AI video generation

Hi!

Last week we looked at AI generated images. This week we’re turning our attention to videos.

As with image generators, we’re seeing massive leaps forward in the quality of videos created using AI video generators. 

But with lots of tools out there and new updates released regularly, it can be hard to know where to start.

So, let's break down some key factors to consider when choosing an AI video generation tool.

• Purpose

  If you’re using AI tools at work e.g. creating a video for a marketing campaign or social media content, your needs will likely differ from someone creating videos for entertainment or an art project.
  

• Skill level
  If you’re completely new to video creation then you might appreciate a tool that leads you through the process step-by-step whereas someone with more experience might prefer options with extensive customization and editing features.  
  

• Cost
  If you need to create lots of videos or access specific features, you’ll probably need a paid plan. However, many tools offer free trials or limited access, giving you a chance to try before you buy. 

Identifying your priorities will help you find the AI tool best suited to your needs. So, what's currently on offer in the world of AI video generation?

1. Input options

Like AI image creators, you can generate a video with a simple text prompt (invideo has some great functionality here). But that's just the beginning:

• Written content like blog posts or scripts can serve as the basis for your videos. Check out Zebracat, VEED or Simplified for a few options

• You’re not just limited to text prompts, visual references can also be used - tools like Luma's Dream Machine and Runway Gen-3 let you provide images as input

• You don’t always need to start from scratch either. Some tools offer templates which you can then edit to get your desired result - perfect for novices or those on tight deadlines
  

2. AI avatars and voices

For presentations, tutorials or educational content, you might want to use an avatar or narrator. Some tools offer stock avatars while others allow you to customize them.

An AI narrator can read your script which saves you from the sometimes tedious job of recording and re-recording your own voiceover. Companies like Speechify give you different voice and accent options with the ability to adjust speed, tone etc. to your liking.

If you make use of voice cloning technology through tools like Speechify or Elevenlabs you can use your own avatar and your cloned voice to quickly and easily create video content without having to appear on-screen yourself. Synthesia will even translate you into 29 different languages.

3. Editing capabilities

The chances of you nailing your video on the first go are slim so you should expect to make edits.

Runway Gen-3 is a great tool for creating short clips and allows various post-generation edits so you can play around with lighting, contrast, timing or characters in a generated scene. 

If you’re starting with a video you’ve created yourself, Descript has some fantastic AI editing options to remove filler words, add captions or a transcript. You can even adjust your gaze so that eye contact with the camera is maintained (even if you were reading from a script or distracted momentarily by something off-camera in reality!) 

Top tip - combine AI tools

Don't limit yourself to just one tool! Mix and match for better results. 

• Use an AI image generator to create visual references for your video generator

• Draft a video script with a generative AI tool, then feed it into an AI video generator

Take inspiration from other creators like levelsio who combined PHOTO AI, Flux, Kling and synclabs to create a realistic Youtuber video. Or check out @AngryTomtweets on X who animated famous historical figures using paintings, illustrations and photos as the basis.

The world of AI video generation is evolving rapidly, offering exciting possibilities for creators at all levels. Don't be afraid to experiment with different tools to find what works best for your needs.

Take advantage of free trials to test the waters before committing. And most importantly, have fun getting creative with these powerful new technologies.

OK, speak soon!

Inge
Top Apps Founder

P.S. Check out the Top Apps AI courses here.