Character Consistency
The Consistency Challenge
One of the biggest challenges in AI image generation is maintaining character consistency across multiple images. By default, each generation produces a different result, even with the same prompt.
Technique 1: IP-Adapter (Image Prompt Adapter)
IP-Adapter uses an image as a prompt alongside text. It analyzes visual features from a reference image and injects them into the generation process.
Key Parameters
- weight (0.0-2.0): reference image influence strength
- IP-Adapter FaceID: specialized for facial identity preservation
Technique 2: Character LoRA
Train a LoRA on 10-20 images of your character using tools like Kohya_ss, then reuse it in any scene.
LoRA Parameters
- strength_model (0.6-0.9): influence on the diffusion model
- strength_clip (0.6-0.9): influence on text encoding
Technique 3: Fixed Seed + Detailed Prompt
The simplest method: fix the seed and use a detailed character description prompt. Limited but effective for minor variations.
Technique 4: Reactor (Face Swap)
Post-processing face swap that replaces generated faces with a reference photo.
Recommended Strategy: Combine Techniques
- Basic: Fixed seed + detailed prompt
- Good: IP-Adapter with reference image (weight 0.7-0.8)
- Excellent: IP-Adapter FaceID + Character LoRA + Reactor post-processing
Best Practices
- Create a "character sheet" with detailed prompt + reference image + base seed
- Test at low resolution first
- Keep a reference folder for each character
- Document your parameters
- Always use the same base model for a given project