Introduction to AI image generation

Learn how to create photographs, illustrations, diagrams and simple animations using the latest AI image generation tools.

This course explores the rapid rise of generative AI and how it's transforming visual creation for everyone, from designers and marketers to small business owners producing social media content, posters or web visuals, as well as artists using AI in their creative workflow.

What does the course cover?

It covers a broad range of topics related to creative AI including:

• An overview of current tools and technologies.
• What can and can't be done with AI.
• Issues of ownership, copyright and the law.
• Getting set up with tools and techniques.
• A deep dive into several best-of-breed free imaging apps such as Google Gemini, ChatGPT and Grok Imagine.
• A deep dive into some popular paid services: Midjourney and krea.ai (note that an account with these tools is not needed for the course but probably worth subscribing for at least one month).
• A deep dive into animation and video creation using the apps indicated above along with dedicated motion tools such as Sora, Runway, Kling and Wan.
• Editing, extending and refining results.
• Exporting and saving results for social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram.
• Exporting results for websites, printing, or your own personal collection.

What will I achieve?

By the end of this course, you will feel confident creating images and short video pieces using a range of easy to access AI applications.

You'll gain a practical understanding of how generative AI tools work, what they can help you achieve right now and how these technologies may continue to develop in the future.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

The course is suitable for beginners and does not require prior knowledge. However, you will need to be a reasonably confident user of a Mac or PC and feel confident navigating a web browser.

It also covers some more advanced topics, so even if you already have experience with digital graphics or image creation, you will still find plenty to challenge and extend your skills.

How is the class taught and will there be any work outside the class?

The course is delivered in an active, participatory way. Your instructor will introduce each topic, explain key concepts and then guide you through practical tasks during the session, with support available as needed.

There will also be some optional homework between sessions, and we will work towards a personal project that you can continue developing according to your interest.

Eligibility requirements

The course is suitable for beginners and does not require prior knowledge. However, you will need to be a reasonably confident user of a Mac or PC and feel confident navigating a web browser.

We will also cover some more advanced topics, so even if you already have experience with digital graphics or image creation, you will still find plenty to challenge and extend your skills.