Using AI to Unlock Your Creative Potential

Did you know AI can help you to take better photos, brainstorm or push your creative boundaries?

Welcome to Uncharted: A How-To Guide. My new series that is about more than just getting things done — it's about learning to move forward when the path isn't clear. In each installment, I'll share the tools, systems, and mindset shifts that help me work, start new things, and find joy in the unknown. This is for the builders, the navigators, and anyone daring enough to write their own map.

Many of you have already dabbled with AI creativity - perhaps using filters to smooth your skin or morph into a talking animal. But have you explored its deeper potential to brainstorm ideas, refine your artistic vision, or push your creative boundaries?

This week, I'll share four powerful ways AI can transform your creative process, with practical examples from my own experience.

1. Creating Images: Beyond Basic Generation

While image generation might seem straightforward, the key to compelling results lies in crafting detailed prompts. Instead of just asking for "a dinosaur at the Capitol," consider every element:

Basic prompt: "A dinosaur in front of the U.S. Capitol"

Enhanced prompt: "Generate an image of a T-Rex mingling with tourists in front of the U.S. Capitol at sunset. It is summer with green grass and leaves on the trees. Create a three-panel comic strip where: Panel 1 shows the T-Rex walking up to the Capitol saying hello to tourists, Panel 2 shows the tourists looking scared, Panel 3 shows them running away while the T-Rex looks sad."

Pro tip: Don't just specify the subject - define the style (watercolor, comic strip, photorealistic), mood (whimsical, dramatic), and composition. And yes, ChatGPT's recent update means text in images actually works now! Make sure to check out the checklist at the end to ensure you capture all the details needed for a good prompt!

2. AI as Your Photo Coach

During my recent trip to France, I discovered an unexpected use for AI: as my personal photography consultant. Here's how I transformed my amateur shots into more professional compositions:

Step 1: Upload your photo. I started with this casual shot of my boots by a stove.

Step 2: Ask for specific feedback. "How can I improve the composition and styling of this photo?"

Step 3: Iterate based on suggestions. After several rounds of adjustments following AI's advice on angles, lighting, and styling, I achieved this result.

Bonus application: When creating photo collections for Instagram, I uploaded all my shots and asked AI to:

• Select the strongest 10 images

• Suggest the optimal posting order

• Recommend complementary editing techniques in Lightroom