Adobe Firefly Book

Victoria Pavlov

18 Oct, 2023

I am thrilled to announce my new book: “100+ Prompts to Ignite Your Everyday Creativity!” Delve into handpicked prompts crafted to spark your daily creativity with Adobe Firefly. Let your imagination soar like never before!

In a digital age marked by unprecedented technological advancements, Generative AI stands as a paragon of innovation. At the heart of this phenomenon is the art and science of prompting — the process of feeding specific cues to a model to elicit desired responses. Whether you’re an AI enthusiast seeking a deeper understanding, a developer aiming to harness its capabilities, or a creative writer desiring to collaborate with the machine, this book is your compass.

“100+ Prompts to Ignite Your Everyday Creativity” is more than just a compilation of cues. It’s a journey through the multifaceted dimensions of human intellect, emotion, and creativity, made possible through the lens of advanced artificial intelligence. These prompts have been curated not just for their utility, but for their ability to push the boundaries of what we believe machines can achieve.

Beyond the simple utility of each prompt, you will find insights into the philosophy of AI interactions, the nuances that make a difference, and the art of asking the right questions. Think of this book as a toolkit, a treasure trove of sparks designed to ignite inspiration and pave new avenues of exploration in the vast world of Generative AI.

As you delve into these pages, remember: The future of AI is not just about the answers machines can provide, but the questions we dare to ask. Here’s to your journey of discovery, innovation, and boundless creativity.

By the end of this book, my hope is that you not only gain a deeper appreciation for the marvels of Generative AI but also feel empowered to craft your own prompts, fostering a symbiotic collaboration between human intuition and machine intelligence. Dive in, and let your journey with Generative AI truly begin!

100+ Prompts to Ignite Your Everyday Creativity

Who is Victoria White?

Victoria Pavlov

11 Sep, 2023

Hey friends,

The past few days have been tough, you know? I’ve been feeling kinda low, just stuck in this loop of sadness and frustration. It just seems like, no matter what I do, I can’t quite reach that place I’m aiming for in my professional life. I keep asking myself, “What’s missing? Why isn’t it clicking?”

So I turned to my rock, my incredible husband, just pouring out all these feelings of doubt. And you know what he told me? That I’ve got it all wrong. That there are so many people out there, especially little ones, who are looking up to me. They see me as someone who brings a splash of color, a dose of inspiration into their lives through my art and classes.

He reminded me that giving into this funk isn’t just letting myself down, but it’s also dimming the light for those people who are genuinely excited to see what I create next. It was a real wake-up call, helping me see that I’ve got a responsibility not just to myself but to everyone who finds a spark in what I do.

So, I’m shaking things up a bit with this blog post – steering clear from our usual tech and art chat. I’ve noticed a question popping up quite a lot from you all, a question that’s remained a mystery… until now.

“Who is Victoria White?”

Yep, you’ve got it. I’m finally spilling the beans, going off the beaten path to answer the one question that’s been on your minds. So, sit back, relax, and let’s have a heart-to-heart as I share a bit of the Victoria White story with you.

I grew up in a family full of musicians, so it was pretty much a given that I’d find myself in front of a piano from a very young age. From the time I was four until I reached nine, I was hitting those piano keys, learning the ropes and finding my rhythm. But then, a decision was made — having two budding musicians in the house was a bit too much. Sadly, I was the one chosen to bow out of the musical path.

It broke my heart, not going to lie. Yet, it’s that same heartbreak that nudged me in a different direction, one filled with colors and canvases. Yep, I turned to painting, channeling all those melodies into strokes of paint, creating my own kind of music, but on paper.

I jumped into art classes and, would you believe it, by the age of 14 I was hosting my very first solo exhibit. That day was kind of magical, honestly. Seeing people actually come out to see my art and hearing them praise my talent — it did something big to me. It sort of carved out this permanent, happy space in my life, you know?

From that day on, art wasn’t just a hobby or a pastime. It became a part of who I am, a second “me,” you could say. It turned into this language that I could speak more fluently than any other, my go-to way to express all the big and small things swirling around inside.

