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AI, Make A Picture So It’ll Last Longer: A Super Saver's Guide to Unique Gifts

 


Hey there, Super Saver! Ever found yourself in a pinch trying to find a gift for that special someone who seems to have everything? Or maybe you're scratching your head over what to get for someone with interests as specific as a needle's eye? Fear not! Artificial intelligence (AI) is here to save the day (and your wallet). 


AI to the Rescue

Sure, you could ask AI for some gift ideas, and it might suggest some pretty cool options. But let's take it up a notch. How about creating a one-of-a-kind image with generative AI? It's a fresh spin on the classic photo gift, and you don’t need to hire an artist or snap hundreds of photos. And, in true Super Saver fashion, I’m going to show you how to do it without breaking the bank.


Step 1: Find a Free Image Generator

There are tons of free AI image generators out there, so you’re bound to find one that suits your needs. I often use Microsoft Designer for image generation. It requires a Microsoft account, but it’s completely free to use. It saves your image history and allows you to enhance your creations with additional design tools. For more control over aspect ratios and orientation, I turn to Stable Diffusion. Sign up for the free tier, and you can create 10 images every 24 hours, with your creations accessible for 7 days.


Step 2: Create and Download an Image

Generative AI can whip up an image based on a few descriptive words. Some models even let you upload images to create something entirely new. If this sounds like techno-babble, don’t worry – there are plenty of tutorials, videos, and courses to help you out. If you’re aiming for a small gift, one image should do the trick. For something grander, create three or more images to ensure good resolution. Once you’re happy with your masterpiece, download it for later use.


Step 3: Look for Deals on Photo Gifts

Photo services often flaunt their discounts, especially around holidays like Christmas and Mother’s Day. Sign up for retailer notifications to snag exclusive deals and freebies. When choosing a service, consider delivery options. CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart offer same-day pickup or delivery, while online options like Shutterfly, Personalization Mall, and Snapfish may include shipping fees or require a high order total for free shipping.


A Real-Life Super Saver Scenario

Let’s rewind to May. I was low on cash, and Father’s Day was looming. My dad, bless him, isn’t the easiest guy to shop for. Then, an email from Walgreens saved the day: an 11x14 poster, usually $12.99, for just $1.99! Score! I knew I needed multiple images for a poster that size, so I turned to Stable Diffusion and Microsoft Copilot in Bing. I created a few images that captured my dad’s essence (at least, how I see him). After downloading and renaming the images, I uploaded them to Walgreens Photo and found a collage layout that worked perfectly. I even used ChatGPT (the free version) to whip up a Father’s Day message for the poster. The next day, I picked up my order and framed it in a $3.44 Walmart poster frame.


Conclusion

There you have it, Super Saver! AI can help you craft a unique, personalized gift without draining your bank account. With free AI tools and savvy shopping, you can create memorable gifts that stand out. So next time you're stumped for a gift, remember: AI is your friend, and a picture really can last longer!

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