Hey Creative Friends!
Just got back from Greece (yes, I was working on holiday because my brain literally cannot turn off when I'm following AI newsletters and finding new tools to test). Today we're discussing AI image generation - specifically the tools I actually use for real work, not the ones I wish I had time to master.
I'll be honest - I'm not an AI art expert. I use these tools for specific work needs (mainly Instagram carousels) and that's exactly what I recommend to everyone else. Don't try to master everything - pick what serves your actual work and get good at that.
What You'll Learn (The Actually Useful Stuff)- ChatGPT image creator deep dive - Why this has become my go-to tool (spoiler: convenience + quality)
- Prompting that actually works - 4-element framework that gets you usable results, not weird blobs
- Copyright considerations - You can't use "in the style of [living artist]" anymore - here's what to do instead
- Keep it realistic and manageable - Focus on solving actual work problems, not becoming an AI art master
- Tools by creative role - Because you don't need to try everything, just what works for your needs
80% of my AI image use: Instagram carousel graphics for clients 20% split between: Blog headers, concept visuals, client presentations
I don't use it for: Complex illustrations, professional photography, detailed technical work
Try These This Week- Pick ONE tool - Don't try to master everything. Choose based on your actual work needs
- Test the 4-element framework - Create 3-5 images using subject + style + setting + technical details
- Save what works - Start building your personal prompt library for future use
- Focus on real needs - Pick one type of visual content you create regularly and experiment with AI for that
- Iterate, don't perfect - First attempts won't be amazing, and that's normal
You don't need to become an AI art expert. You need tools that solve real problems in your work. Start with what you actually need, not with trying to master every new tool that launches.
These are means to an end - creating functional visual content - not ends in themselves.
Tools Mentioned- ChatGPT Image Creator
- DALL-E, Midjourney, Adobe Firefly
- Recraft, Leonardo.ai, Runway ML
- Figma AI tools, Canva AI features
How creative careers are evolving in the AI era - who's thriving, who's struggling, and what skills are becoming more valuable.
P.S. - I spent way too much time testing new AI tools instead of enjoying Greek sunsets. Learn from my mistakes and focus on what you actually need for work!
Let's Connect!Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
Are You A Charlotte?
In 1997, actress Kristin Davis’ life was forever changed when she took on the role of Charlotte York in Sex and the City. As we watched Carrie, Samantha, Miranda and Charlotte navigate relationships in NYC, the show helped push once unacceptable conversation topics out of the shadows and altered the narrative around women and sex. We all saw ourselves in them as they searched for fulfillment in life, sex and friendships. Now, Kristin Davis wants to connect with you, the fans, and share untold stories and all the behind the scenes. Together, with Kristin and special guests, what will begin with Sex and the City will evolve into talks about themes that are still so relevant today. "Are you a Charlotte?" is much more than just rewatching this beloved show, it brings the past and the present together as we talk with heart, humor and of course some optimism.