When I hit 17, my world kinda flipped on its head. I found myself in this really intense survival mode, having to flee the place I called home and starting over as a refugee. Just when I thought I was finding my footing, life threw a few more punches my way — losing a loved one and facing domestic violence.

It was… a lot, to say the least. I hit pause on my art, this thing that had been my rock for so long. I just couldn’t bring myself to create, not with everything going on. And that pause stretched out for a long, long 5 years.

So there I was, trying to settle into this new place I was learning to call home, and bam — suddenly we’re smack dab in the middle of a war zone. Basics like food and water became luxury items, and we had to say goodbye to the comforts of heating in winter and cooling off in summer — electricity was a no-show.

It was down to just the bare essentials, you know? Mom and I, we had to let go of pretty much everything we owned — jewelry, furniture, our collection of books — all to make sure we could scrape together enough to get half a pound of baby food for my little one. It was that kind of time, a period of just holding on and getting by day by day.

Just when I felt like I was running on empty, like all the hope had been squeezed out of me, this little glimmer of light appeared, thanks to our neighbor. Picture this: they introduced me to the world of Photoshop.

Mom stepped up, big time. She took this last piece of jewelry, a keepsake from her own mom, and sold it to gift me a fresh start. That cash became my ticket to classes in Photoshop, Illustrator, and 3D Studio Max. I poured everything I had into learning, evolving, growing.

Guess what? I not only finished those classes but rocked them so hard that, by the end, my teacher threw up his hands and admitted I had surpassed him. Yep, I did it.

The country was still caught up in the war, and having electricity was like winning a mini lottery, happening only on the rarest occasions. I mean, most people around didn’t even know what a computer was back then.

So picture this: I’m shelling out cash to my teacher just for the chance to spend an hour a week in his office, getting my hands on Photoshop, Illustrator, and 3D Studio Max. And my golden ticket during this time? A Photoshop class book from Adobe.

I practically ate that book up, you know? I knew it like the back of my hand, from the very first word to the very last. It wasn’t just a book, it was my lifeline, pulling me through hunger, cold, and the chaos around. It held this promise, a whisper that kept saying, “Hang in there, better days are coming for you, your mom, and your little one.” It was more than hope; it was a beacon in the darkness, guiding us towards brighter times.

This is my answer to the other question you so often ask me: why I am apsest with Adobe. Yees, that book, and one hour per week working with Photoshop and Illustrator made me to be where I am now and who I am now.

So, there I was, landing in the USA with my 13-year-old kiddo by my side and a grand total of 45 bucks to my name. I hit the ground running, juggling like four or five jobs at the same time, just hustling non-stop.

After a few months of hard graft, I managed to scrape together just enough to grab this low-spec computer from Target — cost me 243 dollars, leaving me with a fiver to last the week. Yeah, it was tight.

One gig I had going was cleaning streets. The pay wasn’t in cash but it did keep us fed — a daily meal at a buffet for both me and my daughter. It was hard yards, but we were making it, one day at a time, one meal at a time.

The game-changer — I got my hands on a copy of Photoshop. The exact name slips my mind, but it had this super cool 3D feature. I went all in, pouring every last dime into it. Yeah, it put me behind on rent for a good ten days, with nothing but a loaf of bread and a jar of pickles holding down the fort in the fridge.

But man, I was on cloud nine because now I had Photoshop. It was like suddenly having this amazing language where I could chat, express, and CREATE! It felt like the world just opened up, and I was ready to paint it with all the colors of my dreams, one digital brushstroke at a time.

So yeah, this is me opening up the book on who I am and the rocky road that led me here. Smooth sailing? Not even close. It’s been a rollercoaster of falling down and dragging myself back up, but with Photoshop and Illustrator by my side, I kept pushing forward. I know it might sound a bit too simple, but that’s the raw truth.

That’s why you’ll hear me saying it over and over: “Photoshop saved my life.” And you know what? It really did.

