The Real Problem Behind Most Visual Ads

Most ads fail not because they look bad, but because they are created without a clear structure. Tools are blamed, but the real issue is usually unclear thinking.

Business owners and marketers often:

• Start designing before clarifying the message
• Rely too heavily on templates
• Struggle to adapt visuals across platforms

Strong ads start with structure. AI simply accelerates execution once the thinking is clear.

Why Use ChatGPT Together with Canva?

Canva is excellent for editing and layout. ChatGPT excels at generating original visual concepts from scratch.

When combined:

• ChatGPT generates a unique visual direction (not just templates)
• Canva refines, resizes, and adapts designs for real platforms
• You maintain control over brand, messaging, and CTA

This workflow gives you both creative flexibility and execution precision.

What You’ll Need

• Canva Pro account (for AI features)
• ChatGPT account (Free or Plus)
• A simple layout idea (Word, Canva, or paper sketch)
• Product or event images (preferably transparent PNG)
• Brand assets (logo, colors, fonts – optional but recommended)

The AI Visual Ad Workflow

Step 1: Define the Ad Structure (Before Design)

Before generating any image, decide:

• Main headline
• Primary visual focus
• Logo placement
• CTA (e.g. Register, Learn More, Buy Now)

This structure becomes the instruction set for ChatGPT.

Step 2: Generate the Base Visual in ChatGPT

Upload your layout reference and assets. Select the Image feature in ChatGPT.

Use a clear, modular prompt. Describe each element separately to avoid clutter.

Generate a vertical event poster for a business workshop.

Aspect ratio: 9:16  
Background: Clean, modern, light neutral with subtle abstract shapes  
Main subject: Professional business audience in discussion (abstract, no faces required)  
Text:  
Headline: “AI for Business Leaders” (bold, centered)  
Subtext: “Boost Productivity, Strategy & Growth”  
Date & Time: “21 Oct | 8:30–9:30 PM”  
CTA: “Register on Eventsize”  
Logo: Small, bottom center  

Style: Corporate, modern, trustworthy  
Color accents: maroon and white
      

Generate a square Facebook feed ad for an AI business workshop.

Aspect ratio: 1:1  
Background: Soft gradient with subtle tech pattern  
Main subject: Laptop, charts, and abstract AI icons  
Text:  
Headline: “Still Busy, Not Productive?”  
Subtext: “Learn how AI leaders work smarter”  
CTA: “Save Your Seat”  
Logo: Small, bottom right  

Style: Professional, minimal, high contrast  
Colors: Maroon, white, light grey
      

Step 3: Refine and Adapt in Canva

Upload the generated image into Canva. Use AI tools such as:

• Magic Grab – separate and move visual elements
• Grab Text – extract and edit text
• Magic Expand – resize for different platforms

Canva is where you finalise brand consistency and platform optimisation.

What You Can Use This For

• Event promotions (Eventsize, webinars, workshops)
• Facebook and Instagram feed ads
• Website banners and landing pages
• Posters, flyers, and digital signage
• Social media carousel covers

Next Steps

• Create one ad using this workflow
• Adapt it into two different aspect ratios
• Test clarity before testing creativity

AI does not replace marketing judgment. It removes friction so you can focus on message, positioning, and results.