Overview: Placeholder images can help you communicate the vision for your book’s illustrations, making it easier to work with your illustrator. Whether you’re using AI-generated images, stock images, or uploading your own, placeholder images provide visual guidance for layout, content, and overall design. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of generating or importing placeholder images in the Made Live platform, and discuss limitations on copyright protection for AI-generated images.
Why Use Placeholder Images?
Placeholder images are useful for several reasons:
- Visualize the Layout and Composition: Use placeholder images to plan the layout and composition of each spread, making it easier to see how text and illustrations will work together.
- Provide Guidance to Illustrators: Including placeholder images helps communicate your vision to illustrators, offering a reference point for style, color, and positioning.
- Enhance Collaboration: Placeholder images make it easier to discuss visual concepts and changes with illustrators and designers.
Note: While Made Live offers advanced image generation using AI, these are intended to be used as placeholders only and are not meant to be completed illustrations. AI-generated images may have limitations on copyright protection, so it’s best practice to always use original illustrations for final designs.
How to Generate or Import Placeholder Images in the Storyboard Workspace
Follow these steps to generate or import placeholder images for your project:
1. Navigate to the Storyboard Workspace
From your project dashboard, go to the Storyboard workspace. This is where you’ll be able to lay out the text and illustrations to begin to design your book.
2. Click on Media in the Right-Hand Panel
In the Storyboard workspace, click on Media from the right-hand panel. This will open the Media options where you can choose to generate new images, select stock images, or upload your own images.
3. Generate AI-Generated Images (Optional)
To generate new placeholder images using AI, click on the Gen AI button. You’ll be prompted to enter a description of the image you’d like to create. Once you’ve entered your description, click the three stars and the AI will create an image based on your input.
Important Note: AI-generated images should only be used as placeholders, as they are not eligible for full copyright protection. Always replace AI-generated images with original artwork from an illustrator before finalizing your book.
4. Select Stock Images
If you’d like to use pre-loaded placeholder images, click on the Stock button. You can browse thousands of available stock images organized by category, or use the search bar to find specific types of images. These images are meant to help you visualize your layout and communicate your vision to your illustrator.
5. Upload Your Own Images
To upload images you’ve created or received from your illustrator, click on the Stock button, then select the green Upload button at the bottom of the window beside the search bar. You can upload images in common formats like PNG or JPEG. Once uploaded, these images will appear in your Stock library and can be dragged onto the storyboard.
6. Place Images onto the Storyboard
After generating, selecting, or uploading images, simply drag and drop the image onto the storyboard spread where you’d like it to appear. Resize and reposition the image as needed to create the desired layout.
Copyright Considerations for AI-Generated Images
While AI-generated images can be helpful as placeholders, it’s important to understand the limitations regarding copyright protection:
- Copyright Limitations: In many jurisdictions, AI-generated images may not be eligible for full copyright protection, as the law typically requires human authorship for copyright to apply.
- Placeholder Use Only: Always use AI-generated images as placeholders and replace them with original artwork for final designs.
- Work with an Illustrator: To ensure your images are fully protected by copyright, collaborate with a professional illustrator and use their original artwork in the final version of your book.
For more information about the copyright status of AI-generated content, consult legal resources or seek advice from a copyright professional.
Best Practices for Using Placeholder Images
1. Use Images to Communicate Your Vision
Use placeholder images to show illustrators where specific elements should appear and how they should interact with text.
2. Don’t Rely on AI-Generated Images for Final Artwork
Remember that AI-generated images are meant for planning purposes only. Always replace them with original illustrations before publishing.
3. Keep Placeholder Images Organized
Organize your placeholder images in the storyboard so that they reflect the visual flow of your book, making it easier for illustrators to understand your intentions.
4. Use Consistent Styles and Colors
When generating or selecting placeholder images, try to use a consistent style and color palette that matches the theme of your book.
Final Notes: Generating and importing placeholder images in the Storyboard workspace is a useful way to communicate your vision to illustrators and plan your book’s visual content. Use this guide to add and organize placeholder images, and remember to replace AI-generated images with original artwork for the final version of your book.