Who is Victoria White? I am, Victoria White, wearing the hats of mom, wife, and artist, navigating the worlds of digital imaging, photography, and traditional art. This blend allows me to craft pieces that speak to you, to share a slice of myself with every creation.

When you step into my classes, expect more than just a technical rundown of “do’s and don’ts.” It’s about marrying technology and passion, guiding you to find that sweet spot where art meets heart. Because to me, that’s what art truly is — it’s a fervent dialogue, a place where our inner voices find a canvas, be it digital or traditional.

In this vibrant world, technology isn’t just a tool; it’s akin to learning the alphabet of a new language — the language of art. It’s about helping you craft narratives that are uniquely yours, equipping you with the skill set to paint your stories vividly, with every nuance captured.

So, whether you’re navigating the intricate paths of digital artistry or exploring the heartfelt strokes of a traditional canvas, remember that art, in essence, is a labor of love, a passionate endeavor that goes beyond techniques, resonating deeply within the soul.

So, for all of you who want to know me and my art better, please join my Patreon and Facebook Group.

Let’s make art together.

Generative AI imaging has the potential to provide advantages to freelancers who are engaged in digital imaging work.

Victoria Pavlov

16 May, 2023

In the rapidly evolving world of digital imaging, new technologies constantly emerge, pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a game-changer among these advancements. In this blog post, I will explain my thoughts about why digital artists should embrace AI-generated images as a powerful tool to unlock new realms of creativity, expand artistic possibilities, and captivate audiences like never before.

Occasionally, like every artist, I face creative blocks from time to time. AI-generated images can be an invaluable tool to overcome such hurdles. When inspiration seems elusive, AI-generated images can jumpstart the artistic process, helping artists break through creative stagnation and find new directions for their work. The unexpected and novel outcomes produced by AI can ignite fresh ideas and rekindle the artistic flame.
Working on a photo compositing project for a client could be overwhelming. Only some clients provide you with all the necessary assets for the project. Often it could be just one main character or object, and you need to find the remaining assets you need. So what will you do? Of course, you will go to some stock websites where you will spend hours and hours trying to find the right image(s). Why hours? Because you need to find a few examples of each asset (for the client to choose from), you need to find all of the images at the right angle, viewpoint, colors, and light. All these hours you spend on the stock website cannot guarantee that you will find the right image(s). This could get even more complicated if the client needs a specific image from a specific part of the world. What will you do now? Pack your bag and fly there to take a picture of the city, scenery, and landscape. Who will pay for that? Your client? How long will it take to deliver the project to the client? So by the end how much will you charge the client? What is the right price to cover all expenses, make a profit, AND be reasonable (because this is what all clients want)? This is where AI comes to the rescue. AI significantly speeds up the creative process by automating certain tasks AI can generate landscapes, characters, abstract patterns, or even surreal compositions that push the boundaries of imagination. AI algorithms can generate initial sketches, color palettes, or even complete compositions, serving as a starting point for artists to build upon. This allows artists to focus their time and energy on refining and adding their personal touch, expediting the artistic workflow and enabling the realization of ideas in a more efficient manner.

AI opens up a world of possibilities. By harnessing the power of AI, artists can push the boundaries of their creativity, expand their artistic horizons, and create captivating, visionary artwork that resonates with audiences in profound ways. So, let AI be your artistic ally, and unlock the untapped potential that lies at the intersection of human imagination and machine intelligence.

Wacom Intuos Pro Pen

Victoria Pavlov

1 May, 2023

So many of you have asked me why I use a Wacom tablet and how it could benefit a digital imaging workflow. I get many questions about how to customize the Wacom Intuos Pro pen.
Let me answer your questions in this blog post:

In today’s world, digital imaging has become an integral part of various industries, such as graphic design, animation, and photography. The advancement of technology has made it possible for artists and designers to create stunning visual designs and artwork through various digital tools. One essential tool that has revolutionized digital imaging is the Wacom tablet.

