Support & Help
Everything you need to know about using ImageMates for AI image generation
🚀 Getting Started
Download & Install
Download ImageMates from our website or the Mac App Store. The app requires macOS 14.0+ and works best on Apple Silicon Macs.
First Launch Setup
On first launch, ImageMates will guide you through downloading your first AI model. We recommend starting with FLUX Schnell for fast generation.
Generate Your First Image
Enter a descriptive prompt in the text field and click Generate. Your first image will appear in the workspace within seconds!
Explore Advanced Features
Try different models, adjust parameters, upload reference images for image-to-image generation, and discover LoRA models for unique styles.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Installation & Setup
What are the system requirements?
Minimum: macOS 14.0+, 16GB RAM, 15GB free storage
Recommended: Apple Silicon Mac (M1/M2/M3), 32GB+ RAM, 50GB free storage for multiple models
Intel Macs are supported but generation will be slower.
Why is the initial download so large?
AI models are large files (3-12GB each) because they contain billions of parameters needed for high-quality image generation. The download only happens once per model.
Can I use ImageMates offline?
Yes! After downloading models, ImageMates works completely offline. Your prompts and images never leave your Mac, ensuring complete privacy.
Image Generation
How do I write effective prompts?
Start with a clear subject, add descriptive details, specify style or mood, and include technical terms like "professional photography" or "digital art" for better results.
Example: "A majestic mountain landscape at sunset, professional photography, HDR, dramatic lighting"
What's the difference between FLUX models?
FLUX Schnell: Fastest generation (4 steps), good for rapid iterations
FLUX Dev: Higher quality (8-50 steps), better for final artwork
FLUX Pro: Professional grade with advanced features
Why are my images blurry or low quality?
Try increasing the step count, use more descriptive prompts, ensure your guidance scale is between 3-7, or switch to FLUX Dev model for higher quality.
Performance
How can I speed up generation?
Use FLUX Schnell model, reduce steps to 4-6, use smaller image dimensions (512x512 or 768x768), and close other memory-intensive apps.
The app is using too much memory
AI models are memory-intensive. Try using quantized models (4-bit or 8-bit versions), close gallery when not needed, or restart the app after extended use.
Generation failed or crashed
This usually indicates insufficient memory. Try reducing image size, using fewer steps, closing other apps, or switching to a smaller quantized model.
Models & LoRAs
How do I add custom models?
Go to Preferences → Models, choose "Local File" and browse to your .safetensors or quantized model file. Community models from Hugging Face are also supported.
What are LoRA models?
LoRAs (Low-Rank Adaptations) are small add-on models that teach FLUX new styles, characters, or concepts. They're much smaller than full models but add powerful capabilities.
Where can I find more models?
Check our Model Guide for recommended community models, or browse Hugging Face for FLUX-compatible models and LoRAs.
🔧 Troubleshooting
🚨 Common Issues
- App won't start: Check macOS version (14.0+ required), restart Mac, reinstall app
- Model download fails: Check internet connection, ensure sufficient storage space, try again later
- Generation stuck: Cancel and try with lower resolution or fewer steps
- Blurry images: Increase steps, improve prompt detail, check guidance scale (3-7 range)
⚡ Performance Tips
- Faster generation: Use FLUX Schnell, 4-6 steps, smaller dimensions
- Better quality: Use FLUX Dev, 8-20 steps, higher resolution
- Memory issues: Use quantized models, close other apps, restart ImageMates
- Storage space: Delete old images, use external storage for model files
📁 File Management
- Find saved images: Right-click image → "Show in Finder" or check ~/Pictures/ImageMates
- Model storage: Models saved in ~/Library/Application Support/ImageMates/Models
- Backup settings: Export preferences from app settings
- Free up space: Delete unused models, compress old images
🔄 Reset & Recovery
- Reset preferences: Hold Option while launching app
- Clear model cache: Preferences → Advanced → Clear Cache
- Reinstall models: Delete and re-download if corrupted
- Complete reset: Remove ~/Library/Application Support/ImageMates
💻 System Requirements
Minimum Requirements
- macOS 14.0 (Sonoma) or later
- 16GB RAM
- 15GB free storage space
- Internet connection (for initial setup)
Required for smallest quantized models
Recommended
- Apple Silicon Mac (M1/M2/M3)
- 32GB RAM
- 50GB+ free storage
- Fast internet for model downloads
Optimal performance and quality
Professional Use
- M2 Pro/Max or M3 Pro/Max
- 32GB+ RAM
- 100GB+ free storage
- External storage for model library
Maximum performance for heavy workflows
📬 Need More Help?
📧 Email Support
For technical issues, feature requests, or general questions:
support@imagemates.appWe typically respond within 24 hours
🐛 Bug Reports
Found a bug? Help us improve ImageMates:
bugs@imagemates.appPlease include steps to reproduce the issue
💡 Feature Requests
Have an idea for a new feature?
features@imagemates.appWe love hearing from our users!
When contacting support, please include:
- ImageMates version number
- macOS version
- Mac model and specifications
- Detailed description of the issue
- Steps to reproduce (if applicable)