The quick read
- Hold the intended subject and output format constant.
- Explain which reference qualities matter and which elements should be replaced.
Name the constraint
Text prompts are useful for stating intent, content and exclusions. References can convey composition, palette and spatial relationships. Neither is a reliable substitute for checking the result. A model may preserve an unwanted detail or interpret a visual cue differently from the designer.
Compare controlled briefs
Hold the intended subject and output format constant. Test text alone, reference alone where supported, and a combined instruction. Judge whether the key editorial idea remains clear at thumbnail size and whether incidental details distract from it.
Keep the brief explicit
Explain which reference qualities matter and which elements should be replaced. Use inputs you are authorised to use. For a publication, evaluate a group of covers together so consistency does not come at the expense of each article having a distinct visual idea.
Sources & notes
An editorial decision framework, not a scored benchmark or hands-on test.
developers.openai.com — official reference
developers.openai.com — official reference
Sources reviewed for the September 2026 launch edition.