A Wacom tablet is a digital input device that enables artists and designers to create digital artwork with precision and accuracy. The tablet features a pressure-sensitive pen that mimics the feel and behavior of traditional brushes and pencils. The tablet’s surface is designed to provide a natural drawing experience and offers a range of customizable buttons that can be used for quick access to frequently used commands.

The use of Wacom tablets in digital imaging has become increasingly popular due to their numerous benefits. Here are some of the reasons why a Wacom tablet is an essential tool for digital imaging:

Improved Precision and Control

A Wacom tablet provides artists and designers with a level of precision and control that cannot be achieved using a mouse or trackpad. The pressure-sensitive pen allows for variable line weight and stroke width, making it possible to create natural-looking brush strokes and intricate designs. The tablet also provides greater accuracy when selecting and editing individual elements in a design.

Faster Workflow

Using a Wacom tablet can significantly speed up the design process, enabling artists to work more efficiently. The customizable buttons on the tablet can be programmed to perform frequently used commands, allowing artists to switch between tools quickly. Additionally, the tablet’s pen can be used to zoom in and out of designs, making it easier to work on fine details.

Ergonomic Design

Working on a computer for extended periods can be challenging and can lead to discomfort. The Wacom tablet’s ergonomic design helps to alleviate these issues by providing a more natural and comfortable working position. The tablet can be positioned at a comfortable angle, reducing strain on the neck, shoulders, and back.

Greater Flexibility

A Wacom tablet offers greater flexibility when working on digital designs, as it allows for more natural and intuitive drawing and painting. This flexibility makes it possible to create a wider range of designs, from intricate sketches to detailed illustrations and animations.

Customizing the Wacom Intuos Pro pen is important in setting up the device for your specific needs and work style. Here are the steps to customize the Wacom Intuos Pro pen:

Install the Wacom drivers on your computer. You can download the latest drivers from the Wacom website.

Open the Wacom Tablet Properties application on your computer.

Click on the “Pen” tab. This will display the available pen settings.

Adjust the “Pressure Sensitivity of the pen. The pressure sensitivity settings determine how much pressure is required to create a line with different thicknesses. You can adjust or set the pressure curve to match your drawing style. Using the “Try Here” window, you can try the new setting right away.

Assign functions to the pen’s buttons. The Wacom Intuos Pro pen has two buttons that can be customized to perform different functions. You can assign functions such as undo, redo, or brush size to these buttons. Click on the button you want to customize and select the desired function from the drop-down menu.

Adjust the pen tip feel. You can adjust the pen tip feel to change the tactile feedback you get when using the pen. Click on the “Pen Tip Feel” button and adjust the slider to the desired setting.

Customize the pen’s eraser settings. The Wacom Intuos Pro pen has an eraser on the opposite end of the pen that can also be customized. Click on the “Eraser” tab and adjust the eraser settings as desired. You can customize “Eraser Feel” as well.

Customize the express keys. The Wacom Intuos Pro tablet comes with a set of customizable express keys. You can assign functions such as zoom, pan, or brush size to these keys. Click on the “Mapping” tab, and click on the “Express Keys” tab and select the desired function from the drop-down menu for each key.

Save your settings. Once you have customized the settings to your preferences, click on the “Save” button to save the changes.

Adobe Firefly Beta

Victoria Pavlov

30 Mar, 2023

AI Imaging: Revolutionizing the World of Digital Imaging.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is making waves across various industries, and the world of digital imaging is no exception. AI imaging can revolutionize capturing, editing, and creating visual content. From intelligent editing tools to automatic image enhancement, AI transforms the creative process for photographers, graphic designers, and digital artists.
Beyond editing and enhancing existing images, AI is also breaking new ground in generative images.
Adobe entered the space of generative AI by introducing Adobe Firefly (Beta). Adobe Firefly is a powerful tool to bring your imagination to another level. With Adobe Firefly, you can bring your imagination to life through generated hyper-realistic images or impressionism-inspired paintings by typing a text/prompt. Adobe Firefly doesn’t stop there. Adobe Firefly can generate a text-based image based on your text/prompt. This is only the beginning. I am so excited to see what Adobe Firefly brings to us next.

