122 · Create and Sell AI-Generated Images

• Here's the program
• Why is selling AI-generated images a good idea?
• What is a “prompt” and why is it essential?
• Guide to mastering the art of the prompt
• What are the best platforms for creating images with AI?
• Where can you sell AI-generated images?
• How to stand out in a competitive market
• What legal aspects should be considered?
• Tips and tricks
• Conclusion
• EcoTips
• Pros and Cons
• Information recap

Why is selling AI-generated images a good idea?

Today, artificial intelligence is revolutionizing many sectors, and image creation is no exception. With increasingly accessible tools, it’s now possible to generate visuals with just a few clicks, thanks to AI models capable of understanding and interpreting “prompts” (I’ll explain this in a moment). The potential here is enormous: content creators, companies, or even individuals need images for their websites, social media posts, or personal projects.

With the continuous growth of online media and the multiplication of visual content needs, the demand for unique and high-quality images has never been stronger. Many are seeking alternatives to costly photo shoots or hours spent on graphic design work. This is where artificial intelligence comes in, offering a quick and efficient solution to meet this demand while cutting production costs.

Moreover, this is still a relatively new market. Of course, competition already exists, but it’s not yet saturated like in other graphic design or traditional photography sectors. With the right tools and strategies, you can quickly position yourself in specific niches by providing visuals that capture attention and meet buyers’ needs.

Finally, selling AI-generated images doesn’t require in-depth technical skills. You don’t need to be a graphic designer or developer to succeed in this field. What matters is your creativity, your ability to master “prompts,” and especially your sense of trends and market needs.

What is a “prompt” and why is it essential?

A “prompt” is a text instruction you give to an artificial intelligence to indicate what you want it to create. In practice, it’s a bit like giving instructions to an artist, except here the AI interprets your words to generate an image. The prompt can be very simple, like “a man walking in the rain,” or more complex and detailed by specifying, for example, colors, artistic styles, or specific elements to include.

The precision and clarity of the prompt are essential because they directly influence the quality and relevance of the generated visual. In other words, the better you can formulate your requests, the more the results will meet your expectations. To get impactful images, you need to learn how to use prompts well. This means knowing how to adjust the details, testing different formulations, and sometimes experimenting to see what the AI is capable of producing.

You need to know how to write an explicit prompt to be able to sell AI-generated images. Here’s the one I used to generate the image illustrating this article. AI generator : Freepik.

Guide to mastering the art of the prompt

Asking an AI to create an image without a good prompt is a bit like verbally asking your cat to go take a shower and then cut its nails… the result won’t be what you expect. So, let’s take a look at a few key steps to mastering the art of the prompt and getting results that meet your expectations.

1Be precise but not too much

The first golden rule is to find the right balance between precision and simplicity. A prompt that is too vague (“a landscape”) risks producing a generic image, while one that is too complex or detailed can make the result confusing. The goal is to guide the AI without stifling it. For example, instead of simply asking for “a dog,” try “a white dog with green eyes lying in the grass at sunset.” This gives the AI enough information to generate something more unique while remaining clear.

2Use adjectives and styles

Adjectives are your best friends for guiding creation. Play with colors, shapes, emotions, and artistic styles. If you want to get an artistic image, don’t hesitate to specify terms like “minimalist,” “surrealist,” or “watercolor style.” For example, a prompt like “a smiling dog, watercolor style, pastel background” will give a very different result from “a smiling dog, realistic, dark background.” You can even mention eras or artistic movements for even more precision.

3Structure your prompt

A good practice is to structure your prompt in different parts. For example: start by describing the main object (subject), then add details about the environment (context), and finally, finish with specifics about the style or atmosphere you want to achieve. For example: “A vintage airplane flying over a golden wheat field under a bright blue sky in a 1950s retro style.” This method allows you to guide the AI well while making the instructions clear and coherent.

