Can I use AI images in client work?

Check the vendor licence and the client contract. Commercial plans usually allow it; some brand guidelines still forbid it. Always disclose when a pitch deck is exploratory rather than final art.

Which tool is best for readable type in an image?

Ideogram still leads when the picture has to contain real words. Midjourney is stronger for atmosphere. Recraft is the better bet for vectors you will edit later.

Should this replace Figma?

No. Use generation to explore, then rebuild the keeper in your design tool so the system stays consistent.

Tools / AI Image & Design

Best AI image and design tools for studios

Generate the moodboard, the product shot and the first visual territory before anyone opens a blank artboard.

15 tools · ordered by quality and recency — not by who paid

Pin this category · $149/moNot Claim #1

Midjourney
Text-to-image with a taste level that still leads most of the field.
Recraft
AI images and vectors a designer can still edit on Thursday.
Ideogram
The generator to reach for when the picture has to contain real words.
Adobe Firefly
Generative image tools for work that already lives in Creative Cloud.
Flux
Black Forest Labs image models — API in production, open weights when you self-host.
remove.bg
Background removal as the whole product, when you only need the cutout.
ImageWise
AI image translator that keeps your layout
AIClothSwap
Try on outfit swaps and new looks in your own photo.
Browlens
Free AI brow app mapping your shape with six points, balance reports, and brow filters on your photo—no sign-up required.
PicOnTap
Mark an area when you want a local change; pixels outside the blend stay intact. Compare before/after, then download or keep editing.
ReWords AI
Edit Existing Text in Images
Krea
Realtime AI canvas for iterating images, styles, and motion with creative control.
Looka
AI logo and brand kit builder for founders who need an identity in an afternoon.
Photoroom
Instant background removal and product studio shots for ecommerce and social.
Canva
Design suite with Magic Studio for social, decks, and brand kits without a full design team.

Who this is for

For art directors and small studio designers who need to explore a visual territory before the real file exists. These tools help you pitch a mood, not replace the person who has to live with the brand on Thursday. If you need production-ready layout and type, use a design tool after you have picked a direction.

Questions worth asking

Can I use AI images in client work?: Check the vendor licence and the client contract. Commercial plans usually allow it; some brand guidelines still forbid it. Always disclose when a pitch deck is exploratory rather than final art.
Which tool is best for readable type in an image?: Ideogram still leads when the picture has to contain real words. Midjourney is stronger for atmosphere. Recraft is the better bet for vectors you will edit later.
Should this replace Figma?: No. Use generation to explore, then rebuild the keeper in your design tool so the system stays consistent.