How to Use Imagen AI: What You Need to Know
Have you ever wanted to turn your words into pictures? Imagen AI, Google’s text-to-image tool, lets you do exactly that. As a result, you can create realistic photos, edit images you already have, or make art in many different styles. You need to type what you want. Consequently, this guide shows you everything you need to know. Moreover, you will learn how to use Imagen AI step by step.
What is Imagen AI?
First and foremost, Imagen AI is a tool from Google DeepMind. Specifically, it turns words into pictures. In other words, you type a description, and the AI makes an image from your words. For instance, the newest version, Imagen 4, came out in May 2025. Additionally, it makes images that look very real. Furthermore, it can make pictures up to 2K quality. Similarly, this tool works like DALL·E, MidJourney, and Stable Diffusion. However, it has some special features that make it different.
Moreover, Google put Imagen in several places. For example, you can find it in Gemini for regular users. Likewise, you can use it in Google AI Studio to try things out. In addition, you can also use it in Vertex AI if you run a business. Therefore, this means you can pick the way that works best for you.
What Can Imagen AI Do?
Imagen AI has many useful features. Here are the main things you can do with it.
Make New Images from Words
First and foremost, this is the main feature. Specifically, you type what you want to see, and the AI makes it for you. Additionally, it only takes a few seconds. For example, you could type “a cat on a skateboard at sunset.” Consequently, the AI will make that picture for you. Moreover, it works with many different styles. As a result, you can ask for things that look like photos. Similarly, you can ask for things that look like paintings. In fact, you can even ask for things that look like cartoons.
Edit Images You Already Have
Secondly, you can also change pictures you already own. Specifically, this works in two ways. First, you can change one part of a picture. In other words, you draw over the part you want to change. Then you type what should go there. Consequently, the AI fills in that spot with something new. Second, you can add more space around your picture. As a result, the AI makes new content that fits with what is already there. Therefore, this is great for making pictures bigger or changing their shape.
Make Blurry Images Clear
Third, do you have old photos that look blurry? Fortunately, Imagen AI can fix them. Specifically, it makes low-quality images look sharp and clear. Additionally, this works for photos you took yourself. Likewise, it also works for images that the AI made. As a result, you can bring old pictures back to life with this feature.
Use Different Art Styles
Fourth, you are not stuck with just one look. On the contrary, Imagen AI can make images in many styles. For instance, you can get photorealistic results. Similarly, you can get watercolor paintings. Moreover, you can get oil paintings. In addition, you can get simple, minimal art. Furthermore, you can get abstract designs. Ultimately, the choice is yours. Consequently, just tell the AI what style you want.
Add Text to Images
Additionally, newer versions of Imagen can add words to your pictures. Specifically, this works in many languages. For example, you can make logos with text. Likewise, you can make ads with words on them. As a result, this is very useful for business users. Consequently, you can create branded content that looks professional.
How to Get Imagen AI
You have a few ways to use Imagen AI. Therefore, pick the one that fits your needs best.
Use Gemini
First, Gemini is the easiest way to start. Specifically, it works like a chat app. In other words, you talk to the AI, and it makes images from your chat. Additionally, you do not need to set anything up. Just go to the Gemini website. Then log in with your Google account. After that, start typing what you want. Moreover, make sure image making is turned on. Consequently, watch your picture appear. Therefore, this is best for people who want quick and easy results.
Use Google AI Studio
Second, do you like to try new things? If so, Google AI Studio gives you more control. Specifically, you go to the dashboard. Next, you click on “Generate media.” Then you pick Imagen from the list. After that, you can change settings. For instance, you can pick the size of your image. Likewise, you can pick how clear it should be. Consequently, this is good for people who want to learn how the AI works.
Use Vertex AI
Third, do you run a business? If yes, Vertex AI is made for you. Specifically, it gives you tools for big projects. Moreover, it keeps your data safe and private. For example, big companies like Snap and Shutterstock use it. In fact, they put Imagen in their own apps. Therefore, this is the best choice if you need to make lots of images or build your own tools.
Use ImageFX
Fourth, ImageFX is a simple tool just for making images. Specifically, it does not have chat features. Instead, you just type what you want and get pictures. Consequently, this is good if you only want to make images and nothing else.
How to Make Your First Image
Let me show you how to make an image step by step. Specifically, we will use Google AI Studio because it gives you the most control.
Step 1: Sign In
First, sign in to your Google account. Then go to Google AI Studio. This is where Google keeps its creative AI tools. If you have not been there before, you might see a welcome screen. However, just click through it to get to the main page.
