Video and image references
Select the right input mode before writing the generation prompt.
Define the relationship to the source
Use production_method_resolve to distinguish edit_source (change the source while preserving other properties), transfer_properties (make new material borrowing named properties) and reinterpret (author a new adaptation). State which actions, timing, framing and audio must remain. A reference-to-video interface can be a compatible option; do not choose a model only because its name contains “edit”.
Reference modes
| Mode | Required material | Best fit |
|---|---|---|
| image_to_video | An image bound as first_frame. | Animate an already prepared opening composition. |
| reference_to_video | Images with character, product, scene, style or composition roles; motion video if supported. | Generate with subject and action references. |
| image_edit | One or more reference images accepted by the profile. | Prepare a product, character or staged reference frame. |
| video_to_video | A source_video plus supported image references. | Apply a compatible source-video edit. |
Example profile limits
The checked minimax-storyboard-i2v example accepts one first-frame image, up to 10 MiB and 16,777,216 pixels. minimax-storyboard-references accepts 1–9 images and up to 3 motion videos; each motion video is 2–15 seconds, with at most 15 seconds combined. Its reference-image minimum dimension is 256 pixels and each motion video is limited to 20 MiB. These are repository profile limits, not universal provider limits; re-read generationInput on your connection.
Prepare shots and review continuity
For each shot, describe the initial state, visible action, camera behavior, final state and transition. Choose motion_reference, stage_first_frame or direct only when appropriate to that shot. Staging a first frame is an optional workflow choice, not an automatic image purchase. Keep final edited duration separate from generated clip duration. After generation, check action order, product identity, cut timing and audio; matching resolution and duration alone does not establish a successful remake.