Room for a longer scene
Build a scene up to 30 seconds, starting with text, an image or a mix of visual and audio references.
Keep in mind
Output goes up to 1080p. References guide the result; they do not guarantee an identical face or object.
Best AI Video Engines for Reference-to-Video
A face, a place, a gesture, a sound. Give each reference one clear job.
Explore the modelsFind your starting point.
Our recommended starting order, with alternatives for different needs.
Selection reviewed
Create for a larger screen
Generate 5–15 second clips with audio, with output options up to 4K and support for image, video and audio references.
Keep in mind
Audio is generated with the clip. 4K describes output size, not a guarantee of better motion.
Give references a clear role
A 1080p option for image-led scenes, reference-guided work and video transformation. Plan what each reference should control.
Keep in mind
Inputs and audio behavior differ between modes. A storyboard is direction, not a promise that every cut will match.
Direct the beginning and end
Use opening and ending frames, mix references or extend a clip, with generation lengths up to 30 seconds.
Keep in mind
For video input and extension, source plus generated duration must fit within the 30-second limit.
Revise a short scene
Create 3–10 second scenes, guide them with images, or edit and extend a supplied clip, with output options up to 4K.
Keep in mind
Availability is limited. MCP editing needs a supplied source; conversation-based retakes stay in the website workspace.
How we choose
Seedance 2.5 starts the list for mixed references and longer scenes. H3 adds a 4K option, Kling Omni Pro suits storyboard direction, and Wan 3 Prime can draw on a broader brief. Omni Flash 1.2 is an alternative for image references and short source edits.
This is an editorial order for starting your tests, not a measured quality ranking. We consider the available inputs, duration, audio and output options for this task. The clips use different prompts and settings; a single result cannot establish which model is best. Check the full model details before you create.
Your idea. Your way in.
Choose your own settings
Pick a model, add your prompt or reference, then check the quote.
Shape it in Studio
Bring a rough idea. Develop the direction in conversation and approve the quote for each creation.
Stay with your assistant
Explore the MCP connections for your assistant, with setup and capabilities for each host.
Studio assistance and media generation have separate costs. Always review the current generation quote. Pricing →
A few things worth checking
Your scene comes first
A face, a place, a gesture, a sound. Give each reference one clear job.
The shortlist, in detail
- Seedance 2.5 — Build a scene up to 30 seconds, starting with text, an image or a mix of visual and audio references.
- MiniMax H3 — Generate 5–15 second clips with audio, with output options up to 4K and support for image, video and audio references.
- Kling 3.0 Omni Pro — A 1080p option for image-led scenes, reference-guided work and video transformation. Plan what each reference should control.
- Wan 3 Prime — Use opening and ending frames, mix references or extend a clip, with generation lengths up to 30 seconds.
- Gemini Omni Flash 1.2 — Create 3–10 second scenes, guide them with images, or edit and extend a supplied clip, with output options up to 4K.
What is the best reference-to-video model?
Seedance 2.5 starts the list for mixed references and longer scenes. H3 adds a 4K option, Kling Omni Pro suits storyboard direction, and Wan 3 Prime can draw on a broader brief. Omni Flash 1.2 is an alternative for image references and short source edits.
Is reference-to-video the same as image-to-video?
No. Image-to-video usually anchors the first frame. Reference-to-video can guide identity, style, motion, voice, or camera language without forcing every reference into the opening frame.
Which model is best for product references?
Start with Seedance 2.5, Wan 3 Prime, or Kling O3 Pro. Use a clean packshot and explicitly protect geometry, materials, and branding.
Compare two models
Compare the models
Useful side-by-side pages for validating tradeoffs before picking a model.
Explore another use case
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