Aspect ratio is a generate setting, not a crop in Canva after the AI image generator finishes.
9:16, 1:1, 16:9 — pick before you spend the credit.
Why lock ratio before text to image?
The model composes for that frame; cropping a 1:1 to 9:16 cuts faces and logos.
Set 9:16 for Stories, 1:1 for feed, 16:9 for thumbs, then write the prompt.
How do you reuse a winner across ratios?
Run image to image with the new ratio and “keep subject, refit canvas.”
Do not start a brand-new text to image unless the composition cannot survive a refit.
Which model for a same-day social batch?
Nano Banana for volume tests; GPT-4o image if the still includes headline type.
Midjourney-style for a hero mood still. Switch models without leaving the AI image generator.
How many credits does a three-ratio set take?
Three stills if you generate each ratio; two if you refit with image to image. 5 free credits cover a first set.
Basic is $1/month for 10 credits. Typical wait is 30 seconds–2 minutes per still.
Start in text to image or image to image, pick a model such as GPT-4o image, then check pricing from $1/month and how credits work before a long run.