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CupCut - Free AI Video GeneratorCupCut

CapCut AI video tutorial

How to Make a Video with CapCut AI

Follow the complete CupCut workflow for CapCut AI text-to-video and image-to-video. Learn how to write a motion prompt, choose a model and aspect ratio, generate the clip, and download the result.

Create an AI VideoRead the Steps

2 modes

Text-to-video and image-to-video

3 formats

Portrait, landscape, and square

Online

Generate and download in your browser

Workflow

CapCut AI video workflow from prompt to download

Step 1

1 min

Choose text-to-video or image-to-video

Open CupCut in your browser. Choose text-to-video to create a clip from a written idea, or image-to-video to animate a reference image with controlled motion.

  • Use text-to-video when the scene starts as an idea.
  • Use image-to-video when the subject or composition must follow a source image.

Step 2

1-2 min

Write a clear motion prompt

Describe the subject, action, environment, camera movement, lighting, and mood. For example: 'A red sports car turns onto a wet city street at night, low tracking shot, neon reflections, cinematic lighting.'

  • Use action verbs such as turns, rises, walks, or zooms.
  • Describe one main camera movement instead of combining several conflicting moves.

Step 3

1 min

Add a reference image when needed

For CapCut AI image-to-video, upload a clear PNG, JPG, or WEBP image and describe how the subject, camera, or background should move. Keep the requested motion consistent with the image.

  • Use a sharp image with a clear subject.
  • Avoid asking the subject to change identity, shape, and setting at the same time.

Step 4

1 min

Choose the model, duration, and aspect ratio

Select an available video model and clip duration. Use 9:16 for TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts; 16:9 for YouTube, websites, and presentations; or 1:1 for square placements.

  • Match the aspect ratio to the channel before generating.
  • Processing time and available duration depend on the selected model.

Step 5

Varies by model

Generate and review the video

Start the generation and follow its progress in CupCut. Review the finished motion, composition, and framing. If the result misses the intended action, revise one prompt detail and generate another version.

  • Change one variable at a time so you can see what improved.
  • Simplify the motion request if the scene becomes unstable.

Step 6

1 min

Download and publish the result

Download the completed video from your generation history. Publish it as a social clip, product video, ad concept, website visual, presentation asset, or starting point for further editing.

  • Save successful prompts for future campaign variations.
  • Check framing, brand details, and product claims before publishing.

Pro tips

CapCut AI video prompt tips

Describe the subject and motion first

A useful CapCut AI video prompt explains what is in the scene and what changes during the clip.

  • Start with the subject and one clear action.
  • Add the environment, lighting, mood, and visual style.
  • Use concrete movement such as walking, turning, drifting, or rising.

Control the camera and pacing

Camera language helps the video model understand how the viewer should move through the scene.

  • Try a close-up, wide shot, slow pan, tracking shot, or gentle zoom.
  • Use slow motion or fast pacing only when it supports the action.
  • Avoid stacking several camera moves into one short clip.

Write for the publishing format

Plan the composition around the channel where the finished AI video will appear.

  • Keep the subject centered for vertical TikTok, Reels, and Shorts.
  • Leave room for product details or captions in marketing videos.
  • Generate separate variations for different aspect ratios instead of cropping one result.

FAQ

Common questions before you start

How do I use the CapCut AI video generator online?

Open CupCut, choose text-to-video or image-to-video, enter a motion prompt, select the model and output settings, then generate and download the result in your browser.

What should I include in a CapCut AI text-to-video prompt?

Include the subject, action, environment, camera movement, lighting, mood, and style. Keep the main action clear and avoid combining too many scene changes in one short prompt.

How do I use CapCut AI image-to-video?

Upload a clear reference image, describe how the subject or camera should move, choose the model, duration, and aspect ratio, then generate the animated clip.

Which aspect ratio should I use for social media video?

Use 9:16 for TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts, 16:9 for YouTube and websites, or 1:1 for square social placements.