4Experiment and adjust

Mastering prompts also requires experimentation. Don’t be afraid to test several versions of the same prompt to see how the AI reacts. Change a word or two, add details, remove some, and compare the results. This trial-and-error process is essential to refining your prompts and better understanding how the AI interprets your instructions.

5Study what works

An excellent way to progress quickly is to observe the creations of others. Many AI image creation platforms also allow you to see the prompts used by creators. Analyze those that give the best results and draw inspiration from them to create your own.

Examples of images generated with Stable Diffusion

What are the best platforms for creating images with AI?

The choice of platform where you will generate your AI images is important because each tool offers different features and levels of customization. Some are ideal for beginners, while others cater to those seeking more control and flexibility. Here’s an overview of the most efficient platforms to meet various needs.

MidJourney

MidJourney is one of the most popular and appreciated platforms for generating AI images. It’s ideal for creators looking to produce artistic, sometimes surreal visuals with astonishing realism. It excels in creating breathtaking landscapes and detailed scenes.

The MidJourney community is also very active, offering resources and examples to improve your prompts. If you want a highly creative rendering with meticulous details, this platform is an excellent choice, even for beginners.

DALL·E

DALL·E, developed by OpenAI, is accessible via ChatGPT, providing a simplified user experience. This allows beginners to easily generate images from prompts without dealing with complex configurations.

More advanced users will appreciate its ability to produce detailed visuals from complex descriptions. This versatile tool is suitable for both simple illustrations and more sophisticated creations, while benefiting from the synergy between image generation and conversation with AI through ChatGPT.

Stable Diffusion

For those seeking total control over the creation process, Stable Diffusion is an excellent option. Unlike other platforms, it is open source, which means you can use it locally on your machine if you wish, offering great flexibility.

It requires a bit more technical knowledge, but in return, you benefit from many customization options. It’s ideal if you want to push the boundaries of AI creation by adjusting parameters like resolution, style, or specific image details.

Adobe Firefly

Adobe Firefly is an AI platform developed by Adobe, specifically designed for professional creators. Integrated into the Adobe ecosystem (Photoshop, Illustrator), it allows you to generate images directly within these programs, providing great ease of use for those already working in this environment. It’s a perfect solution for those seeking professional-quality visuals with advanced customization.

FLUX.1

FLUX.1 stands out for its ability to generate high-resolution AI images. Suitable for projects requiring impeccable image quality, it’s ideal for creators looking to produce visuals for large-format prints or projects requiring extremely precise details. FLUX.1 offers an intuitive interface, making it accessible to a wide audience. Note that FLUX.1 is also open source.

Ideogram

Ideogram focuses on generating images that include text, an area where many AIs are still struggling at the time of writing this article. If you need to create visuals combining graphic and typographic elements (like posters, banners, or logos), Ideogram is the tool you need.

Artbreeder

Artbreeder stands out for its collaborative approach and intuitive interface. Rather than generating images from detailed prompts, this platform allows you to cross and mix different visuals to achieve unique results. You can thus modify specific parameters such as style, colors, or even the traits of generated characters. It’s an excellent option for creators who like to experiment visually and play with variables without delving too much into technical details.

Deep Dream Generator

If you’re looking for a more abstract or psychedelic rendering, Deep Dream Generator is the tool for you. It is particularly suitable for those who want to explore new artistic styles or create visuals that are out of the ordinary. The AI transforms your photos and descriptions into colorful and detailed works of art. It may not be the most versatile tool, but it excels in creating unique and artistic visual works.

The choice of platform depends on your needs and your level of mastery. If you’re a beginner, options like DALL·E or MidJourney are perfect for quickly getting started. For more advanced users looking for more control, Stable Diffusion or Artbreeder offer almost infinite possibilities. Each platform has its advantages, so feel free to test several to find the one that best matches your creative style.

How much does it cost?

Some AI image creation platforms offer free options, but often with limited features or a restricted number of images generated. For example, tools like DALL·E offer a monthly free quota that allows you to generate a few dozen images before having to switch to a paid plan. Others, like MidJourney or Stable Diffusion, require a subscription to access all features or get high-resolution images.

