Frustrated with your AI video results? You're probably making one of these seven common mistakes. Here's how to identify and fix each one.
Mistake 1: Being Too Vague
A nice video of nature
The AI has infinite interpretations of "nice" and "nature." You'll get random, unfocused results.
A misty forest at dawn with sunbeams filtering through tall pine trees, slow cinematic pan, peaceful and ethereal atmosphere
Mistake 2: Overloading Your Prompt
A woman walking her dog while talking on the phone and it's raining and there's a rainbow and cars passing by and birds flying overhead and she's carrying an umbrella and groceries
Too many elements compete for attention. The AI struggles to render everything well.
Focus on 2-3 key elements maximum. "A woman walking her golden retriever on a rainy city street, colorful umbrella overhead, reflections on wet pavement, cinematic urban mood
Mistake 3: Requesting Readable Text
A sign that says 'SALE 50% OFF' in clear letters
Current AI video models struggle with consistent, readable text. Letters often appear distorted or change between frames.
Avoid text entirely, or describe the concept: "A bright red sale banner waving in the wind, retail store atmosphere, promotional energy
Mistake 4: Ignoring Lighting
A person sitting at a desk
Without lighting direction, you get flat, uninteresting visuals.
Always specify lighting: "A person sitting at a desk, warm lamp light casting soft shadows, cozy evening atmosphere, gentle rim lighting from a window
Mistake 5: Contradictory Instructions
A fast-paced action scene that's calm and peaceful
Conflicting directions confuse the AI, leading to incoherent results.
Pick one mood and commit: "A high-energy action scene with dynamic camera movement, intense and thrilling, sharp motion blur
Mistake 6: Forgetting Motion
A beautiful sunset over the ocean
This describes a photo, not a video. You'll get minimal, awkward movement.
Explicitly describe motion: "Golden sunset over a calm ocean, gentle waves lapping the shore, clouds slowly drifting, camera slowly pushing forward, peaceful golden hour atmosphere
Mistake 7: Not Specifying Style
A cat playing with a toy
Without style guidance, results vary wildly and rarely match your vision.
Add aesthetic direction: "A fluffy white cat playfully batting at a feather toy, soft natural lighting, warm cozy home interior, gentle and heartwarming, lifestyle photography style
Quick Checklist Before You Generate
Before hitting generate, ask yourself:
- Is my subject clearly described?
- Have I specified the action/movement?
- Is the setting/environment clear?
- Did I include lighting direction?
- Is the mood/style defined?
- Am I focused on 2-3 key elements?
- Are there any contradictions?
Run through this checklist and watch your success rate improve dramatically.