5.1.10.3 - Generating Consistent AI Characters for Brands (Difficulty: Advanced | Path: Scale)

The DNA of AI Images: The Seed

What is a Seed?

When an AI generates an image, it starts with a field of random static (like an old TV) and hallucinates a picture out of it. That starting pattern of static is defined by a number called a Seed. If you use the exact same prompt with the exact same seed, the AI will generate the exact same image.

Why it matters for consistency

If you generate a 'Cute robot holding a flower' and love the design, but then want to generate 'Cute robot holding a coffee', changing the prompt usually changes the robot entirely. However, if you lock the seed (keep the number the same), the AI will try to generate the new image using the same starting patterns. It helps retain the 'vibe' and composition, though it is rarely perfect on its own. It is the foundational first step of consistency.

Actionable Step

In Midjourney, you can find the seed of any image by reacting to it with an envelope emoji (✉️). In Stable Diffusion or Leonardo, the seed is usually displayed in the image details. Save this number. It is your character's digital DNA.