These costs can vary between $10 and $50 per month depending on the platform and the level of access chosen. For someone who wants to regularly generate images for commercial use, planning a monthly budget of around $20 to $30 for access to multiple tools is reasonable.

If you have no budget and little experience in creating AI images, Runway offers 125 free credits for use in a wide range of tools. Ideal for training before taking the next step.

Where can you sell AI-generated images?

Once your AI-generated images are ready, several options are available for selling them online. Here, I’ll walk you through the most effective and suitable options depending on your objectives.

Traditional image marketplaces

Well-known platforms like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock and iStock are prime places to sell your AI-generated images. These sites are visited daily by thousands of potential buyers, such as marketers, designers, and businesses. Although competition is high, these marketplaces provide massive visibility and offer immediate exposure. The key to success on these platforms is optimizing your keywords and descriptions, making it easier for your target audience to find your products.

Specialized AI platforms

Some marketplaces are beginning to specialize in AI-generated images. Sites like Artsi, Artgrid and Wirestock offer dedicated spaces where AI creators can showcase their works. These platforms, still in full expansion, offer a less saturated environment than the large traditional marketplaces, which may allow you to stand out more easily and capture the attention of specific customers looking for AI creations.

General marketplaces

If you prefer to sell your creations through platforms known to the general public, Etsy, Redbubble, eBay, Creative Fabrica, and even Amazon are excellent options. These marketplaces allow creators to sell their works directly to consumers, whether as digital files or even physical products.

Print-on-demand

Print-on-demand is an online sales model where products featuring a design (t-shirt, mug, cap, etc.) are only produced after being ordered. This option is appealing because there’s no need to manage physical stock or pay upfront production costs. It’s a flexible and low-risk solution to monetize your creations and diversify your income.

Create your own online store

If you want total control over your sales and aim to build your own brand, creating an online store through platforms like Shopify, Shift4shop, Wix or WooCommerce (for WordPress), or BigCommerce is an excellent option. With your own site, you set your prices, customize the user experience, and avoid marketplace commissions.

Although this requires more effort in terms of marketing and management, it’s also a great way to build a loyal customer base and create a universe around your creations. Additionally, these platforms offer simple integrations with print-on-demand services like Printful or Printify to automate printing and shipping.

Social networks

Social networks have become a sales channel in their own right. Platforms like Instagram, Pinterest and even TikTok allow you to promote your AI images to a large audience. Instagram, with its integrated shop features, is perfect for selling products directly from your posts or stories. Pinterest, on the other hand, works like a visual search engine, where your creations can quickly gain visibility through well-optimized pins.

By regularly posting your images and using relevant hashtags, you can reach potential buyers, build a community, and drive traffic to your online store or sales page.

Freelancing

In addition to using marketplaces and social networks, offering your services as an AI creator on freelancing platforms like Fiverr, UpWork or Toptal can also be a source of income. Many clients are looking for creators capable of generating customized AI images for their professional or personal projects, providing another potential income stream.

On these platforms, you can offer different types of services, whether it’s creating images on demand, producing visuals for marketing campaigns, or customizing graphic content. It’s a good way to diversify your income streams and tailor your services to the specific needs of each client.

NFT platforms

For those looking to venture into the world of NFTs (non-fungible tokens), platforms like OpenSea and Rarible allow you to sell your AI images as unique digital artworks. While this market is still evolving and requires a certain understanding of cryptocurrencies and blockchain, it offers significant revenue potential for creators seeking to innovate. NFTs allow you to sell your creations as original digital works with unique ownership rights, which attracts a public of investors and collectors.

Printful is a platform that lets you sell AI-generated images by printing them on various products such as t-shirts, mugs or caps.

How to stand out in a competitive market

As you can imagine, with the idea being so accessible, many solo entrepreneurs have quickly entered this activity. The market has thus rapidly become saturated, and to succeed, it’s no longer enough just to create pretty images. To attract buyers and succeed in this activity, it’s better to adopt a strategic approach to stand out. Here are a few avenues to explore.

