Google's Veo 2 video generation model, integrated into Gemini, offers users the ability to produce short, cinematic-quality videos from simple text descriptions. This technology converts your ideas into vivid 8-second video clips at 720p resolution with a 16:9 aspect ratio, all packaged in MP4 format. Access to Veo 2 is available for Gemini Advanced users subscribed to Google One AI Premium.

Generating Videos in Gemini Using Veo 2

Step 1: Open the Gemini app or visit the Gemini website and sign in with your Google One AI Premium account that includes Gemini Advanced access.

Step 2: Locate the model selector dropdown menu, typically found in the upper left corner of the interface. From this menu, choose the "Veo 2" video generation model to enable AI video creation.

Step 3: In the input box, enter a detailed description of the video scene you want to create. The clarity and specificity of your prompt directly influence the quality and accuracy of the generated video. Include elements such as the subject, actions, setting, camera angles, lighting, and style to guide the AI effectively.

Step 4: Submit your prompt by clicking the send button. Gemini will process the request, typically taking a few minutes to generate the video. You may see a message indicating the video is being created and that you should check back later.

Step 5: Once the video is ready, it will appear in your chat or output area. You can download the video by clicking the download button or share it directly to social media platforms such as YouTube Shorts and TikTok using the share option.

Using Whisk Animate to Turn Images into Videos

Whisk Animate is a companion tool that allows Google One AI Premium subscribers to animate images into 8-second video clips using Veo 2 technology. This feature supports both text and image prompts, enabling you to bring static images to life with smooth motion and cinematic effects.

To use Whisk Animate, visit labs.google/whisk, upload or create an image, and apply animation settings as desired. The tool will generate an animated video clip that you can download or share.

Crafting Effective Prompts for Video Generation

Successful video creation with Veo 2 depends on how well you communicate your vision through prompts. Consider including the following elements in your descriptions:

  • Subject: Define the main focus, such as a person, animal, object, or scene.
  • Action: Specify what the subject is doing, e.g., walking, reading, or driving.
  • Setting: Describe the environment or background, such as a forest, beach, or urban street.
  • Camera Angles and Movement: Indicate perspectives like close-up, aerial view, or tracking shot.
  • Lighting and Ambiance: Mention time of day, mood, or lighting conditions like soft sunlight or twilight.
  • Style: Suggest artistic or cinematic styles, such as realistic, cartoon, or noir.

For example, a detailed prompt might be: "A close-up shot of a crystal perfume bottle with rose gold accents resting on polished white marble, soft diffused lighting highlighting its facets, with a delicate hand gently touching the bottle's top."

Integrating Veo 2 into Development Workflows

Developers can incorporate Veo 2 video generation directly into their applications using the Gemini API. The API supports generating videos from text prompts or animating images, allowing for automated video content creation within custom platforms.

Here is a simplified Python example to generate a video from a text prompt using the Google Gen AI SDK:


import time
from google import genai
from google.genai import types

client = genai.Client()

operation = client.models.generate_videos(
    model="veo-2.0-generate-001",
    prompt="Panning wide shot of a calico kitten sleeping in the sunshine",
    config=types.GenerateVideosConfig(
        person_generation="allow_adult",
        aspect_ratio="16:9",
    ),
)

while not operation.done:
    time.sleep(20)
    operation = client.operations.get(operation)

for n, generated_video in enumerate(operation.response.generated_videos):
    client.files.download(file=generated_video.video)
    generated_video.video.save(f"video{n}.mp4")

This code requests an 8-second video clip based on the prompt and saves the resulting MP4 file locally. Developers can adjust parameters such as aspect ratio, person generation permissions, and the number of videos generated.

Safety Measures and Usage Policies

Google has implemented multiple safeguards to ensure the responsible use of Veo 2. All generated videos include a SynthID digital watermark embedded in each frame, clearly marking them as AI-generated. Additionally, content moderation and red teaming efforts help prevent the creation of harmful or policy-violating videos.

Users should be aware that video generation is subject to monthly limits, and Gemini will notify users as they approach these thresholds. The feature is available globally in all languages supported by Gemini and requires users to be 18 years or older.

Tips for Maximizing Video Quality

To achieve the best results, refine your prompts iteratively based on the outputs you receive. Avoid vague or generic descriptions and include specific visual details. Use cinematic terminology such as "tracking shot," "close-up," or "soft focus" to influence camera behavior and scene composition.

Experiment with styles and subjects to explore the range of Veo 2's capabilities, from realistic nature scenes to animated characters and abstract concepts. The model understands complex instructions and can simulate real-world physics and human motion for lifelike animations.

Veo 2 in Gemini opens new possibilities for quick, high-quality AI video generation accessible to both casual users and developers. With detailed prompts and the right tools, you can create compelling video content that brings your ideas to life in just moments.