I will answer the question I was asked so many times: “Will AI replace art made by humans?” My answer is: No, AI will never replace human art. AI brings an extra tool to our tool belt.

You can join the beta too.
I want to share a few images I generated with Adobe Firefly and all prompts I used to generate them.

NOTE: Adobe Firefly is for only NON-COMERCIAL use while in beta.

Prompt: red tomato with droplets on it

Prompt: a giraffe with sunglasses

Prompt: impressionism, summer flowers in a vase in front of the open window, summer day

Prompt: fresh cherries with droplets on it

Prompt: pink donut with dripping blue frosting

Prompt: black paint with dripping gold paint

Prompt: silver metal with rust on it

In the video below, you can learn how to start with Adobe Firefly

Ai Imaging

Victoria Pavlov

21 Mar, 2023

AI Imaging: Revolutionizing the World of Digital Imaging.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is making waves across various industries, and the world of digital imaging is no exception. AI imaging has the potential to revolutionize the way we capture, edit, and create visual content. From intelligent editing tools to automatic image enhancement, AI is transforming the creative process for photographers, graphic designers, and digital artists.

One of the most significant impacts of AI in the imaging field is the development of powerful and intuitive editing tools. AI-driven software uses machine learning algorithms to improve user experience and streamline editing. These tools can recognize patterns, analyze images, and even anticipate the user’s needs, making it easier than ever to create stunning visuals.

For instance, AI-powered selection tools can identify and isolate subjects from backgrounds, making removing or replacing objects in an image simple. All these advancements save time and empower users to focus on the creative aspects of their work.

AI imaging is also paving the way for automated image enhancement, making it possible to optimize an image’s quality instantly. Algorithms analyze factors like exposure, color balance, and sharpness, then apply appropriate adjustments to ensure the best possible results. This process has the potential to benefit users ranging from amateur photographers looking to improve their smartphone snaps to professionals seeking to streamline their workflow.

Beyond editing and enhancing existing images, AI is also breaking new ground in the realm of generative images. AI-powered software can generate entirely new images based on specific styles, themes, or input data. This technology opens up a world of possibilities for artists and designers, enabling them to push the boundaries of their creativity and explore new forms of expression.

As AI technology advances, we can expect to see even more innovative applications in the imaging world.AI imaging is undoubtedly changing the game in digital imaging. From powerful editing tools to automated enhancements and generative imaging, AI empowers artists to explore new creative avenues and easily produce captivating visuals. As technology continues to evolve, I look forward to a future of limitless possibilities in the world of imaging.

Do you know you can make images like these and more using Adobe Firefly (Beta)? I was one of the initial beta testers, and I could not wait till you tried the Firefly (Beta). The possibilities are endless!!

The Shape Builder Tool In Adobe Illustrator

Victoria Pavlov

17 Feb, 2023

The Shape Builder Tool in Adobe Illustrator is a powerful tool that allows you to create new shapes by combining, merging, or subtracting existing shapes. It is a versatile tool that can save you a lot of time in your design process, especially if you work with complex shapes and need to modify them quickly.

In this tutorial, I will show you how to use the Shape Builder Tool in Adobe Illustrator to create new shapes and designs.

Step 1: Select the shapes you want to modify

The first step is to select the shapes you want to modify. You can do this by clicking and dragging over the shapes you want to select or by holding down the Shift key and clicking on each shape.

Step 2: Select the Shape Builder Tool

Next, select the Shape Builder Tool from the toolbar on the left-hand side of the screen.

Step 3: Combine shapes

To combine shapes, click and drag over the areas you want to combine. The Shape Builder Tool will automatically create a new shape based on your selection. You can combine as many shapes as you want, and the tool will create a new shape for each combination.

Step 4: Subtract areas from a shape

To subtract areas from a shape, hold down the Option/Alt key and click and drag over the area you want to remove. The Shape Builder Tool will subtract that area from the shape, creating a new shape.

