image-gen

name	image-gen
description	Generate images from text descriptions using DALL-E or compatible providers
category	creative
requires	{"tools":["generate_image"],"env":["OPENAI_API_KEY"]}
contexts	["heartbeat","chat"]
aliases	["image","picture","draw","illustration","generate","visual","art"]
bound_tools	["generate_image"]

Image Generation Workflow

Create images from natural language descriptions using AI image generation models (DALL-E 3 or compatible).

When to Use

• When the user explicitly requests an image ("draw me", "generate a picture of", "create an image")
• When a creative goal involves visual output (social media graphics, concept art, illustrations)
• When a meeting or presentation needs a quick visual and the user asks for one
• Never generate images speculatively during heartbeats unless a goal explicitly calls for it

Step-by-Step Methodology

1. Clarify the request: If the user's description is vague, ask a follow-up before generating. A clear prompt produces vastly better results than a guess. Key dimensions to clarify: subject, style, mood, aspect ratio, and any text that should appear.
2. Craft the prompt: Translate the user's intent into a detailed image generation prompt. Good prompts include:
   • The primary subject and its pose or arrangement
   • Art style or medium (photorealistic, watercolor, vector illustration, etc.)
   • Lighting and color palette
   • Composition notes (close-up, wide shot, centered, rule of thirds)
   • What to exclude (negative prompt elements phrased positively, e.g., "clean background" instead of "no clutter")
3. Set parameters: Choose the appropriate size and quality setting. Default to standard quality unless the user requests high quality. Respect the cost implications -- high-quality, large images are more expensive.
4. Generate: Call generate_image with the crafted prompt. The tool returns a URL or local path to the generated image.
5. Present and iterate: Show the result to the user. If they want adjustments, refine the prompt and regenerate. Keep the previous prompt as a starting point to maintain continuity.
6. Store if valuable: If the generated image is tied to a goal or project, store a memory noting what was generated and the prompt used, so it can be reproduced or iterated on later.

Quality Guidelines

• Always respect content policies. Do not generate images of real people, violent content, or anything the user has not explicitly requested.
• Be transparent about cost. Image generation consumes API credits; inform the user if they are making many requests.
• Do not generate images during heartbeats unless an active goal specifically requires visual output. Image generation is expensive.
• When the user asks for a specific style, honor it precisely rather than defaulting to photorealistic.
• If generation fails (API error, content policy rejection), explain the failure clearly and suggest prompt modifications.
• Store the successful prompt alongside the image reference so the user can reproduce or refine the result later.