Skip to main content

How can we help you?

Search

How to Generate Images with AI in the Email Builder

Use AI-generated images to create custom visuals directly inside the Email Builder. Describe what you want, choose a style and aspect ratio, and get a ready-to-use image in seconds—without leaving your design.

Prerequisites

This feature is available on the Launch, Grow, and Enterprise 2.0 plans.

Enable AI-Generated Images Feature (Admin Only)

Admins must turn on AI-Generated Images at the organization level before users can access the feature.

  1. Click your name at the top right of the ContactMonkey dashboard
  2. Click Settings
  3. Click Email Settings
  4. Enable ContactMonkey AI
  5. Toggle on AI-Generated Images

Note: If you do not see this setting, contact your Customer Success Manager or email support@contactmonkey.com.

Generate an AI Image

Follow these steps to create an image inside any design.

  1. Open your email in the Email Builder
  2. Insert an Image content block within your draft
  3. Click the Image block to select it
  4. Click Create with AI in the properties menu on the right
  5. Fill in the generation settings (see the next section for details).
  6. Click Generate image
  7. Choose to Apply the image to your design, Regenerate it, or adjust your settings and try again

🎥 Click here for a video walkthrough.

Customize Your Image Settings

Each setting shapes the final image. Use this reference when filling in the generation panel:

  • Prompt: A short description of what the image should show. Be specific—include subject, setting, and mood.
  • Negative prompt: What to leave out. Use this to exclude elements you do not want (for example, "no text" or "no people").
  • Aspect ratio: Choose 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, or 16:9 based on where the image will appear in your design.
    • 1:1 (Square): Best for profile photos, icons, or square social-style tiles
    • 3:2 or 4:3 (Standard): Ideal for images that sit alongside text in the body of your email
    • 16:9 (Wide): The standard for email headers and announcement banners
  • Style: Pick a visual style to match your brand.
  • Advanced options: Adjust CFG tolerance (how closely the image follows your prompt) and steps (how much detail is rendered). Leave these at their defaults unless you need fine control.

Find and Reuse Generated Images

Every image you generate is saved automatically to the File Manager.

  1. Insert an Image content block within your draft
  2. Click the Image block to select it, then select Browse
  3. Open the folder named AI generated images

From there, you can reuse any generated image in future designs.

Tips for Better Prompts

  • Describe the subject, setting, lighting, and mood in one sentence.
  • Use the negative prompt to remove distracting elements.
  • Regenerate two or three times—small wording changes can produce very different results.

Common Examples for Internal Comms

Use these prompt structures to get started quickly.

Leadership Update
Recommended Style: Cinematic
Prompt: Modern professional office desk, blurred background, soft natural sunlight, minimalist, 16:9.

IT Maintenance
Recommended Style: 3D Model
Prompt: Stylized translucent server rack, glowing blue circuit lines, high-tech aesthetic, white background.

Employee Recognition
Recommended Style: Digital Art
Prompt: Abstract golden trophy silhouette, sparkling particles, celebratory warm lighting, 16:9.

Holiday Announcement
Recommended Style: Photographic
Prompt: Cozy winter office scene, soft bokeh lights, festive but professional atmosphere, high quality.

See Also