How to Generate AI Images: A No-Cost Guide to Get Started

Whether you are an artist, a marketer, or just curious, learning how to generate AI images can help you create unique pictures quickly. AI images are used in many places, like advertising, social media, game design, and even for fun personal projects. Therefore, in this article, you will learn how to generate AI images, whether using text or image prompts, as well as getting an insight into Google's new AI image generation model, called Nano Banana.

Why do you need to use AI to generate images

Using AI to generate images brings many benefits that help people work faster and create better results. It makes the process easier and more fun, whether for business or personal use. Here are some reasons why using AI for images is a smart choice:

• Time efficiency

AI can produce images far more quickly than in the traditional way, whether it's hand drawing or doing a photo edit. Rather than spending hours, or more like days, hand-drawing an image or even editing a photo, AI tools like CapCut Web or Google's Nano Banana (Gemini 2.5 Flash Image), can generate AI images within a few minutes.

• Unique outputs

AI generates images based on different data and ideas, so the results are often unique and original every time. This means your images will stand out and not look like common stock photos or repeated designs. You get fresh, creative visuals that are hard to copy and more likely to grab attention.

Additionally, with Google's new Nano Banana AI image generation model, you can now create consistent high-quality, aesthetically pleasing, and photorealistic images with rich and engaging details.

• Style flexibility

With AI, you can easily change the style of your images to fit any purpose or mood. Whether you want a cartoon look, a realistic photo, abstract art, or something surreal, AI tools let you pick or combine styles you like. This flexibility helps match images perfectly to your specific needs or brand identity.

For instance, with Google's Nano Banana model, you can make complex edits, such as removing an object, changing a background, or altering a subject's pose, by simply describing the desired change in textual format.

• Cost reduction

Creating images with AI can be much cheaper than hiring professional artists or purchasing expensive design software. Many AI tools, such as CapCut Web or Google's Nano Banana, are free or low-cost, which lowers your overall spending dramatically. This is great for small businesses, startups, or personal projects that need quality visuals without breaking the budget.

• Creative boost

AI can inspire new ideas and help you explore different concepts you might not think of on your own. It gives you a creative push by showing unexpected results, interesting patterns, and unique combinations. This can lead to better designs, more exciting projects, and greater artistic freedom overall.

For example, Google's Nano Banana model benefits from Gemini's deep world knowledge, enabling it to go beyond simple generation. It can perform tasks that require genuine understanding, such as interpreting hand-drawn diagrams, following complex instructions, and providing contextually accurate outputs.

How to use Google's Nano Banana to create AI images

Known affectionately as "nano banana" within the AI community, Google's Gemini 2.5 Flash Image is a groundbreaking advancement in the world of generative AI. The model's core philosophy centers on a conversational approach, allowing you to use simple, natural language to achieve professional-grade results and unlock a new level of creative control.

To properly utilize Nano Banana for your needs, simply follow the below-mentioned steps and you will be good to go.

Easy steps to create high-quality images in Google AI Studio

STEP 1
1.  Select the "Nano Banana" model and enter a prompt

Begin your project by first selecting the new Nano Banana model from the "Tools" section (denoted by a banana) and then entering your text prompt. You can either decide to describe what you want to create or upload a base image you want to edit or use as a reference. You can also upload multiple images to fuse them together.

STEP 2
1. Use natural language to generate and refine

Once you provide your initial input, the model will generate an image. You then engage in a conversational workflow, using simple commands to make refinements. You can say things like "make the lighting a bit warmer," "change the sky to a clear blue," or "add a bookshelf to the background" to progressively edit the image until it's exactly what you want.

For instance, we entered the prompt to add an additional character to the image we generated previously. Similarly, you can make further edits to your photo by entering simple text prompts and Nano Banana will remember your previous entry.

STEP 3
1. Download and use your final creation.

After you've perfected your image, you can download it for use. The model ensures the final output is a high-quality visual, ready for your projects, social media, or personal use.