Find a specific niche

Offering classic images like landscapes or animals may seem like a good starting idea, but you’ll find yourself competing with thousands of other creators. Instead, identify a more precise and underexploited area. This could be a specific theme (such as futuristic architecture, black and white abstract art, or illustrations for children) or even a unique artistic style. By targeting a specific niche, you address a smaller audience, but one that will be more interested and willing to buy your creations.

Offer vector images

Another way to stand out is to offer vector images. Unlike traditional images (bitmap), vector visuals are files that can be enlarged or reduced infinitely without losing quality, making them ideal for logos, technical illustrations, or large-format prints.

If you know how to create or convert images into vectors, this can become a real asset because clients often look for this type of file for their professional or graphic projects. Platforms like Shutterstock or Etsy gladly welcome this kind of content, often considered more versatile and valuable than traditional images.

Master the art of visual storytelling

Today, a beautiful image is no longer enough to capture attention. Clients want visuals that tell a story or evoke emotion. Learn to integrate visual storytelling into your creations. This can translate into compositions that transport the audience to a particular universe or visuals that convey a strong message.

For example, instead of simply creating an illustration of a “futuristic city,” why not imagine a series of images representing the evolution of a city over the ages? This type of narrative concept gives more depth to your creations and encourages buyers to emotionally engage with your visuals. You can do it as a triptych or separate works.

Optimize your images for SEO and platforms

To stand out, it’s crucial to ensure your images get the visibility they deserve. Even with top-tier creations, they risk going unnoticed without a good optimization strategy. Whether you’re selling your images through a platform or on your own site, make sure you properly name your files, add relevant keywords, and write optimized descriptions for each image.

This will increase your chances of appearing in search results on marketplaces and being found by potential buyers. Also, consider optimizing your images for different platforms by adjusting the dimensions and formats according to each site’s requirements.

What legal aspects should be considered?

The sale of AI-generated images raises several complex legal questions, mainly around intellectual property and copyright. While the use of AI tools is becoming common, it’s essential to understand the legal rules that apply to protect your activity and avoid legal risks.

Copyright and intellectual property

One of the main legal issues concerns the intellectual property of AI-generated images. Most global laws, like those in the United States or France, state that only works created by humans can be protected by copyright. In other words, if an image is entirely generated by AI without significant human intervention, it cannot be protected by copyright unless a human has made a substantial creative contribution to the work.

This human intervention must go beyond simple general “prompts” and involve clear artistic decisions. If this condition is met, it becomes possible to claim some ownership of the AI-generated image, but this remains subject to interpretation in each case.

AI platform rules

Each AI platform has its own terms of use, which determine the rights you have over the images you create. For example, DALL·E grants you full rights to use the images for commercial purposes, which includes selling, reproducing, and creating derivative products.

MidJourney offers a different situation. If you are a paying subscriber, you own the rights to the images you generate, but MidJourney retains a non-exclusive license to use these works. Additionally, images created as a free user are accessible to everyone and may be used without your permission. It is therefore essential to carefully read the terms of service of each platform before selling or marketing your images.

Risks of copyright infringement

Another crucial point is the possibility that AI-generated images infringe on existing copyrights. AI models are trained on vast datasets that often include copyrighted works. This raises the risk that your images may unknowingly be based on copyrighted works. For example, an AI model could generate an image that strongly resembles a work by an artist, exposing the creator of the image to lawsuits for copyright infringement.

To avoid these risks, it’s recommended to avoid using prompts that explicitly mention copyrighted works, such as movie characters or company logos. Ethical considerations are also important: selling images that mimic an artist’s unique style without their consent is generally seen as inappropriate, and in some cases, may even be illegal.