Step 5: Adjust the shape

Once you have created a new shape using the Shape Builder Tool, you can adjust it by using the Direct Selection Tool. Select the shape and use the Direct Selection Tool to click and drag on any of the anchor points or handles to modify the shape.

In conclusion, the Shape Builder Tool in Adobe Illustrator is a powerful tool that can save you a lot of time in your design process. It allows you to create new shapes by combining, merging, or subtracting existing shapes, and it is easy to use. With a little bit of practice, you can create complex shapes and designs quickly and efficiently.

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Three things that you may not have known how to do in Adobe Illustrator.

Victoria Pavlov

7 Feb, 2023

Adobe Illustrator is a powerful vector graphics software that is widely used by graphic designers, illustrators, and artists. It offers a vast array of tools and features that can help you create amazing designs. However, with so many tools and features available, it can be overwhelming to learn everything at once. In this blog post, we will discuss three things that you may not have known how to do in Adobe Illustrator.

1: Use the Width Tool to Modify Paths

The Width Tool in Adobe Illustrator allows you to adjust the width of paths and shapes in your design. This tool can be used to create unique and creative designs that cannot be achieved with the standard stroke width feature. To use the Width Tool, select the path or shape you want to modify and go to the “Width Tool” in the “Tools” panel. You can then adjust the width of the path by clicking and dragging the anchor points on either side.

2: Create Clipping Masks

Clipping masks are a great way to add depth and interest to your designs. They allow you to clip an image or shape so that only a portion of it is visible. To create a clipping mask in Adobe Illustrator, first create the shape or image you want to use as the mask and place it above the object you want to clip. Then, select both objects and go to the “Object” menu, select “Clipping Mask” and then “Create Clipping Mask.”

3: Live Trace

Live Trace is a powerful feature that allows you to convert bitmap images into vector graphics. To use it, simply import your image into Illustrator and select it, then go to Object > Image Trace > Make Trace. You can then adjust the settings to get the desired trace result and expand the trace to convert it into a vector object.

In conclusion, these are just a few of the many features available in Adobe Illustrator that you may not have known how to use. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced user, it’s always a good idea to continue learning and exploring the software to enhance your skills and improve your designs. Happy designing!

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Storytelling in digital imaging

Victoria Pavlov

25 Jan, 2023

Storytelling in digital imaging is more important than a technically correct image. In today’s digital age, visual content is more prevalent than ever. From social media to advertising, images are constantly being used to capture the attention of audiences and convey a message. However, while technical aspects such as lighting, composition, and color are important, they are secondary to the story being told.

A technically correct image may be visually pleasing, but without a compelling story, it’s just a pretty picture. The story is what gives the image meaning and context, and it’s what connects with the audience on a deeper level. Whether it’s a brand campaign or a personal project, the story should always be the driving force behind the visual content.

For example, a landscape photo that is technically perfect but doesn’t tell a story may be appreciated for its beauty, but it doesn’t leave a lasting impression. On the other hand, a photo of a hike through the mountains, with a person’s face in the frame, tells a story of adventure, accomplishment and the beauty of nature. This is more likely to resonate with the audience and drive engagement.

In the age of digital media, storytelling through images is essential. It’s the story that gives meaning to the image, and it’s what separates a good image from a great one. Brands and businesses should focus on creating visual content that tells a compelling story and resonates with their target audience.

In conclusion, while technical aspects are important, storytelling should always be the priority when it comes to digital imaging. It’s the story that gives meaning to the image and connects with the audience on an emotional level. Brands and businesses should focus on creating visual content that tells a compelling story and resonates with their target audience.

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Winter Coloring Pages

Victoria Pavlov

23 Dec, 2022

Just in time for the winter holidays! I am excited to announce the release of my new coloring pages collection. These pages are perfect for getting into the holiday spirit and spreading cheer. Get your coloring supplies ready, and let’s get creative!

Everyone gets one complimentary coloring book page via my Patreon. The rest of the collection will be available only for my Patrons.
I appreciate your support and subscribing to my Patreon. It really helps me.