---
title: "Source Image vs Reference Image | ImageQuarry"
url: https://www.imagequarry.com/faq/source-image-vs-reference-image/
last_updated: 2026-10-20
---

# What is the difference between a source image and a reference image?

The source image is the picture being changed; a reference image only guides the change. Edits keep the source's content and layout as the starting point, while a reference contributes one quality, such as a texture, color, light or character, without becoming the picture itself.

Example: a portrait in a plain jacket is the source. A close-up of pleated fabric is the reference. The instruction "use this texture on the jacket; keep the face, hands, crop and background" changes the source using the reference for one detail.

Mixing them up is a common cause of odd results: if the model treats a reference as the source, you get its subject or layout instead of your picture. Labeling them in the prompt ("image 1 is the photo to edit, image 2 is the fabric") avoids it.

ImageQuarry works this way: you can upload a source, add one or more references, and review each new version to see how closely it followed them.

_Source: the ImageQuarry homepage (source and reference examples), checked October 20, 2026._

Next step: [What is a reference image in AI image generation?](https://www.imagequarry.com/faq/what-is-a-reference-image-in-ai/)

## Related questions

- [What is a reference image in AI image generation?](https://www.imagequarry.com/faq/what-is-a-reference-image-in-ai/): A picture that shows the model what you mean.
- [Can I upload my own photo and edit it with AI?](https://www.imagequarry.com/faq/can-i-upload-my-own-photo-to-edit-with-ai/): Yes, most AI editors start from an uploaded photo.
- [Will AI copy my reference image exactly?](https://www.imagequarry.com/faq/will-ai-copy-my-reference-exactly/): No. It follows the direction, not every detail.
- [How do I tell AI what to keep unchanged in an edit?](https://www.imagequarry.com/faq/how-do-i-tell-ai-what-to-keep/): Name what stays, then the one change you want.

Last reviewed 2026-10-20 by ImageQuarry.

## Your photo, guided by your references

Upload the source, add a reference for the detail you want, and review the new version.