How to Use Reference Images with Generative Fill in Photoshop 2026

How to Use Reference Images with Generative Fill in Photoshop 2026

Photoshop 2026 introduces reference image support for Generative Fill, letting you show AI exactly what object you want instead of describing it with text. This feature transforms how you swap clothing, add accessories, or replace objects by using actual photographs as your guide.

The tool intelligently adapts your reference objects to match the lighting, perspective, and style of your target image while maintaining realistic proportions and shadows.

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Video by PHLEARN. Any links or downloads mentioned by the creator are available only on YouTube

Practical Tips

These techniques will help you get better results when using reference images with Generative Fill:

  • Use the Object Selection Tool's "Select People" option for precise clothing selections on human subjects
  • Choose "Swap Selected Area" when replacing existing items, or "Place into Selected Area" when adding new objects
  • Manually isolate complex reference objects in separate files when the AI includes unwanted elements
  • Click the enhance detail icon after generation to improve resolution and match your original photo quality
  • Monitor your credit usage by hovering over the Firefly icon - each generation uses three credits

Explore more advanced techniques and recent updates for creative editing workflows.

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