What is Sora2?

Sora 2 is OpenAI's latest video generation model that represents a significant advancement in AI-powered video creation. It's more physically accurate, realistic, and controllable than previous systems, featuring synchronized dialogue and sound effects that bring your creative visions to life.

This tutorial will walk you through everything you need to know to create your first AI-generated video using Sora2.

Step 1: Getting Access to Sora2

Subscription Requirements

To use Sora2, you'll need one of the following:

  • ChatGPT Plus: Includes access to Sora at no additional cost, allowing you to generate up to 50 videos at 480p resolution or fewer videos at 720p each month
  • ChatGPT Pro: Offers unlimited access to Sora with higher resolution options

Accessing the Platform

You can access Sora2 through two methods:

  1. Web Interface: Visit Sora.com and sign in with your ChatGPT credentials. You'll see a simple, user-friendly dashboard
  2. Mobile App: Download the new Sora iOS app for on-the-go video generation

Step 2: Creating Your First Video

Input Your Prompt

At the bottom of the Sora interface, you'll find an input field where you can describe your video. Here's how to get started:

Pro Tip: Keep your first prompt short and specific. Start with 10-15 seconds of video duration for best results.

You have three options for input:

  1. Text Description: Simply type what you want to see in your video
  2. Image Upload: Click the + icon and upload an image to animate
  3. Video Upload: Upload an existing video to transform or extend

Example First Prompt

A golden retriever puppy playing in a sunny garden, soft morning light, gentle breeze moving the flowers

Generation Process

After submitting your prompt:

  • The generation process typically takes up to one minute
  • Sora will create multiple variations for you to choose from
  • You can watch the progress in real-time

Step 3: Review and Refine Your Video

Viewing Your Results

Once generation is complete:

  1. Hover over the preview in your library to watch all variations play back
  2. Compare different versions side by side
  3. Click on any individual video to view it in a larger format

Editing Options

Sora2 provides several editing tools to refine your video:

  • Re-cut: Trim and extend your video in a new storyboard
  • Remix: Describe changes and create new variations based on your generation
  • Blend: Transition elements from one video to another
  • Loop: Create a seamless loop from any part of the video

Step 4: Using the Storyboard Tool

The Sora storyboard is a powerful feature for creating multi-scene videos:

How to Access

Click on the "Storyboard" option in the input section at the bottom of the page.

Creating Your Storyboard

  1. Select individual frames by timestamp that you want generated in your video
  2. Drag cards in the timeline to set the pace of your story
  3. Leave space between cards to give time to connect scenes smoothly
Important: Less space between cards increases the likelihood of hard cuts in your video. Plan your timing carefully for smooth transitions.

Tips for Beginners

Best Practices

  • Start Simple: Begin with straightforward prompts and short durations (10-15 seconds)
  • Be Specific: Include details about lighting, camera angle, and mood
  • Iterate: Don't expect perfection on the first try. Use variations and remixes
  • Use Templates: Paste your prompt using proven templates from the community

What to Avoid

  • Avoid real-person likeness without permission
  • Don't start with complex multi-scene videos
  • Avoid overly long prompts (keep under 400 characters initially)
  • Steer clear of sensitive topics

Understanding Sora2's Limitations

While Sora2 is powerful, it's important to understand its current limitations:

  • Physics: The model can sometimes generate unrealistic physics
  • Complex Actions: It may struggle with complex actions over long durations
  • Fine Details: Small details like fingers or text may not always be perfect
  • Consistency: Maintaining exact consistency across long videos can be challenging
Remember: These limitations are actively being improved. Focus on what works well - short scenes, clear subjects, and well-defined actions.

Next Steps

Now that you've created your first Sora2 video, here's what to explore next:

  1. Experiment with different prompt styles and lengths
  2. Try the image-to-video feature with your own photos
  3. Explore the storyboard tool for multi-scene videos
  4. Learn advanced prompt engineering techniques
  5. Master motion control for better camera movements

Conclusion

Congratulations! You've learned the basics of Sora2 and created your first AI-generated video. The key to mastering Sora2 is practice and experimentation. Don't be afraid to try different approaches, and remember that even experienced users iterate multiple times to get the perfect result.

Keep exploring, stay creative, and enjoy the journey of AI video creation!