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How to create an AI image from text

Turn a written idea into a still image with the right settings.

Beginner 5 min read · 5 stepsTry Create image

Learning path: Create a product ad · Guide 1 of 4

0 of 5 steps completeSaved on this browser

Before you begin

Tool and model controls beside the prompt show the current selection. Select those names to open their menus.

  • A signed-in account and available credits.
  • A written description; a reference image is not required for this tool.

What you’ll achieve: A generated still image saved with its prompt and settings.

Model choices

To explore unrestricted AI image generation, open Change model and choose from Less restrictive. Compare its supported formats and price before sending. Switching to a Moderated model changes the model policy as well as its image capabilities.

Choose Create image

Open Create image from the Images group or Change tool. Check the active tool label before entering your prompt so you do not accidentally start a reference-edit workflow.

Step 1 · Create image — Change tool
Tong Create image interface for “Choose Create image”, with the Create image — Change tool control highlighted by arrow 1.

Step 1: Create image — Change tool

100%Zoom, then scroll to inspect a control.
Next step

Describe the image

Write the subject, composition, environment and light in the prompt field. A useful example is: a blue ceramic house on a pale wooden table, soft afternoon light, eye-level view.

Step 2 · Describe what you want to create
Tong Create image interface for “Describe the image”, with the Describe what you want to create control highlighted by arrow 2.

Step 2: Describe what you want to create

100%Zoom, then scroll to inspect a control.
Next step

Choose the image model

Use Change model to compare the current image choices. Select one that suits your intended image and check the price shown for that model.

Step 3 · Change model
Tong Create image interface for “Choose the image model”, with the Change model control highlighted by arrow 3.

Step 3: Change model

100%Zoom, then scroll to inspect a control.
Next step

Set the image format

Open Settings and select a supported aspect ratio and any relevant image options. Keep optional controls at their defaults until you have a reason to change them, then select Done.

Step 4 · Aspect ratio
Tong Create image interface for “Set the image format”, with the Aspect ratio control highlighted by arrow 4.

Step 4: Aspect ratio

100%Zoom, then scroll to inspect a control.
Next step

Check the price and send

Review the visible credit price and the final prompt, then select Send prompt when ready. Wait for the result rather than sending the same request repeatedly. Open the image to inspect it and save/download it from the result or Library.

Step 5 · Send prompt
Tong Create image interface for “Check the price and send”, with the Send prompt control highlighted by arrow 5.

Step 5: Send prompt

100%Zoom, then scroll to inspect a control.
Try it in Tong

A useful tip

For a product photo, specify the material, shape, surface, light and camera view. Brand lettering can require additional editing and should be checked carefully.

If something goes wrong

If the output misses a detail, make a specific new request or use the reference-edit tool on the saved result. If generation fails, inspect its saved status and recovery action before resubmitting.

Read first, create when you’re ready

Reading this guide is free. The linked tool shows its own requirements and current credit price. Screenshots use demonstration data; review your own inputs and the quoted cost before submitting paid work.

Reviewed 2026-10-18 · Tong Academy