AI-generated images for your website?

Image generation is one of the most exciting applications of artificial intelligence. Tools such as Midjourney and DALL-E can create striking images from simple text descriptions in seconds. But are they suitable for creating images for attractive, professional websites?

Image generation tools are great for exploring creativity and making unique pictures you will not find elsewhere. You could create a dragon breathing fire over a rainbow or a cat wearing a hat and glasses. You do not need specialist hardware or software: it works online. You can also use your own images to influence the style and composition.

Stock photos, meanwhile, help you find professional, high-quality images that match your website’s theme and purpose. You can choose from millions of photographs taken around the world.

Both options also have disadvantages.

Image generation tools are not perfect and may produce unrealistic, blurred or unsuitable pictures. You do not have complete control, because the AI interprets your description in its own way. You must also consider the tool’s community guidelines and terms of use, including restrictions on harmful, offensive or controversial images.

Stock photography has limitations too. It can be expensive, particularly if you need many images or a premium subscription. Images can feel generic, dull or clichéd because many websites use them. They may also fail to convey exactly what you want, as they were not created for your message.

So which option is best for a professional website? At the time of this January 2024 article, our preference was stock photography for its consistency, quality and professional appearance. Image generation was exciting and innovative, but we considered it better suited to exploring ideas and making sketches than replacing stock photos in finished websites.

Need help creating or finding suitable website content? Contact us to discuss how we can help.