Gen AI Through the Eyes of Creators: Intent-Reflective Image Generation Methods in Digital Creation Processes

Background With the advancement of generative artificial intelligence (AI), digital creators are increasingly utilizing image generation AI throughout the creative process. However, the opacity of the image generation process and the diversity of creative tasks pose challenges for flexible use, such as predicting or modifying outcomes. This study aims to explore and categorize effective image generation methods tailored to each stage of the creative process based on an in-depth understanding of digital creative experiences. Methods After theoretically exploring the limitations of image generation AI, we conducted preliminary interviews with seven creators to categorize the stages of creation. Using the Double Diamond process, we mimicked the creative process utilizing AI through experiments and in-depth interviews to identify effective ways to employ image generation AI at each stage of digital creation. Results Creators primarily desire images aligned with their intent, particularly in the early and middle stages of creation. The middle stage, where intent becomes clearer, benefited most from AI assistance, while the early and late stages, having different characteristics, required more nuanced image generation methods. During divergence, specificity was preferred, while during convergence, both diversification and specificity were favored. This indicates a general preference for images closely aligned with the creator’s intent, with ‘specificity’ in image generation meeting these needs most effectively. Creators enjoyed the variety of styles but preferred specific images as actual references. Conclusions Since image generation AI is primarily used for decision-making in digital creation, advanced image generation methods tailored to each creator’s unique process are essential. This study suggests ways to refine the image generation process of AI to match the specific stages of the creative process, highlighting the necessity of such refinement. Enhanced AI that understands the characteristics of the creative process is expected to lead to more effective and enriched digital creative experiences.