How to write AI video prompts that look cinematic
A great text-to-video prompt reads like a director describing one shot. Use this six-part formula, then copy one of the examples below and make it yours.
The formula: six parts of a good prompt
Who or what is on screen. Be specific about looks.
e.g. a fluffy corgi wearing sunglasses
What happens during the 5 seconds. One clear action works best.
e.g. surfing a giant turquoise wave
Where and when it happens.
e.g. on a sunny day, splashes everywhere
Shot size and movement: close-up, wide, drone shot, slow dolly in, orbit.
e.g. low-angle tracking shot
The single biggest quality lever: golden hour, neon, candle-lit, studio light.
e.g. bright midday sun, sparkling water
The look: cinematic, realistic, anime, 3D cartoon, product ad.
e.g. 3D animated film style
Put together: “A fluffy corgi wearing sunglasses surfing a giant turquoise wave on a sunny day, low-angle tracking shot, bright midday sun, 3D animated film style.”
Copy-ready AI video prompt examples
Product ad
A sleek glass perfume bottle rotating on a white marble pedestal, soft studio light, slow orbit camera, clean background, premium commercial look
Travel reel
Aerial drone shot flying over white cliffside villages above a turquoise sea at golden hour, warm light, sweeping camera movement
Food
Slow motion close-up of a steaming bowl of ramen, chopsticks lifting noodles, dark moody background, warm rim light
Tiny story
A little girl in a red raincoat opens a glowing golden door in an enchanted moonlit forest, fireflies, warm magical light spilling out
Anime
Anime style: a young hero standing on a rooftop at sunset as cherry blossom petals fly past, wind in her hair, vibrant colours
Nature
Northern lights dancing over a small wooden cabin in a snowy forest, warm light in the window, slow push-in
Tips for better results
- Keep it to one scene and one main action. A 5-second film can't fit a whole story.
- Name the camera move. "Slow dolly in" or "drone shot" instantly makes it feel filmed.
- Describe light and colour. "Golden hour" or "neon reflections on wet pavement" changes everything.
- Avoid on-screen text, logos and brand names. AI video models can't spell reliably yet.
- Don't use real people's names. Describe a character instead.
- Short is fine. If you're stuck, write one line and press Enhance in Kinoa.
Have a video you love?
Use Video → Prompt: upload a clip and Kinoa writes the prompt to recreate its camera, light and style.