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Create your first AI-generated image

Get started with Open Canva and create your first image in just a few minutes.
1

Sign up or log in

Create an account using one of these methods:
  • Email and password: Sign up with your email address
  • Google: Sign in with your Google account
New accounts receive 50 free credits on the Starter plan.

Account Setup Guide

Learn more about account creation and authentication options.
2

Create a session

Once logged in, click New Session in the sidebar or select an existing session.
Sessions organize your generations. Each session can contain multiple image and video generations.
3

Enter your prompt

In the prompt input field, describe the image you want to create. Be specific and descriptive:Good examples:
  • “A serene mountain landscape at sunset with snow-capped peaks and a calm lake in the foreground”
  • “A futuristic cityscape at night with neon lights and flying cars, cyberpunk style”
  • “A cozy coffee shop interior with warm lighting, wooden furniture, and plants”
Less effective:
  • “A picture”
  • “Something cool”

Writing Effective Prompts

Learn advanced techniques for writing prompts that produce better results.
4

Choose models and aspect ratio

Pick the AI models you want to use (up to four at once) and select an aspect ratio. The default 16:9 landscape works well for most use cases.
Start with a single model like Flux Schnell for fast results, then try multi-model generation to compare outputs.

AI Models

Browse 25+ image models and 20+ video models.
5

Add optional helpers

  • Reference images: Attach up to three references to guide the style and composition.
  • Prompt Assistant: Open the chat panel to get AI-powered model recommendations and prompt refinement.

Prompt Assistant

Plan generations with the AI assistant.
6

Generate your image

Click the Generate button. You’ll see:
  1. A shimmer animation while each selected model processes
  2. Real-time image appearance as each model completes
  3. One image per selected model in your session history
Generation typically takes 10-30 seconds per model depending on complexity and queue load.
7

Review and iterate

Once your image is generated:
  • View details: Click any image to see full resolution, model info, and the prompt used
  • Download: Click the download button to save your image
  • Regenerate: Try again with different prompts, models, or settings
  • Share: Save and organize your best work across sessions
Don’t be afraid to experiment! Try variations of your prompt or different models to see what works best.

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Example: Your first image

  1. Prompt: “A peaceful forest scene with tall pine trees, dappled sunlight, and a winding path”
  2. Model: Flux Schnell (fast and reliable)
  3. Aspect ratio: 16:9 landscape
  4. Generate: Click generate and wait for your image
Congratulations! You’ve created your first AI-generated image with Open Canva.

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Next steps

Video Generation

Create AI-generated videos from text or images.

Multi-Model Generation

Generate with multiple models simultaneously to compare results.

Reference Images

Upload references to guide AI output for consistent style.

Plans & Pricing

Compare plans, credits, and features.

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Common questions

Image generation typically takes 10-30 seconds per model. Video generation takes 30 seconds to several minutes depending on the model and duration.
Credit cost varies by model and output type. The generation interface shows an estimated cost before you generate. See our Credits guide for details.
Yes! Switch to the Video tab in the model selector to choose from 20+ video models. See our Video Generation guide.
Images are available in PNG format. Videos can be downloaded as MP4, GIF, WebP, or PNG (single frame).