I used Leonardo to create images with artificial intelligence, and I can't believe how realistic they are.
How you can do it yourself.
One of the main complaints about AI-based image generators is that the "photographic" images they produce are often easily identifiable as non-photographic. However, improvements in various models have begun to challenge that perception, and a clear example of this is Leonardo.AI.
Like other AI image generators, Leonardo.AI converts textual descriptions and other sources into vivid, detailed visuals. The surprising thing is that even with a free account, users can obtain astonishingly realistic images.
To start generating images with Leonardo.AI, it is necessary to register for a free account, which allows users to create multiple images daily. To achieve effective photographic realism, it is advisable to use the model/preset options offered by the platform. Although each option has its advantages, the Cinematic Kino option stood out as the most suitable for obtaining high-quality photographic images.
In the free version, users automatically receive four images for each request, and from various tests, several results can be highlighted. For example, using a description like “An ancient knight in shining armor,” a portrait was generated that captured all the intricate details of the warrior's armor, showcasing an impressive play of light and shadow. Another example came from inserting a prompt about “an enigmatic sorcerer in an alley,” creating an evocative image that combined elements of fantasy and dark realism.
Leonardo.AI also offers the possibility of helping to refine general ideas. By entering a concept like "a steampunk character enjoying New York," the AI generated a more detailed prompt that included descriptions about the wardrobe and environment, demonstrating that richness in adjectives is key to producing better images.
Additionally, users can ask the AI to generate prompts based on uploaded images. For instance, by uploading a personal photo, the resulting description was notably accurate in several aspects. Experimenting with this description and a preset called "soft retro-future," the result was a creative interpretation, although quite distant from the original appearance.
The free plan of Leonardo.AI has its limitations, but it proves useful for occasional uses. A subscription starting at $10 per month offers access to advanced features like Fast Mode, which speeds up image creation and provides more credits. Premium functionalities are also highlighted, such as personalized model training, where the AI adjusts to specific aesthetic preferences and offers outputs with higher resolution, ideal for prints.
While the free level has its restrictions, it is satisfying to find an image generator that can create characters that seem to fit, whether in a real context or in a fantasy movie.
