Gen4 Image
Gen4 Image from Runway offers precise control over image generation using up to 3 reference images with a unique tagging system.
Overview
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Provider | Runway |
| Cost | 100 credits |
| Modality | Image |
| Reference Images | Up to 3 |
| Prompt Required | Yes |
What It's Best For
- Reference-based generation — Precise control with tags
- Multi-angle captures — Different views of same subject
- Product photography — Consistent product shots
- Character consistency — Maintain appearance across images
- Controlled compositions — Exact placement via tags
Inputs
Prompt (Required)
Describe the image, using @tag to reference your images.
Connection Color: 🟡 Yellow
Reference Images (Optional)
Up to 3 reference images (0.5-2 aspect ratio).
Connection Color: 🟢 Green
Configuration
Aspect Ratio
Type: Select
Default: 16:9
| Option | Use Case |
|---|---|
| 16:9 | Widescreen |
| 9:16 | Portrait |
| 4:3 / 3:4 | Standard |
| 1:1 | Square |
| 21:9 | Ultrawide |
Resolution
Type: Select
Default: 1080p
| Option | Quality |
|---|---|
| 720p | Standard |
| 1080p | High quality |
Reference Tags
Type: Text
Comma-separated tags for reference images (3-15 characters, alphanumeric, start with letter).
Example: product, model, background
Seed
Type: Number
For reproducible results.
Output
Type: Image
Connection Color: 🟢 Green
Tagging System
Gen4 Image uses a unique tagging system to reference images in your prompt:
- Upload reference images
- Assign tags in the Reference Tags field
- Use @tag in your prompt to reference specific images
Example
Reference Tags: sneaker, model, studio
Prompt:
Professional product photo of @sneaker worn by @model
in @studio setting, dramatic lighting, commercial quality.
Use Cases
Product with Model
Reference Tags: product, person
Prompt: @person holding @product in a modern kitchen,
natural lighting, lifestyle photography.
Multi-Angle Product
Reference Tags: front, side, detail
Prompt: Product showcase combining @front view with
@detail closeup, white background, studio lighting.
Scene Composition
Reference Tags: subject, background
Prompt: Place @subject in @background scene,
natural integration, matching lighting.
Tips for Best Results
- Use descriptive tags — "product", "model", "scene"
- Reference in context — "@product on the table"
- Match lighting descriptions — Consistent across references
- Keep aspect ratios compatible — 0.5-2 range
- Use 1080p for quality — Worth the processing time
Comparison
| Feature | Gen4 Image | Flux 2 Pro | Nano Banana Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | 100 credits | 120 credits | 600 credits |
| Max References | 3 | 8 | 14 |
| Tagging System | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Max Resolution | 1080p | 4MP | 4K |
When to Choose Gen4 Image
Choose when:
- You need precise reference control
- Tagging system fits your workflow
- 3 references are sufficient
Consider alternatives when:
- You need more references (Flux, Nano Banana)
- Higher resolution is required
- Budget is tight
Related Models
- Flux 2 Pro — More references, no tags
- Nano Banana Pro — 14 references
- Seedream 4.5 — 14 references