1. Define the outcome
Write audience, channel, duration, aspect ratio, subject, action, camera, audio, required details, and prohibited changes.
2. Prepare source truth
Collect approved images, product geometry, logos, scripts, faces, voices, and rights. Mark references that must remain unchanged.
3. Shortlist models
Pick two or three current models based on the shot: native audio, identity, motion control, editing, duration, resolution, or draft speed.
4. Run a low-cost test
Keep prompt and references constant. Start at the lowest useful setting to compare composition and instruction following.
5. Lock the direction
Choose the strongest result, record the model and settings, then refine one variable at a time.
6. Apply specialist tools
Use lip sync, video swap, motion control, extender, long-take, or conversational editing only where the shot needs them.
7. Review frame and sound
Check anatomy, object permanence, identity, product truth, camera intent, flicker, dialogue, ambience, and synchronization.
8. Calculate usable cost
Record credits, retries, usable seconds, editing time, and rights checks. Choose the workflow with the best approved-output economics.