Turn the request into a visual brief
State the image's purpose, subject, composition, environment, lighting, palette, materials, typography, aspect ratio, and details that must remain unchanged. A production brief is easier to test than a pile of style adjectives.
Choose a model by the job
Photorealism, illustration, readable text, editing, speed, and reference consistency may favor different models. Run the same prompt and reference set when comparing options, then score adherence and repair effort.
Refine without losing the successful parts
Change composition, subject detail, background, palette, or text separately. Save approved frames and rejection notes so the team can repeat the direction instead of rediscovering it.
Hand the frame to AI video
When the destination is image-to-video, leave room for motion and lock identity, product geometry, and light. Compare the same approved frame in PicLumen and Polox AI, then review temporal consistency and retry cost.