Steps to turn your 2D static image into 3D figure design

Transforming a flat drawing or digital illustration into a realistic 3D figure is easier than ever with modern AI tools like Google Nano Banana. Whether you're a designer bringing characters to life, a storyteller creating visuals for projects, or simply a hobbyist exploring 3D art, this process can give your ideas an exciting new dimension.

STEP 1
1. Prepare your prompt and upload your 2D image

Start by writing a detailed prompt that describes how you want your 3D figurine to look. Be specific about elements like the figure's pose, base stand, packaging box, or background setting. After crafting your description, upload the static 2D image (sketch, artwork, or digital drawing) into Nano Banana to guide the AI in shaping your design.

Prompt: "Turn this illustration into a 3D figurine. Place the character on a round black plastic base, with a decorative box behind it that has the same character printed on the front. Add a computer screen in the background showing the 3D modeling process. Make the scene look like it's displayed on a desk indoors."

STEP 2
1. Generate your 3D model

Click the "Run" option to let the AI process your instructions. The platform will analyze both your text prompt and the uploaded 2D image to create a lifelike 3D-style figure. This step typically takes just a few moments, and you'll see your flat design transformed into a dynamic figurine.

STEP 3
1. Save and refine your design

Once your 3D figurine is generated, download the output in HD quality. You can then keep it as-is or bring it into modeling software like Blender for further refinement, adjusting textures, colors, or even creating an animation if needed.

How to bring all your characters together in one frame?

Sometimes a single character or object isn't enough. You may want to bring several figures into one cohesive scene. With Nano Banana, you can merge multiple reference images into a single frame and arrange them naturally, almost like building a diorama. This approach is useful for showcasing a collection, telling a story, or creating more dynamic visuals.

STEP 1
1. Upload multiple reference images

Start by selecting and uploading the subjects you want to include in your frame. These could be different versions of the same character (like Labubu) or entirely different objects. Make sure each image is clear and well-lit so the AI can capture details accurately.

STEP 2
1. Write a detailed scene prompt

In your text prompt, describe how you want the subjects arranged. Mention their positions (e.g., standing together on a display platform, sitting side by side, or placed in a natural environment), as well as extra elements like background boxes, props, or lighting. The clearer your description, the more coherent the final image will look. Click "Run" to let the AI process your prompt and images.

Prompt: "Generate a 3D scene featuring several Labubu characters, each based on the uploaded reference images. Arrange them together on a single round display platform as if they are part of a collectible set. Place a decorative background box behind them with the Labubu artwork printed on it."

STEP 3
1. Generate and refine your frame

Once the combined frame is generated, review the result. If something looks off (like spacing or pose), tweak your prompt and run it again. Repeat until all subjects appear balanced and natural in one cohesive design. Click on the image and choose "Download" to save it to your local storage.

Generate stunning idol-style group portraits

Idol-style group portraits are a fun and creative way to bring multiple people, characters, or mascots together in one polished scene. With Google Nano Banana, you can seamlessly merge reference images, keeping each subject's look consistent while presenting them in a cohesive, stylish background.

STEP 1
1. Upload your subjects

Start by selecting the individual images you want to combine into the portrait. These can be idols, characters, or mascots. Make sure the images are clear and well-lit to give the AI the best details to work with.

STEP 2
1. Craft a stylish group prompt

Write a descriptive prompt that explains how you want the figures to appear together. Mention key details such as their arrangement (side by side, staggered, or in rows), their poses, and the type of background you want, like a stage, studio, or cool fashion-inspired setting. Click "Run" to create the group photo.

Prompt: "Combine the two people into one image and place them against a stylish, modern background with a fashionable, cool vibe."

STEP 3
1. Generate and refine the portrait

Review the output to ensure the figures look cohesive and natural. If something feels off, tweak your prompt or background description and regenerate until you get the perfect idol-style group portrait. Hit "Download" to save the image you like.

Key features of Google's Nano Banana (Gemini 2.5 Flash Image)

• Consistent subject identity

This model can maintain a consistent character, person, or object across multiple images. It's a game-changer for storytelling, brand campaigns, or creating a series of photos of the same subject in different outfits or settings. This solves a major challenge for many other AI image generators.

