# The AI Generation Workflow in Image Editor

Generating or editing images with AI in Fater's **Image Editor** follows a general workflow. Understanding these steps will help you effectively use the various AI models available.

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### Core Workflow Steps:

1. **Prepare Your Canvas & Context:**
   * **Layers:** Ensure the correct layers are visible and arranged in the **Layers Tab**. The AI often considers the composite view of visible layers within the Generation Area as its input or context.
   * **Generation Area Bounding Box:** Adjust this dashed rectangle to define the precise region where you want the AI to operate. This is crucial for focus and detail.
   * **Mask (for Editing/Inpainting):** If you're modifying an existing image (e.g., inpainting or object removal), create a precise **Mask** over the area you want the AI to change.
   * **Control Layers (for Controlled Generation):** If using a "Controlled" model, prepare and designate your **Edges or Depth map layer(s)** in the Control Layers section of the Layers Tab.
2. **Select an AI Model:**
   * Go to the **Model Selector** in the Left Sidebar.
   * Choose the **Category** (Generate, Edit, Upscale), **SubCategory** (Basic, Controlled, Special), and **Control Type** (Contour/Edges, Depth) if applicable.
   * Select the specific **user-facing model name** you want to use.
3. **Configure Model-Specific Parameters:**
   * Once a model is selected, its parameters will appear in the Left Sidebar below the Model Selector.
   * Adjust settings like **Prompt, Negative Prompt, Steps, Guidance, Seed**, and any other controls specific to that model (e.g., Style Type, Mask Alpha Radius, Upscale Scale).
   * *(Refer to the* [ai-models](https://fater.gitbook.io/fater-ai-docs/reference-materials/ai-models "mention") *for details on each model's parameters).*
4. **Write/Refine Your Text Prompt:**
   * In the **Floating Prompt Area** at the bottom of the editor, enter a clear and descriptive text prompt.
   * If you're editing, describe the changes you want within the masked area. If generating, describe the entire scene or subject.
   * You can also use the **Voice Input** button here (On Chrome).
5. **Upload Reference Images (if applicable):**
   * If the selected model supports **External Reference Images**, upload them using the designated input area in the Left Sidebar.
6. **Initiate Generation:**
   * Click the **Generate** button (✨ Sparkles icon) in the Floating Prompt Area.
   * The button will indicate "Generating..." while the request is being preparred.
   * If the task was launched correctly, it will appears in the task list as loading, you can continue working and launch different generations during the task processing time.
7. **Review and Use Results:**
   * The **first generated image is automatically added as a new layer** at the top of your layer stack, typically positioned correctly (e.g., within the masked area for inpainting).
   * Thumbnails for all generated outputs appear in the **Generation Task List** above the prompt input.
   * **Click a different thumbnail** to swap the current result layer with the new selection.
   * You can then further edit this new layer, adjust its opacity, visibility, or merge it down.

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### Iterative Process

AI image generation is often an iterative process:

* **Analyze:** Look at the generated result. Does it match your vision?
* **Refine:**
  * Adjust your **Prompt** or **Negative Prompt**.
  * Tweak **Model Parameters** (e.g., Guidance, Steps, Seed).
  * Modify your **Mask** or **Control Layer**.
  * Change the **Generation Area Bounding Box**.
* **Regenerate:** Click "Generate" again.

Using a **locked Seed** can be very helpful for making small adjustments to prompts or parameters while keeping the overall composition similar. Restoring a layer's configuration using the **"Restore Layer Config"** feature can also help you revisit and iterate on previous settings.

By following these steps and iterating, you can achieve a wide range of creative outcomes with Fater's AI image generation tools.