Reference video generation
Use motion references to guide an AI video take
Start with a source clip when timing, performance, or camera movement matters. Combine it with images and text to create a new scene with the same motion intent.
Bring motion into the brief
Upload a source clip
Use a short video to communicate movement, rhythm, blocking, or camera direction.
Add visual identity
Use image references for the subject, environment, styling, or product details.
Describe the transformation
Explain what should stay consistent and what the new video should change.
Made with Cinelyo
See the workflow in motion
Example prompt
Rainforest Waterfall Arrival
One continuous 5-second cinematic shot in a lush temperate rainforest after light rain. One adult male hiker in a muted rust waterproof jacket walks along a safe moss-covered path toward a tall waterfall visible through ferns. From 0-2s, the camera follows behind at hip height on a 28mm lens while wet leaves move as he passes. From 2-4s, he stops at a broad wooden lookout and turns into a stable side profile as waterfall mist drifts through a shaft of sunlight. From 4-5s, a faint natural rainbow appears in the mist while he watches quietly. Photoreal foliage, accurate water motion, coherent depth and scale, stable identity and anatomy, realistic wet fabric, restrained natural color. Audio: layered waterfall, soft footsteps on wet wood, leaves and distant forest ambience. One person only. No cuts, no unsafe climbing, no text, no logos, no watermark.
A clear path from idea to clip
A workflow built for iteration
Choose a motion reference
Upload a clip with the timing or movement you want to carry into the new scene.
Define the new scene
Describe the subject, setting, camera, look, and relationship to the source clip.
Review the transformation
Iterate on the prompt and references until the motion and new visual direction agree.
Built for real work
What this format is good for
Performance-led social clips and dance concepts
Camera path exploration for commercials
Product motion inspired by a practical reference
Character blocking and scene previsualization
Style transfers for existing movement ideas
Fast variations for campaign storyboards
Questions before you create
Reference Video FAQ
What does a reference video control?
It can communicate timing, movement, performance, blocking, or camera intent. Your prompt explains which parts should carry into the new generation.
Can I use a video with image references?
Yes. The multimodal workflow supports video references together with images and text so motion and visual identity can be specified separately.
How long can the reference video be?
Reference media is limited to the supported short-clip workflow. Keep the source focused on the movement or camera idea you want to communicate.