Motivra

Reference image to video

Image to Video AI Generator

Animate a photo or use several reference images to guide a new video with Seedance. Describe the movement you want and check the credit quote before generating.

Reference images

JPG, PNG or WebP, up to 20 MB each.

Reference images

JPG, PNG or WebP, up to 20 MB each. At least 320 px per side. Images are resized to 1600 px and converted to JPEG.

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Use only media you have permission to use. Uploaded inputs are kept for 24 hours. Finished videos stay in My videos until you delete them.

How to animate a photo with AI

  1. Add reference images

    Upload images you have permission to use. Stay within the selected model’s image limit.

  2. Describe the new video

    Explain the action, setting and camera movement you want, alongside your reference images.

  3. Set parameters and generate

    Choose duration, resolution and aspect ratio, review the credits, then submit when the model is available.

Image-to-video example: two portraits, one performance

This Hotel Lobby Duo clip was generated from two reference portraits. Each portrait guides one performer in a new vertical scene with its own lighting and motion.

Open the Hotel Lobby Duo template

Before you generate

Treat images as guidance

Reference images guide subject, appearance and style. The generated video is new and may differ from the references.

Explain the intended motion

Use the prompt to describe movement and framing rather than assuming the model will infer your full scene.

Review each model’s limits

Check the allowed reference count and output settings. A reference image is not a guaranteed starting frame.

Image to Video FAQ

Will the video start from my uploaded image?

Not necessarily. The current Seedance routes use reference images to guide a new video. They do not guarantee a matching opening frame or preserved image details.

How many reference images can I use?

The registered Seedance routes accept 1 to 9 reference images. Other models can have different limits; check the selected model in the studio.

Can I choose duration and resolution?

Yes, within the selected model’s registered options. The studio shows the compatible durations, resolutions and aspect ratios.

Can I turn one photo into a video?

Yes. Upload one photo and describe the motion, such as a slow camera push toward a product. Use extra reference images if you want to guide more details.

What kind of photo works well for image-to-video?

Use a sharp, evenly lit photo with a clear subject and room for the movement you want. A close-up suits a small head turn. For a walking shot, start with more of the body in frame. A clean background makes the subject easier to distinguish.

When should I use more than one photo?

Use an extra photo to show another angle of the same subject or give a separate visual reference, such as a location. Say what each photo should guide. For a two-person Hotel Lobby duet, use the template’s two portrait slots to set the left and right performers. Extra references do not automatically create a slideshow or a specific transition.

Turn your photos into a video

Add your photos, describe the motion and pick the output settings in the studio above.

Open reference studio