• Conversational, multi-turn editing

It redefines the editing process by allowing you to have a continuous dialogue with the AI. You can make an edit and then use follow-up commands like "make the background brighter" or "change the car to red" to progressively refine the image. This iterative workflow feels more like working with a human creative partner.

• Advanced inpainting and outpainting

The model has a powerful ability to intelligently fill in missing parts of an image (inpainting) or extend its boundaries (outpainting). This allows for seamless object removal, background changes, and scene expansions using only a simple text prompt.

• Multi-image fusion

Nano banana can understand and merge elements from up to three different images into a single, cohesive final output. This capability is perfect for combining a product with a new background or applying the style from one photo onto a different subject.

• Rapid, low-latency workflow

The "Flash" in its name signifies its exceptional speed and efficiency. This model is optimized for rapid generation and editing, ensuring that the back-and-forth conversational process feels fluid and nearly instant. It makes prototyping and editing incredibly fast.

While Google's Nano Banana can be enticing for new and advanced users alike, there's no denying that the tool may not be for everyone, especially if you like tweaking things manually. This is where CapCut Web comes in. With CapCut Web, you can instantly create an image (through its Seedream 3.0 AI image generation model) and then edit the image, post-generation, to your heart's content with its comprehensive image editing suite. Therefore, in the next section, we will explore how CapCut Web is the ideal all-in-one image generation and editing tool presently on the market.

CapCut Web: the all-in-one image generation and editing tool

CapCut Web is one of the best ways to generate AI images at no cost, making it ideal for users who want quick and easy creative tools online. It fits perfectly for those needing free, high-quality visuals without downloading software. With CapCut Web, you can create unique AI images right in your browser, saving time and effort for personal or professional projects.

In addition to that, the platform offers you a robust image editing suite, which you can effectively utilize to further tweak or edit your generated image, so that you can achieve your desired results.

Key features

CapCut Web provides several key features that make generating AI images simple and effective for various creative needs and projects. Here are some of its standout features:

• Efficiently generate AI images for free

CapCut Web's AI text to image generator lets you create high-quality AI images quickly without any cost, perfect for users on a tight budget or casual creators.

Similarly, Google's Nano Banana also allows users to generate stunning images, without having to pay for anything.

• Complete image editing suite

Once you are done creating your image with CapCut Web, you can utilize its vast image editing features to manually tweak each part of the created image, so that you can make it your own, unique creation.

• Smart writing tool for prompts

It includes a smart prompt inspiration tool that helps you describe your ideas clearly, ensuring the AI understands your vision better every time.

• Advanced AI image to video converter

You can easily turn your AI images into engaging videos, ideal for social media content, marketing, or creative storytelling.

• Rich collection of image effects

CapCut Web provides many effects to enhance your images, letting you customize and refine the look for different themes or styles.

Conversely, if you want to edit your generated image with just simple text prompts, then be sure to try out Google's new Nano Banana AI image generation model.

• Create visuals in different looks

The platform lets you experiment with various artistic styles, making it easy to match your brand identity or personal creative vision. Google's new Nano Banana also allows users to experiment with different artistic styles, by allowing you to combine elements from up to three different input images into a single, cohesive new visual.

• Generate multiple images at once

CapCut Web supports batch image creation, saving you valuable time when you need to produce many visuals quickly for projects or campaigns.

• Export HD images as JPG, PNG

You can save your creations in high-definition formats, ensuring excellent quality for printing, digital use, or professional presentations. On the contrary, Google's Nano Banana model allows image exporting in JPG format only.

How to generate AI images quickly with CapCut Web

To generate AI images quickly with CapCut Web, start by signing up for a free account on their website. You can register using your Google, Apple, Facebook, or TikTok account, or simply create a new account with your email and password. Once signed up, start creating AI images and videos immediately.

