Video Generation Guide

Use Generate Video to animate a still image. Choose a model first: available lengths, frame inputs, audio, and LoRAs depend on that model. The pricing page lists the current per-second rates.

Make a first clip

  1. Choose a video model. For a first attempt, keep its default settings.
  2. Add a clear First Frame image. Start with one subject and enough room in the frame for the motion you want.
  3. Choose the clip duration and write one motion instruction. Describe what moves, how fast it moves, and whether the camera moves.
  4. Review the available settings and price, then generate. Follow the job in Results; on mobile, open the Results tab.

Copy-ready example:

A red fox lifts its head and looks toward the stream. Its ears turn slightly as a breeze moves the grass. The camera stays still in a medium shot. Soft morning light remains consistent.

The first frame already supplies much of the subject, composition, and style. Spend the prompt on changes over time. A short clip usually works best with one main action rather than several scene changes.

Write motion and camera instructions

Use this simple structure:

[subject action] + [background motion] + [camera movement or static camera] + [end state]

For example, the cyclist rides past the camera; her coat moves in the wind; the camera pans slowly right; she exits the frame gives a clear sequence. Avoid conflicting directions such as “locked camera” and “fast orbit” in the same shot.

If a clip looks unstable, reduce the amount of action and camera travel. If it looks static, use a more visible action: turns toward the window is easier to judge than feels hopeful.

Choose the right model guide

  • Wan 2.2: begin with a first frame and a concise motion prompt. Try another seed or simpler action if the result drifts. The video tool offers different output resolutions; check their prices before submitting.
  • MiniMax H3: supports first-frame and optional last-frame image-to-video with synchronized audio. Use the MiniMax H3 Prompting Guide for its structured sound and shot instructions.
  • LTX 2.3: add a required first frame and, optionally, a last frame to guide the ending. This works with LTX 2.3 Base and DragonLeap; select either checkpoint and its available settings in the video tool.

Model-specific controls are shown in the generator. A setting available for one model may be absent for another.

Use an existing image

Open a finished image and select Animate when available. This loads it into the video workflow. Review the model, frame, prompt, length, and price before submitting; the image does not dictate the motion on its own.

If you own the input image, you can also return to the image generator or Magic Edit to prepare a clearer first frame before animating it.