Atom
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Image Generation

Atom can generate images directly in the chat. Images stream in place and are automatically imported into the open project.

Quick Start

Ask Atom to generate images just like you’d request any other task:

Generate a 16:9 particle sprite sheet with 8 different fire particle variations
Create three mood boards for a cyberpunk scene: neon streets, rain-soaked alley, holographic billboards

What You Can Generate

  • Particle sprite sheets — Ask Atom to wire them into layered particle systems in After Effects
  • Mood and concept frames — Block out narrative beats, then have Atom animate parallax passes for pitch boards
  • Texture and decal passes — Generate custom textures and have Atom drop them into materials, mattes, or UI elements on the timeline
  • Reference imagery — Visual direction for color, composition, or style

Controlling the Output

Aspect Ratio

Specify the dimensions you need:

Generate a 1:1 square icon of a glowing atom symbol
Create a 16:9 landscape background of a desert sunset

Common ratios: 1:1, 16:9, 9:16, 4:3, 3:4

Multiple Images

Request multiple variations or shots:

Generate 4 different logo concepts for a tech startup
Create 3 versions of this scene with different lighting: morning, noon, dusk

Atom supports up to 8 generated images per request.

Where Images Are Stored

Generated images are saved in your project folder at:

[Your After Effects Project Folder]/Atom Assets/image-cache/

Generated assets are auto-imported into an Atom folder in the Project panel. Atom does not place them into a comp unless you ask.

Requirements

Image generation requires an OpenRouter API key, separate from the AI account you use for chat. Add your key in Settings → Integrations. See Integrations for details.

Choosing Your Model

Change the image model in Settings → Integrations. The model selector shows relative pricing and organizes models into groups.

Available Models

  • Nano Banana Pro (Google) — Most capable, with exceptional detail and coherence
  • Nano Banana 2 (Google) — Fast and efficient with great instruction following (default)
  • GPT Image 2 (OpenAI) — Flagship model with transparency support
  • GPT-5 Image Mini (OpenAI) — Lightweight and fast for quick asset creation

Tips for Better Results

  • Be specific — Describe style, composition, colors, and mood
  • Iterate naturally — Refine in the same chat: “Make those colors more saturated” or “Add more contrast”
  • Combine with automation — After generating textures or sprites, ask Atom to place and composite them in your comp. Generated images are auto-imported, so they’re ready to use immediately.