STEP 1
1. Head over to CapCut Web's image section

Begin your journey by first heading over to CapCut Web's dashboard and selecting the "Image" tab. Then, you need to select the "New image" option, following which you will be redirected to a new web page.

On the new web page, select the "Plugins" option from the left-hand menu and then select the "Image generator" feature.

STEP 2
1. Generate AI images by entering your prompt

Once you do that, you will be provided with the option to describe the image you want to create. Simply enter your thoughts in words and you will be good to go. After describing your image, choose your preferred "Aspect ratio" as well as the "Style" you want for your image, between categories like trending, art, or anime. For instance, if you want to create a futuristic image, then select the "Trending > Cyberpunk" style.

On the same window, scroll down till you reach the "Advanced settings". Here you can adjust the "Word prompt weight" as well as the "Scale" of the to-be generated image. Once you select your preferred settings, click on "Generate".

STEP 3
1. Preview and export your desired image

As soon as your image generation process is completed, you will be provided with a number of image options to choose from. Simply choose the one that suits your needs the most and then proceed to edit it further using CapCut Web's in-built image editing options. For instance, you can use the "Text" functionality to add meaningful words, add "Stickers" to make it more engaging, utilize the "Smart tools" to enhance the image, add "Filters" and "Effects", or use the "Layers" panels to rearrange elements. The possibilities are truly endless.

Once done, click on "Download all" to export it. But, before you do so, be sure to select your preferred format and resolution/size. Conversely, CapCut Web allows you to share your generated image directly on social media, such as Instagram or Facebook.

How to generate AI images from a photo with CapCut Web

CapCut Web makes it easy to turn any photo into eye-catching AI-generated art, allowing you to transform your picture into various creative styles like anime, sketch, or 3D. Just follow these simple steps to create and save your stunning images.

STEP 1
1. Create a "New image" canvas

The foremost step involves heading over to your CapCut Web dashboard and selecting the "Image" tab. Then, you need to select the "New image" option, following which you will be redirected to an entirely new web page.

Then, on the new web page, you need to select the "Plugins" option from the left-hand menu and then choose the "Image generator" feature.

STEP 2
1. Create a new image using your old image

A new window will come up, asking you to enter your image creation prompt. Here you will need to enter the description of the image you want to create. Then, slightly below it, you will find the option to "Add image". This is where you will need to upload your image, using which you want to create the new one.

Once you upload your image, you will need to select your preferred "Aspect ratio" and then choose your desired "Style" for the new image. Make sure to explore the various available styles at your disposal, so that your final image comes out just the way you want. Scrolling down on the same panel will give you access to the "Advanced settings" option, where you can adjust the sliders for image scaling and word prompt weight. After that, hit "Generate".

STEP 3
1. Download the finalized image instantly

Once your sample image(s) are generated, proceed to select the one that fits your requirements or purpose. You can then decide to further edit the selected image by utilizing CapCut Web's comprehensive image editing tools. After that, all you need to do is to click on the "Download all" option and you will be able to export your newly generated image in your preferred resolution (size) and format. Additionally, you will also have the option to directly share the image on social media channels, such as Instagram or Facebook.

How to generate an AI image with 5 expert tips

Getting good results with AI images takes some practice and smart steps. Understanding the basics helps you create better pictures faster. Here are 5 expert tips that guide you in learning how to generate AI images locally:

• Start with simple ideas

Begin with clear and simple ideas for your AI image prompts, whether you are using CapCut Web or Google's Nano Banana (Gemini 2.5 Flash Image). This makes it easier for AI to understand what you want and produce accurate results. When you're just learning how to generate AI images with my face, starting simple helps the AI capture your features better.

• Experiment with variations

Try changing your prompts slightly to explore different versions of your image. Small changes can create unique results and help you find the best look. This is especially useful when knowing how to generate AI images locally, where you can control the settings and test many options quickly.

• Use high-quality keywords

Choose detailed and descriptive keywords in your prompts to guide the AI well. Good keywords improve the image quality and style, giving you clearer and more interesting pictures. Understanding how to generate AI images with my face depends a lot on using precise words that describe my appearance and mood.