Commercial use and sales platforms

The commercial use of AI-generated images largely depends on the terms of use of the AI platforms. Some, like Shutterstock or Adobe Stock, now accept AI-generated images, provided you follow their policies and certify that the image does not infringe any copyright. Other platforms, like NFTs or online art galleries, have specific rules that should be carefully examined before offering your images for sale.

Staying informed and adapting

It’s important to note that the legislation surrounding AI-generated works is still evolving. Recent laws and judicial decisions show that the judicial system is beginning to scrutinize the implications of such works. As a result, regulations can shift rapidly, making it essential to stay informed about these changes to ensure compliance with both local and international laws.

In terms of art, copyright applies until 70 years after the artist’s death. Beyond that, the artist’s work falls into the public domain and can be legally reproduced. Therefore, nothing prevents you from creating images inspired by great masters who have been deceased for more than 70 years (Van Gogh, in this case).

Tips and tricks

Here are some practical tips to help you refine your approach and maximize your chances of success.

• Vary styles and formats: Don’t hesitate to offer images in different artistic styles and formats. In addition to classic square images, consider creating visuals adapted to website banners, wallpapers, or specific social media formats. This will increase your chances of reaching clients with diverse needs.
• Use editing tools after generation: While AI-generated images are often ready to use, adding a personal touch with software like Photoshop, GIMP oR Canva can be useful. Some color adjustments, contrast tweaking, or additional effects can make your creations more unique and professional..
• Create image collections: Instead of selling individual images, group them into thematic collections. This allows you to create coherent series that can be more attractive to buyers. For example, you could offer a pack of visuals like “futuristic urban scenes” or “animals in surreal landscapes.” Collections tend to sell better because they offer more perceived value.
• Offer free resources in exchange for emails: To build a loyal audience, offer some of your images for free download in exchange for an email address. This will help you build a list of potential clients to whom you can send your new collections or special offers via a newsletter.
• Test images on different platforms: Each marketplace has its own audience. Test your creations on multiple platforms to see which one generates the most interest and sales.
• Participate in AI creation contests: Several online communities and AI platforms organize creative contests. Participating in these events is an excellent way to gain visibility, improve your skills, and even win rewards. These contests are often followed by digital art enthusiasts and potential buyers.
• Collaborate with other creators: If you work alone, consider collaborating with graphic designers, photographers, or illustrators. You can use your AI generation skills to complement their work or vice versa. This will allow you to create more elaborate projects while accessing new networks of potential clients.
• Use AI to generate usage ideas: In addition to generating images, AI can also inspire creative ideas to promote and use your visuals. Try asking the AI (ChatGPT, Claude AI, or Gemini) to explore original product ideas, visual trends, or concepts to develop.
• Offer several types of licenses for your images: A license for personal use, another for commercial use, and an exclusive license for unique projects. This diversifies your offerings and attracts a wider clientele, ranging from individuals to businesses.
• Optimize visuals for mobile: Keep in mind the quality of your images on mobile devices. Most clients browse marketplaces via their smartphones. Ensure that your visuals are well-suited for these screens, with clear details and vibrant colors that stand out even in small formats.

Conclusion

The potential to make money with AI-generated images is very real, but your success will depend on several factors: your ability to identify a niche, create unique and attractive visuals, and optimize your online visibility. The key is to understand that it’s not enough to just generate images; you also need to invest time in the quality of prompts, SEO optimization, and adapting to client expectations.

This activity, though accessible, requires a strategic and creative approach. The more you learn to refine your prompts, adjust your creations based on the market, and experiment, the more likely you are to turn this idea into a stable source of income. If you’re ready to dive in, approach it with curiosity and persistence—creativity paired with AI opens up limitless possibilities.

As AI tools continue to improve and new technologies emerge, this market is likely to become increasingly indispensable, whether in the field of art, marketing, or content creation. Those who invest early will not only see financial gains but also establish themselves as pioneers in a rapidly evolving industry.

What do you think of this idea? Have you already experimented with AI image creation? What motivates or holds you back from starting this activity? Share your opinions, experiences, and questions in the comments!