Step 2: Pick the Right Model
Next, look for a button that says “Generate media.” Click on it. As a result, you will see a list of AI models you can use. Then pick “Imagen” from the list. Consequently, this takes you to a workspace made for making images.
After that, look in the top right corner. Specifically, find the “Run settings” button. Click it. Consequently, you will see a list of model options. Then pick “Imagen 4” for the best quality. Additionally, you might also see other choices. For instance, “Ultra” makes very detailed images but takes longer. On the other hand, “Fast” makes images quickly but with less detail. Therefore, pick the one that works for what you need.
Step 3: Write Your Prompt
Now you type what you want to see. This is called a prompt. Importantly, be as clear as you can. Specifically, tell the AI about the main thing in the picture. Additionally, tell it where things are. Moreover, tell it what colors to use. Furthermore, tell it how you want it to feel.
For example, do not just say “a dog.” Instead, say “a happy golden retriever puppy playing in a field of flowers on a sunny day with soft shadows.” Consequently, this gives the AI more to work with. As a result, you will get a much better picture.
Step 4: Change Your Settings
Next, look at the Run settings menu again. Specifically, you will see more options there. For instance, you can pick the shape of your image. In particular, you can choose from sizes like 9:16, 3:4, 1:1, 4:3, or 16:9. Therefore, pick the one that fits where you will use the image. Additionally, you can also pick how clear you want the image to be. Moreover, you can pick how many images to make at once. Consequently, this lets you get several options to choose from.
Step 5: Make Your Image
After that, click the “Run” button. Then the AI will start working. In just a few seconds, you will see new images on your screen. Specifically, the AI often makes several at once. As a result, you can look at them side by side. For each image, you can open it bigger. Additionally, you can save it to your computer. Likewise, you can copy it. Furthermore, you can send it to Google Drive. In short, do whatever works best for you.
Step 6: Try Again if You Need To
Sometimes the first images are not quite right. However, that is okay. Instead, go back to your prompt. Then add more details. Next, change the style. After that, be more specific about colors. Then run it again. In conclusion, keep trying until you get what you want. Consequently, this is how you learn to work with the AI.
How to Edit Images
Once you know how to make images, you can learn to edit them. Specifically, here are the main ways to change pictures you already have.
Change One Part of an Image
This is called inpainting. Specifically, you pick one area of a picture. Then you tell the AI what should go there. Consequently, the AI fills that spot with new content. Meanwhile, the rest of the picture stays the same.
Here is how it works. First, you give the AI your image. Next, you make a mask over the part you want to change. Then you type what should be there now. For example, you could mask a table and type “a vase of flowers.” As a result, the AI will put flowers on the table. Moreover, everything else stays just like it was.
Additionally, you can also let the AI make the mask for you. In this case, you just give it the image and the prompt. Consequently, the AI figures out what area to change. Therefore, this is easier when you are not sure what to change.
Make Your Picture Bigger
This is called outpainting. Specifically, you add space around your image. Then the AI fills that space with new content. Moreover, it matches what is already there. Consequently, this is great for changing the shape of your picture. For instance, you can turn a square into a rectangle. Similarly, you can add more sky above a landscape. As a result, the AI makes it all fit together.
Edit with a Chat
Additionally, Gemini has a special way to edit images. Specifically, you can talk to it like a friend. First, you ask for changes one at a time. Importantly, the AI remembers what you did before. Consequently, you can have a real conversation about your edits.
For example, you might say, “Take out the pancakes and add an omelet.” Consequently, the AI does that. Then you say, “Now put the omelet in the middle of the pan.” Subsequently, the AI does that too. In fact, it keeps track of your image through all the changes. Therefore, this feels very natural and easy.
Imagen AI Tips for Good Prompts
The words you type matter a lot. Specifically, good prompts make good images. Here is how to write prompts that work.
If you want to read about SeeDance2.0, click here.
Be Very Specific
First and foremost, tell the AI exactly what you want. Specifically, name the main thing in the picture. Additionally, say what it is doing. Moreover, say where it is. Furthermore, use color words. Likewise, use words about texture. Finally, use words about the background.
Bad prompt: “a dog in a park.”
Good prompt: “a golden retriever puppy on a red blanket in a sunny park with green trees and yellow flowers and a blue sky.”
Consequently, see the difference? Specifically, the good prompt gives the AI a clear picture of what to make.
