How to Use Image-to-Image in Seedream 5.0 Pro for CapCut Design Studio

What Is Image-to-Image in CapCut AI Image Generation

Image-to-image generation is a mode of AI image creation where you provide a reference image alongside a text prompt. The AI model uses the reference image to guide the style, composition, color palette, or subject matter of the generated result, producing images that are more aligned with your existing visual direction.

In CapCut, this feature is available through the References option in the AI image panel. When you upload a reference image, the AI incorporates its visual characteristics into the generation process, creating results that echo the reference while following your text prompt instructions.

When to Use Image-to-Image vs. Text-to-Image

Image-to-image is not always the right choice. Here is when to use each mode:

• Use text-to-image when: You have a clear idea in mind and want the AI to create it from scratch. You want maximum creative freedom and exploration.
• Use image-to-image when: You have an existing visual style to match. You want to maintain brand consistency. You need to recreate a specific composition with variations. You want to transform a photo into a different artistic style.

Step 1: Prepare Your Reference Image

Your reference image quality directly affects the generated results. Before uploading, ensure your reference:

• Is clear and well-lit (avoid blurry or dark references)
• Represents the style, composition, or subject you want to guide
• Has a resolution of at least 512x512 pixels for best results
• Does not contain copyrighted material you don't have rights to

Step 2: Open CapCut AI Image and Upload Reference

Open the CapCut desktop editor and navigate to 'Media' > 'AI Media' > 'AI image.' In the generation panel, look for the 'References' option. Click it to upload your reference image from your device. Once uploaded, the reference image appears in the generation panel alongside your prompt input area.

Step 3: Write a Prompt That Complements Your Reference

When using image-to-image, your prompt should complement the reference rather than contradict it. Describe what you want the AI to change or emphasize while acknowledging what the reference provides:

• Style transfer: Reference: a photo. Prompt: 'Transform into a watercolor painting style, soft brush strokes, warm colors'
• Composition guidance: Reference: a layout sketch. Prompt: 'Photorealistic product photo following this composition, studio lighting, clean background'
• Variation: Reference: an existing image. Prompt: 'Similar composition but with a different color palette, blue and silver tones instead of warm colors'
• Subject refinement: Reference: a rough character sketch. Prompt: 'Detailed anime-style illustration of this character, vibrant colors, dynamic pose'

Step 4: Configure Model and Aspect Ratio

Configure your generation settings:

• Model: For image-to-image, Seedream 4.0 is excellent for fast generation with multi-image consistency. Seedream 5.0 Pro or Seedream 5.0 Lite offer the best reference adherence for general use.
• Aspect ratio: Match the aspect ratio to your intended output, not necessarily the reference image's ratio.
• Reference strength: If CapCut exposes a reference strength or similarity slider, higher values produce results closer to the reference; lower values give the model more creative freedom.

Step 5: Generate and Compare Results

Click Generate to produce four results. When comparing results from image-to-image generation, evaluate:

• Reference adherence: Does the result reflect the reference's style or composition?
• Prompt alignment: Does it also follow your text prompt instructions?
• Quality: Are there artifacts, distortions, or unnatural elements?
• Usability: Can the image be used as-is, or does it need significant editing?

Step 6: Edit and Export the Final Image

After selecting the best result, refine it using CapCut's editing tools:

• Use Text tools to add captions or branding
• Apply filters to adjust color tone and mood
• Use effects for visual enhancement
• Upscale for higher resolution output

To export, click the three horizontal lines above the preview panel, choose 'Export still frames,' select your resolution, and click 'Export.' For more on CapCut Design Studio, see our Design Studio guide.

For the official model overview from ByteDance, see the Seedream 5.0 Pro page here.

FAQs

Can I use image-to-image with Seedream 5.0 Pro in CapCut?

Yes. CapCut's AI image feature supports reference image uploads through the References option. Upload your reference image, write a complementary prompt, and the AI will use both inputs to generate results.

What kind of reference images work best?

Clear, well-lit images with a distinct style or composition work best. Avoid blurry, dark, or cluttered references. The AI performs better when the reference has a clear visual direction.

Can I use image-to-image to copy someone else's art style?

You should only upload reference images you have the rights to use. Using copyrighted artwork as a reference may infringe on the original creator's rights. Use your own photos, licensed stock images, or original sketches as references.

Does image-to-image produce the same image as the reference?

No. The AI uses the reference as guidance, not as a template to copy. The generated results will reflect the reference's style, composition, or color palette while creating new visual content based on your prompt.

Can I use multiple reference images at once?

CapCut's References feature supports uploading reference images for guidance. Check your version's interface for the exact number of references supported. Multiple references can help guide the AI toward a more specific visual direction.