A reference image gives the AI visual context when generating a new image. It's completely optional - you can generate images with just a text prompt.
When you include a reference image, the AI can incorporate specific visual elements, settings, or styles from that image into what it generates.
How to use a reference image
Step 1: Upload to Files
Before you can use a reference image, it must already be in your Files.
Go to My Account → Files
Click Upload File
Upload the image you want to use as reference
Step 2: Generate with reference
Once your reference image is uploaded:
Go to My Account → Files
Click the dropdown arrow next to Upload Files
Select Generate Image
Enter your prompt
Click the reference image selector
Choose your uploaded file from the list
The AI will use your reference image as visual context when generating the new image.
When should I use a reference image?
Reference images are helpful when you want the AI to:
Incorporate a specific location or setting
Instead of describing "my apartment with beige walls, brown couch, and a window on the left," just upload a photo of your apartment and let the AI see it.
Match a particular style or composition
If you have an example of the visual style you want, show it. The AI can match aesthetic elements, layout, or composition.
Build on something you've already annotated
Upload a photo where you've hand-drawn arrows or labels, then ask the AI to create a professional version with clean annotations in the same spots.
Make creative illustrations feel more personal
Generating an igloo inside "an apartment"? Generic.
Generating an igloo inside your recognizable apartment? Much more impactful.
What a reference image is NOT
It's not for fabricating evidence
You cannot upload a real photo and ask the AI to add fake damage, conditions, or evidence that doesn't exist. That's fraud.
Allowed: Upload a photo of your apartment and generate a creative igloo illustration inside it
Prohibited: Upload a photo of your apartment and ask the AI to add water damage, mold, or cracks that aren't really there
Reference images help you illustrate real situations creatively - never to fabricate false ones.
For more on appropriate use, see: When Words Aren't Enough: Using Generate Image
Cost
Using a reference image costs an additional $0.25 on top of the base generation fee.
Without reference image: $0.25
With reference image: $0.50 ($0.25 base + $0.25 reference fee)
When generating images through an active Problem using Loophole AI & Tools, images are handled by Create Console and use Tool Action Credits instead.
Tips for using reference images effectively
Be specific in your prompt about what to keep vs. what to change
The AI needs clear direction. If you upload a photo of your living room and just say "make it winter themed," you might get unpredictable results. Instead: "Using my living room as the setting, add snow falling outside the window and a pile of presents near the couch."
Reference images work best when they're clear and well-lit
Blurry, dark, or cluttered reference images give the AI less useful information.
You still need a good prompt
The reference image provides visual context - your prompt provides creative direction. Both matter.
Do I need a reference image?
No. Most image generations work perfectly fine with just a detailed text prompt.
Use a reference image when you want the AI to incorporate specific visual elements from an existing photo. Skip it when you're starting from scratch or when your prompt alone describes what you need.