Photoshop has rapidly evolved into an AI-powered creative hub, filled with tools that can dramatically change how you edit photos. I review AI design software and image generators regularly, and one thing is clear: not all AI is created equal. That’s why I wanted to put Adobe’s AI tools to the test and see if they truly live up to the hype.
While AI won’t be necessary for every project—especially for professional designers who rely on precision—it can be an incredible time-saver and creativity booster if used wisely. The key is learning which features to use and how to prompt them effectively.
Before You Start: Adobe’s AI Policy
When you try out Photoshop’s AI tools for the first time, Adobe requires you to agree to its AI terms of service. The company states that it won’t train its Firefly models on your work, and users are expected to follow rules that prohibit harmful or illegal content creation.
Getting Started With Firefly in Photoshop
Adobe’s Firefly AI model is both a standalone app and integrated directly into Photoshop, giving you flexibility depending on your workflow. Here’s how to create AI-generated images inside Photoshop:
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Open your project in the latest version of Photoshop.
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Look for the Generate Image option in the contextual taskbar (or go to Edit > Generate Image).
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Enter your prompt, choose a style, and add reference images if you’d like.
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Click Generate, then scroll through variations using the arrows.
👉 Pro tip: Be detailed in your prompts. Place the most important elements at the beginning for stronger results. If the generations don’t look right, it’s often faster to restart with a fresh prompt than to endlessly tweak.
Key Generative AI Tools in Photoshop
Generative Fill
This is Photoshop’s most popular AI feature. Select an area of your project, type in what you want to appear there, and AI will blend it into the image. Find it under Edit > Generative Fill.
Generative Expand
Need more space in your image? Use the crop tool to extend the canvas, then let AI generate matching scenery or custom designs. Great for resizing projects without losing quality.
Generative Remove
Perfect for erasing unwanted elements like photobombers. Select the object, click Remove, and AI fills in the gap naturally.
Sky Replacement
Transform dull skies instantly. Navigate to Edit > Sky Replacement and pick from dramatic sunsets, clear skies, or colorful presets. Adjust brightness and tones manually for more control.
Generate Background
Ideal for product shots or portraits. Remove the original background, then have AI generate a fresh one. Results vary—realistic landscapes can look artificial, but abstract and patterned backgrounds tend to work beautifully.
Other Useful AI Tools
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Neural Filters: Advanced photo edits like smoothing skin or adjusting expressions.
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Curvature Pen Tool: Helps designers create consistent arcs and curves.
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More AI tools are on the way, with Adobe actively expanding Photoshop’s smart editing options.
My Experience: When AI Shines—and When It Doesn’t
Overall, Photoshop’s AI tools performed well in my testing. Some features, like Generative Expand for resizing and Generative Remove for quick cleanups, were incredibly useful. Others, such as Sky Replacement, produced mixed results depending on the photo.
The takeaway? Photoshop’s AI isn’t meant to replace your entire workflow, but it’s a powerful enhancement. Used thoughtfully, it can save hours of editing time and spark creative ideas you may not have tried otherwise.