your references.

Understanding generator states

The generator input field changes color to indicate its current state and what type of generation will occur.

Prompt only (blue)

A blue outline indicates standard generation mode. The AI will create an image using your prompt text and selected style settings. This is the default state when no reference images are attached.

Reference attached (yellow)

A yellow background indicates that reference images are attached. The AI will use these references along with your prompt to generate an image that incorporates elements from your reference images.

Reference required (red)

A red background indicates a problem: you've attached a reference to another frame, but that frame doesn't have an image yet. You need to generate or upload an image to the referenced frame first, then return to continue.

Tab to autocomplete

When your frame has text content (like action or dialogue fields), press Tab in an empty prompt field to automatically generate a prompt based on that content.

This feature:

• Reads your frame's text fields
• Generates an appropriate image prompt
• Optionally finds a relevant reference image from your storyboard

Tip: Tab autocomplete is a fast way to generate images that match your script content.

Writing effective prompts

The prompt describes what you want to see in your image. Good prompts are specific and descriptive.

Prompt basics

Note: Avoid phrases like "the same as before" or "from frame 5" in your prompts. The AI only sees what you attach as reference images—it doesn't have context about your other frames unless you explicitly attach them.

Using the "Show me" prefix

When working with reference images, start your prompt with "Show me" for better results:

The "Show me" prefix helps the AI understand you want to see the referenced content in a new context.

Important: When using reference images, remember to start your prompt with "Show me" for best results.

Using shot types

When generating images without reference images attached, you can select a shot type to control the camera framing. Click the Shot type dropdown to choose from available options.

Note: The shot type selector is only available when no reference images are attached. When using references, specify your desired camera angle in the prompt instead (e.g., "Show me a close up of the character").

Image credits

The AI Image Generator uses a credit system:

You can generate as many preview variations as you like without using credits. Credits are only consumed when you choose to insert an image into your frame.

Note: Workflow plan subscribers have unlimited image credits.