Say What Style You Want
Secondly, tell the AI what kind of image you want. For instance, do you want a photo? If so, say “photorealistic.” On the other hand, do you want a painting? Then say “watercolor” or “oil painting.” Similarly, do you want something digital? In that case, say “3D render.” Consequently, these words change how the AI makes your image.
For example, “a watercolor painting of a lighthouse at sunset” looks very different from “a photorealistic photo of a lighthouse at sunset.” Ultimately, both can be good. However, it just depends on what you want.
Set the Mood with Words
Third, use words that describe feelings. Specifically, words like “cozy,” “mysterious,” “peaceful,” or “dramatic.” Consequently, these words help the AI understand the feeling you want. As a result, your images will have more emotion when you do this.
For instance, try “a cozy cabin in the snow with warm lights on.” This feels very different from “a cold cabin in the snow.” Therefore, the mood words make a big difference.
Use Camera Words for Photos
Fourth, do you want your image to look like a real photo? If yes, use words that photographers use. Specifically, talk about the angle. Additionally, talk about the light. Moreover, talk about what is in focus. For example, say “close-up” or “wide shot.” Likewise, say “soft light from the left” or “harsh sunlight.” Furthermore, say “blurred background” or “sharp focus on the eyes.” Consequently, these words make your images look more like real photos.
Imagen AI Common Questions
Is Imagen AI free?
Yes, you can use it for free with Gemini and ImageFX. Specifically, you just need a Google account. However, if you need enterprise features through Vertex AI, it costs money based on how much you use it.
What file types does it make?
It makes JPEG and PNG files mostly. Additionally, for editing, it can also work with RAW and DNG files from cameras. Moreover, images can be up to 2K quality with Imagen 4.
Can I use images for my business?
Yes, but check the rules first. Specifically, Vertex AI has special protection for business use. However, some free versions might have limits on commercial use. Therefore, read the terms for the version you pick.
How is it different from DALL-E?
Imagen is very good at realistic photos. Additionally, it also works well with text in many languages. Moreover, it connects to other Google tools easily. On the other hand, DALL-E is also good but works differently. Consequently, try both and see which one you like better.
Can I edit my own photos?
Yes, you can. Specifically, the editing tools work on any image you upload. In fact, they do not have to be made by Imagen. Consequently, you can fix and change your own pictures.
What languages does it understand?
It works with English, Chinese, Hindi, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, and Spanish. Moreover, you can even type in one language and get text in another. For example, type in Spanish and get Portuguese words in your image.
What’s Next for Your Images?
Imagen makes still pictures. However, it does not make videos. Therefore, if you want to animate your images, you need other tools. Specifically, some video editors can turn your pictures into short videos. Additionally, you can add music and movement. As a result, you can make your images come to life. Consequently, this is great for social media or presentations.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Imagen AI is a powerful tool that anyone can use. Specifically, you can make amazing images from just words. Additionally, you can fix and change pictures you already have. Moreover, you can explore many different styles. Ultimately, the key is to write good prompts and keep trying.
First, start with Gemini to see what it can do. Next, move to Google AI Studio when you want more control. Then use Vertex AI if you need it for business. With practice, you will learn how to get exactly what you want. Furthermore, the technology keeps getting better. In fact, each new version brings more detail and better understanding.
Therefore, go ahead and try it. Specifically, type something fun and see what happens. Consequently, you might be surprised at what you can make. In the end, your imagination is the only limit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need a powerful computer?
A: No, you do not. Specifically, everything runs on Google’s computers. Consequently, you just need a web browser and internet. Moreover, you can use a phone, tablet, or any computer.
Q: How long does it take?
A: Just a few seconds usually. Specifically, Fast mode is quicker. On the other hand, Ultra mode takes longer but gives more detail. Therefore, pick what works for your needs.
Q: Can I make many images at once?
A: Yes, you can. Specifically, just set the number in the settings. Consequently, the AI will make several and show them to you. Then you can pick your favorite.
Q: Does it save my pictures?
A: You control that. Specifically, you can save them to your computer or Google Drive. Additionally, the site might keep them for a while, but you decide what to keep forever.
Q: What if my image looks wrong?
A: Change your prompt. Specifically, add more details. Additionally, be more specific. Moreover, try different words. Consequently, small changes can make big differences. Therefore, keep trying until you get it right.
Q: Are there things I cannot make?
A: Yes, the AI has safety rules. Specifically, it will not make harmful or inappropriate content. Consequently, this keeps the tool safe for everyone to use.