Gemma release 3 and later can be used to understand and process information from both images and text. This capability enables it to perform complex tasks that require a comprehensive understanding of the world.
Specifically, this section explores how you can use visual data for prompts. Using Gemma to interpret and respond to images, videos, and other visual inputs, you can unlock powerful new applications, including:
- Image Interpretation: Gemma can be instructed to analyze and understand the content of images.
- Content Creation: Incorporating visual data into prompts allows Gemma to produce more creative and contextually appropriate content.
Do's
Here are some best practices to follow when prompting Gemma with visual data.
Be specific: If you have any specific tasks, provide sufficient context and guidance. Instead of "describe this image", try "describe the scene in this image, focusing on the relationship between the people and the objects."
Provide constraints: To achieve a particular style or tone, be sure to specify it in your prompt. For example, instead of a general story request, ask Gemma to "Write a short story about this image in the style of a film noir."
Iterative Refinement: Getting the intended output often requires experimentation and refining the prompts. Begin with a basic prompt and gradually add complexity.
Don'ts
Here are some things to avoid when prompting Gemma with visual data.
Expect Pixel-Perfect Precision from Gemma: Tasks requiring precise pixel-level analysis, such as detailed object detection and OCR, are best handled by dedicated computer vision models. Gemma, for example, cannot accurately count individual blades of grass in an image, only provide an approximation.
Vague or Ambiguous Prompts: Instead of general prompts like "Generate something based on this image", provide specific instructions to achieve intended outputs. Clearly define what "something" is. For example, a poem, recipe, or code snippet.
Ignore Model Limitations: Understanding Gemma's limitations is vital for effective use. Asking it to "Analyze this X-ray image and tell me the patient's exact medical condition" is a clear example of misuse, potentially leading to harmful medical misinformation.