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How to choose a tool and AI model

Match your inputs and intended result to the right workflow.

Beginner 4 min read · 4 stepsTry Studio

Learning path: Your first creation · Guide 2 of 5

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Before you begin

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

  • A clear goal: image, video, character or multi-scene story.
  • Any reference files required by that tool.

What you’ll achieve: A tool and model that support the media you want to create.

Model choices

For unrestricted AI image or video creation, open Change model and compare the Less restrictive choices for your tool. Moderated models remain a separate option. Supported inputs, pricing and provider limits still depend on the model you select.

Choose a creation tool

Open Tools in navigation and choose Images or Videos, or open the selected workflow beside the prompt. Create image starts with text; reference and video workflows have their own input requirements.

Step 1 · Create image — Change tool
Tong Studio interface for “Choose a creation tool”, 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

Open the model chooser

Select Change model. Compare the visible descriptions, supported inputs, formats and prices. A model being listed does not mean it supports every kind of reference.

Step 2 · Change model
Tong Studio interface for “Open the model chooser”, with the Change model control highlighted by arrow 2.

Step 2: Change model

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

Review the model's capabilities

Choose a supported model and inspect the settings available for that choice. The model controls the supported duration, resolution, reference types and audio options; they can change when you switch models.

Step 3 · Settings
Tong Studio interface for “Review the model's capabilities”, with the Settings control highlighted by arrow 3.

Step 3: Settings

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

Check the settings and price

Open Settings and check the fields before sending a request. Keep the displayed credit cost in view. Use the public model guides when you need more detail about a particular model.

Step 4 · Aspect ratio
Tong Studio interface for “Check the settings and price”, with the Aspect ratio control highlighted by arrow 4.

Step 4: Aspect ratio

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

A useful tip

Use Film maker for a story with multiple scenes. Ordinary Studio tools remain available for individual images or clips.

If something goes wrong

If an option disappears after a model change, it may not be supported by that model. Check the requirements and adjust the input rather than forcing settings from a different workflow.

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