• Adjust image settings

Play with image settings like resolution, style, or color tones to match your vision. Fine-tuning these helps create images that fit your needs perfectly. When you're learning how to generate AI images, having control over these settings ensures more personalized and professional results. Thankfully, now with Google's new Nano Banana AI image generation model, you can make changes or edits to your generated image simply by typing a text.

• Save and compare results

Always save different versions of your images and compare them side by side. This helps you pick the best one and see what worked or needs improving. Knowing how to generate AI images makes this process easy since you can quickly access and organize your files on your device.

Creative ideas to make AI images for any niche

AI images can bring fresh and exciting visuals to any topic or niche. Using creative ideas helps you make images that fit your style and purpose perfectly. For instance, users nowadays are using Google's Nano Banana AI image generation model for a wide range of tasks, including creating social media content, product photography, marketing visuals, and personal projects. So, here are some easy ways to use AI images for different needs, including marketing, education, and social media:

• Blog visuals

AI images can create eye-catching pictures to support your blog posts. They help explain ideas or add color to your articles, making readers more interested. Using unique AI visuals makes your blog stand out and feel more professional.

• Meme concepts

You can use AI to generate funny or clever images for memes. This adds a creative twist to popular topics and helps your memes get more attention on social media. AI makes it simple to design memes quickly without needing drawing skills.

• Niche avatars

AI can create custom avatars that fit specific groups or interests. Whether for gaming, forums, or social profiles, these avatars help show personality and connect with your niche audience. This personal touch makes online interactions more engaging. And in case you did not know, Google's new Nano Banana model is optimized for generating high-quality, aesthetically pleasing, and photorealistic images with rich detail and accurate text rendering, which was a common challenge for previous models.

• Product scenes

AI-generated images can show your products in different settings or styles. This helps customers imagine using the product and increases appeal. Creating these scenes with AI saves time and costs compared to traditional photo shoots.

• Quote designs

Combine AI images with quotes to make attractive social media posts or presentations. The visuals add emotion and style to the words, making quotes more memorable. This creative mix is great for sharing motivation or important messages online.

Conclusion

Knowing how to generate AI images opens many doors for creativity and saves time in making unique visuals. By following smart tips and exploring different ideas, anyone can create pictures that fit their needs.

AI tools help make the process easier and more fun, no matter your skill level. For those looking for a simple and free way to start, CapCut Web is a great choice to quickly generate high-quality AI images online. And while Google's Nano Banana AI image generation model is indeed revolutionary, CapCut Web's intuitive interface and powerful proprietary image generation models are no slouch and could prove to be a viable alternative.

FAQs

1
1. How to generate an AI image of yourself without losing quality?

To generate an AI image of yourself without losing quality, start with a high-resolution photo and use AI tools that preserve details and colors well. Avoid over-editing to keep the image natural. Using clear, detailed prompts helps the AI capture your features accurately. For easy, quality results, try CapCut Web's AI image tools to maintain sharpness and detail. And if you want to try out something a bit more different and advanced, then remember to give Google's new Nano Banana model a go.

2
1. How to generate AI images from a photo for cartoon effects?

To create cartoon effects from a photo, upload a clear image and use AI filters or styles designed for cartoons. Choose the right level of detail and colors to keep the effect fun but recognizable. Adjust settings to balance between realism and cartoon style. CapCut Web provides simple tools to transform text/photo prompts into vibrant cartoon images quickly, similar to what Google's Nano Banana offers, where you will have the option to upload your existing photo and create a newly generated cartoon image.

3
1. What factors make an AI image look realistic or natural?

Factors that make an AI image look realistic include accurate lighting, proper shadows, natural colors, and fine details like textures and facial features. Good prompts and high-quality input images improve realism. Avoid overly stylized or exaggerated elements for a natural look. CapCut Web provides advanced options to enhance these features for more lifelike AI images. Another alternative that is currently on the horizon is Google's Nano Banana, which is highly efficient at creating high-quality, aesthetically pleasing, and photorealistic images.