Complete Guide to Prompt Engineering for Video: From Basics to Advanced

Index

Prompt Engineering Basics
Essential Keywords
Effective Prompt Structures
Practical Examples
Advanced Tips

1. Prompt Engineering Basics

Basic Principles

Prompt engineering for video is the art and science of crafting clear and detailed descriptions that guide AI models to generate moving visual content.

Core Elements of an Effective Prompt:

Clarity and Specificity: Use precise language and avoid ambiguities.
Visual Context: Describe scenarios, objects, and characters in detail.
Movement and Action: Specify how elements move or interact.
Style and Atmosphere: Set the desired visual and emotional tone.
Technical Aspects: Include camera and quality specifications.

Prompt Formula: [Main Subject] + [Action/Movement] + [Environment/Scenario] + [Visual Style] + [Technical Specifications]

2. Essential Keywords

Keyword Categories by Function

Camera Movements

Term	Description	Recommended Use
Zoom in/out	Getting closer or farther away	To focus on details or reveal context
Pan left/right	Horizontal movement	To follow action or reveal the scene
Tilt up/down	Vertical movement	To show height or depth
Dolly	Smooth camera movement	To create an immersive feeling
Tracking shot	Following a subject in motion	To follow characters
Orbital shot	Rotating around the subject	To show every angle

Styles and Moods

Category	Keywords	Visual Effect
Lighting	Cinematic lighting, golden hour, dramatic shadows	Atmosphere control
Colors	Vibrant colors, muted tones, monochromatic	Mood definition
Textures	Smooth, rough, glossy, matte	Visual realism
Artistic Styles	Photorealistic, anime style, oil painting	Overall aesthetics

Types of Movement

Smooth Movements:

Gentle sway
Slow motion
Floating
Gradual transformation

Dynamic Movements:

Fast-paced
Explosive
Rapid cuts
High-energy

3. Effective Prompt Structures

Basic Structure (Beginners)

[Subject] [doing action] [in location], [visual style], [camera movement]

Beginner Example

"A woman walking in a misty forest, cinematic style, camera following smoothly"

Advanced Structure (Pros)

[Context/Setting] + [Main Subject] + [Specific Action] + [Secondary Movements] + [Atmosphere/Mood] + [Camera Specs] + [Quality/Resolution]

Advanced Example

"In a futuristic lab lit by blue neon lights, a scientist manipulates floating holograms with precise hand gestures, light particles dance around, mysterious and techy vibe, camera in smooth orbit motion, 4K ultra HD, 60fps"

Narrative Structure (Storytelling)

For narrative videos:

Setup: Set the scene and context.
Character: Introduce the main character.
Conflict/Action: Describe what happens.
Resolution: How the scene ends.
Style: Define the visual aesthetic.

4. Practical Examples by Category

Landscapes and Nature

Prompt

"Sunrise over snow-covered mountains, golden mist slowly dissipating between the peaks, eagle flying in majestic circles, camera moving smoothly upward, warm and vibrant colors, epic cinematic style, 4K"

Analysis: Combines specific visual elements, natural movement, camera technique, and technical specs.

Characters and Emotions

Prompt:

“Close-up of a smiling child, bright eyes full of wonder, hair gently swaying in the breeze, golden late afternoon light, camera gradually focusing on the smile, warm and nostalgic atmosphere, photorealistic style"

Analysis: Emotional expression, physical details, specific lighting, subtle movement.

Urban Environments

Prompt

"Busy streets of a metropolis at night, neon lights reflecting in puddles, people walking quickly, cars passing in motion blur, camera in side tracking, vibrant colors contrasting with deep shadows, modern cyberpunk style"

Abstract Concepts