AI Image Generator for Social Media in 2026: Sizes, Templates, and Workflow

Social media teams are using AI image generators to keep up with content schedules. The problem is not creating images, it is creating the right images for each platform. If you are looking for an AI image generator for social media, this guide gives you a repeatable system and exact sizes for Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter.

We will use Myjourney because it is simple, fast, and easy to iterate. You can see real prompts in the Explore gallery and check current credit costs on the pricing page. For beginners, also read the how to generate AI images from text guide.

Why social media needs different image sizes

Each platform crops and compresses content differently. If you use the same 1:1 image everywhere, you will lose screen space and engagement. Picking the right aspect ratio is a low effort way to improve performance.

Here are the current recommended sizes in 2026.

Instagram sizes

TikTok sizes

Twitter and X sizes

If you want a quick rule, use 4:5 for Instagram feed, 9:16 for Stories or TikTok, and 16:9 for Twitter or blog headers.

A simple workflow for social graphics in Myjourney

The goal is to create a small set of reusable visuals that are easy to adapt. Here is a workflow that works for most teams.

Step 1: Pick a content theme

Example themes:

• A weekly product tip
• A monthly customer story
• A quote or stat card
• A feature highlight

The theme helps you keep your design consistent. AI should generate the visuals, not decide the idea.

Step 2: Write a base prompt

Your base prompt should be simple and repeatable. Here is a good template:

[subject], [style], [color palette], [composition], social media graphic

Example:

a modern workspace with a laptop and notebook, minimal style, warm neutral palette, top down composition, social media graphic

You can reuse this base prompt for each week and change one detail, like a product color or an accessory.

Step 3: Generate in the correct aspect ratio

Choose the platform first, then generate images with the correct aspect ratio. This avoids cropping later.

• Instagram feed - 4:5
• TikTok and Stories - 9:16
• Twitter - 16:9

Step 4: Pick the cleanest variation

AI outputs a grid of options. Choose the image with the cleanest background and the clearest space for text. This is critical for social graphics. You want to place captions or brand elements without clutter.

Step 5: Add text in your design tool

Myjourney does not add perfect typography. It is better to generate the image without text and add typography in Figma, Canva, or your editor. This gives you full control and avoids text artifacts.

Step 6: Export the right size

Export exactly at the platform size. Do not rely on automatic scaling inside the app, as it can blur text or crop details.

Example prompt sets for social posts

Below are three prompt sets you can reuse. Each set includes a base prompt and small variations.

1. Product tip series

Base prompt:

a simple desk scene with a notebook and a pen, soft daylight, minimal style, neutral palette, top down, social media graphic

Variations:

• Add a coffee mug
• Change the pen color
• Switch the background material from wood to marble

2. Quote card series

Base prompt:

a clean paper texture background with subtle shadows, minimal style, warm beige palette, centered composition, social media graphic

This gives you a clean background for text overlays.

3. Feature highlight series

Base prompt:

a close up of a smartphone screen on a desk, soft studio lighting, modern tech style, blue accents, social media graphic

Use this for product features, app updates, or announcements.

A comparison of AI tools for social graphics

There are many tools for social content, but they vary a lot in workflow. Here is a quick comparison focused on social media needs.

If you want a straight path from prompt to social graphic, Myjourney plus a simple text editor is a strong setup.

Practical tips for better social images

Use negative space on purpose

Social graphics often need text. Leave blank areas in the image by describing the composition. Example:

left aligned subject with empty space on the right, clean background

Keep color palettes tight

A focused palette helps brand consistency. Include a palette in the prompt:

muted blue and warm gray palette

Avoid busy backgrounds

Busy backgrounds make text hard to read. Use phrases like:

• minimal background
• soft gradients
• simple studio backdrop

Use the same prompt structure every week

Consistency matters more than novelty. Reuse prompts and adjust only a few details.

A week of content, planned with AI

Here is a simple weekly plan for a startup account:

Generate each image in the correct aspect ratio, then add text in your design tool. The whole batch can be created in under an hour.

Myjourney settings that work well for social media

• Mode: Draft for fast exploration, standard for final posts
• Aspect ratio: Match the platform
• Number of images: 4 for variety, 2 if you already have a strong prompt

Start in draft mode so you can iterate quickly. Once you get a clean image, rerun the same prompt in standard mode for better detail.

Common mistakes to avoid

Mistake 1: Using one size for everything

You will lose screen space. Generate for each platform.

Mistake 2: Letting AI generate text

AI text is often distorted. Use a design tool for final typography.

Mistake 3: Not planning a series

Single images are fine, but consistent series perform better. Pick a template and reuse it.

Mistake 4: Overloading the prompt

Social images should be clear and simple. Use short prompts with one subject and one style.

Link your social workflow with other Myjourney tools

If you are building a bigger content pipeline, check these guides:

• AI YouTube thumbnail maker
• AI product photography guide
• Free AI image generator guide

These posts cover specialized use cases and can help you build a cohesive content library.

FAQ: AI image generator for social media

Which AI image generator is best for social media posts?

Choose a tool that makes iteration fast and lets you pick the right aspect ratio. Myjourney is strong here because you can generate a grid, reuse prompts, and switch aspect ratios easily.

What is the best size for Instagram posts in 2026?

The most effective size is 1080 x 1350, which is a 4:5 ratio. It fills more space in the feed than a square.

Can I use AI images for brand content?

Yes, as long as you follow the tool's terms and any local laws. If you need deeper guidance, see commercial use of AI images.

How do I keep my social graphics consistent?

Use a fixed prompt structure, a limited color palette, and a repeated composition. Save your best prompt and reuse it.

Should I generate text inside the AI image?

It is better to add text in a design tool. This avoids distorted letters and gives you full control.

How many images should I generate per post?

Start with a grid of four. Pick the cleanest result, then rerun the same prompt in standard mode if needed.