Here’s how I’ve been using Gemini’s photo-to-video tool as a multimedia storyteller, plus some tips for making your own videos.

As a creative producer at Google, I bring our stories to life for social posts, video series and events for Googlers. I’m always looking for new ways to create content and engage with audiences around the world.

Enter from stage left: Gemini’s photo-to-video capability, powered by Veo 3. From just an image or written prompt, Gemini will generate an eight-second video clip with sound — including sound effects, ambient background noise and speech.

Here are three ways I use photo-to-video in Gemini, plus some beginner tips for prompting your own videos.

1. Animate illustrations

Turn an illustration into an animation for more compelling visuals in presentations, newsletters and videos.


2. Turn photography into a motion picture

Transform photos into lifelike video clips, or use your imagination to add whimsy. Start with a simple, high-level prompt, and Gemini will fill in the gaps.

3. Articulate an artistic vision

Pitching (and landing!) creative ideas is an important part of my day-to-day. Realistic renderings from Gemini can better visualize my concept for others, making my pitches more effective.

In this case, the prompt needs to be detailed and precise. While this may be more time-consuming, I find that it’s faster than constructing from a text-only prompt. Gemini’s output based on our real set is also more helpful than using sample photos that may only partially convey my vision. If you need a hand, ask Gemini to help refine and add camera control instructions to your prompt for even better results.