This Django API converts images to pixel art using Google's Gemini API.

1. Install dependencies:

   pip install -r requirements.txt

2. Set up your Gemini API key:

   # Copy the example file
   cp .env.example .env
   
   # Edit .env and add your API key
   # Get your key from: https://aistudio.google.com/app/apikey

3. Add your reference pixel art image: Place your reference pixel art sprite at media/pixel_art/reference.png

4. Run the Django server:

   python manage.py runserver

1. Test Gemini setup:

   python test_gemini.py

2. Test the API endpoint:

   python test_api_request.py

If you're getting pixelated output instead of AI-generated pixel art:

1. Check the Django server console for error messages
2. Verify your API key is correct
3. Ensure you have an active internet connection
4. Check if the Gemini API service is available

The API will fall back to simple pixelation if the Gemini API fails.