A Beginner’s Guide

In the digital age, the fusion of art and technology has given rise to innovative platforms like Leonardo AI, a remarkable tool for AI-powered image generation and editing. Designed to democratize creativity, Leonardo AI is an intuitive platform that offers a suite of tools allowing both novices and seasoned artists to explore the realms of digital creation. Let’s dive into how Leonardo AI is changing the game for creators everywhere.

First Steps into the Leonardo Universe

Getting started with Leonardo AI is a breeze. New users can easily sign up using their Apple, Google, or Microsoft accounts, or an email address. The journey begins with a brief questionnaire designed to tailor the experience to each user’s preferences, followed by the creation of a unique username. This personalised approach ensures that every artist, regardless of her or his experience level, feels welcomed and understood from the get-go.

Navigating the Platform

Upon entering Leonardo’s main homepage, users are greeted by a community feed of images, a vibrant showcase of creativity that serves as both inspiration and a testament to the platform’s capabilities. At a glance, six different tools are available:

• Image Generation: Transform textual prompts into stunning visuals.
• Realtime Canvas: A dynamic space for real-time creation.
• Canvas Editor: Refine and edit your creations with ease.
• Motion: Bring your images to life with animation.
• Realtime Generator: Generate images in realtime.
• Universal Upscaler: Enhance your images’ resolution without compromising quality.

With 150 daily tokens provided in the free plan, users are encouraged to experiment while managing their resources wisely. Upgrading to a paid plan unlocks even more creative possibilities, but even without spending a penny, the world of AI art is at your fingertips.

Creating Your First AI Art

The magic begins with the Image Generation tool. By inputting a textual prompt, users can conjure up images limited only by their imagination. However, it’s important to note the cost in tokens varies depending on the settings chosen, such as the Alchemy option, which enhances the creativity of the generated images but at a higher token price.

A pro tip for managing tokens effectively is to plan your creations carefully knowing that the daily reset will happen at midnight (local time), ensuring you make the most of each token. Combining Leonardo’s capabilities with tools like ChatGPT can further enhance your creative process, offering refined prompts and suggestions to explore new artistic directions.

I used the Leonardo AI Prompt Maker GPT in ChatGPT4.0 to create better Leonardo prompts. I first asked for a prompt depicting a forest to be generated:
“Create a photorealistic image capturing the serene beauty of a dense forest bathed in the soft, golden light of early morning. The camera angle should be from the ground level, looking through a myriad of tall, ancient trees with thick trunks and lush, green foliage. Rays of sunlight pierce through the canopy, creating a mystical play of light and shadow on the forest floor, which is covered in a carpet of ferns and fallen leaves. The air seems filled with a misty glow, adding to the ethereal atmosphere. The focus is on capturing the intricate details of the forest’s textures, from the roughness of the tree bark to the delicate veins in the leaves, showcasing the forest’s vibrant ecosystem in high resolution. Lighting should be natural, highlighting the contrast between the warm sunlight and the cool, shadowed areas, with a depth of field that adds a sense of depth and immersion.”

Then I asked for a prompt depicting a female model in a studio:
“Create a photorealistic image capturing a female model in a high fashion editorial studio setup. The background is abstract, possibly with geometric shapes or a gradient, designed to complement the avant-garde style of her outfit. The fashion is bold and forward-thinking, featuring unconventional silhouettes, textures, and colors. Lighting is dramatic, with a mix of hard and soft lights to create a striking contrast, highlighting the unique elements of her attire and the artistic makeup that accentuates her features. The model’s pose is dynamic and expressive, conveying movement and attitude that reflect the cutting-edge nature of the fashion. The camera angle is slightly low, enhancing her stature and the impact of the pose. This image is aimed at capturing the fusion of art and fashion, presenting the model and her ensemble as a bold statement of contemporary style.”

Then I asked for a prompt depicting a supercar:
“Craft a photorealistic image of a high-octane yellow Porsche 911 supercar racing on a professional track, capturing the essence of speed and competition. The scene is set against the backdrop of a well-known racetrack, with the supercar in full throttle, tires gripping the asphalt as it navigates a challenging corner. The design of the car is a testament to performance engineering, with its low stance, wide tires, and aerodynamic spoilers. The lighting should be dynamic, emphasizing the intensity of the race and the focus of the driver. The camera angle is close to the ground, tracking the car as it speeds by, blurring the track and the surrounding environment to convey a sense of incredible speed. This image should evoke the adrenaline rush of racing, showcasing the supercar’s power, agility, and the thrilling atmosphere of motorsport.”

Then I asked for a prompt depicting a classic supercar:
“Generate a photorealistic image of a beautifully restored classic car parked beside a tranquil mountain lake in the early dawn light. The car, a symbol of elegance and craftsmanship from a bygone era, is perfectly complemented by the serene beauty of its surroundings. The rising sun casts a soft, golden glow over the scene, illuminating the car’s polished chrome and vibrant paintwork. The backdrop features towering mountains reflected in the still, clear waters of the lake, adding to the peaceful and timeless atmosphere. The lighting should capture the gentle transition from night to day, highlighting the contours and details of the classic car against the natural beauty of the lake and mountains. The camera angle is from the side, showcasing the car’s profile with the breathtaking landscape in the background. This image should evoke a sense of tranquillity and nostalgia, celebrating the enduring appeal of classic automobiles.”

Beyond Image Generation

Leonardo AI doesn’t stop at creating static images. The platform allows users to play with dimensions, styles, and even motion, adding a dynamic layer to digital creations. The Universal Upscaler is a game-changer for artists looking to bring their work into high-definition reality, while the motion tool adds a mesmerizing animated effect to still images.

Your Canvas Awaits

Leonardo AI represents a new frontier in digital art, making advanced AI technology accessible to creators of all skill levels. Whether you’re a budding artist eager to explore the potential of AI or a seasoned creator looking for innovative tools, Leonardo AI offers a playground of possibilities.

If you’ve been inspired to embark on your own AI art journey, remember, that the key is to experiment, explore, and enjoy the process. The world of Leonardo AI is your canvas, and the only limit is your imagination.

Did you like this blog post? Make sure to check our YouTube video on Leonardo, and if you like it, don’t forget to hit the like button and subscribe for more insights into the fascinating world of AI and digital art. Your journey into the future of creativity starts here.