Transform your image into a video
Use Image to Video to bring static images to life with subtle, AI-generated motion. Turn any photo or still graphic into a short, animated video clip, ideal for social posts, presentations, and product visuals.
Learn more about how this feature counts toward your AI usage.
For best results:
- Image should have:
- a minimum size of 256 × 224 pixels (57,344 total pixels).
- an aspect ratio of up to 5:1 (horizontal or vertical).
- Use uploaded images or choose content from Canva’s free media library.
- Avoid using images with transparent backgrounds.
Transform an image into a short video using AI
- Open your design in the Canva editor.
- Select the image you'd like to turn into a video.
- In the toolbar, select Edit.
- Under Tools, select Image to Video.
- Choose between Smart or Custom mode:
- Smart applies default motion automatically.
- Custom allows you to describe the type of motion you want (e.g., “make the image dance”).
- Select Generate 5 second video to continue. Your generated video will automatically be added to the editor.
- Select Generate again to try a different result.
Note: Your final video maintains the original layout and aspect ratio of your image.
To learn more about other ways to transform your images, check out Edit photos with Canva photo editor.
Image to Video limitations
- Only supports 5-second video clips.
- Doesn't support premium media (e.g., stock photos).
- Doesn’t fully support face animation. For images with faces, facial motion may not render as expected.
- Images with transparent backgrounds aren’t supported.
- Some Image to Video generations may currently produce shorter 3-second clips instead of the usual length.
- Not available in China.
- Disabled by default for Canva Education student users. School administrators can manually enable the feature through admin settings.
FAQs
Is this the same as Magic Media’s video feature?
No. Magic Media generates videos from text prompts. Image to Video animates existing images with subtle motion.
Does this feature work on all types of images?
Not all image types are supported. Image to Video doesn’t support premium media.
We’re working to support more image types, including premium images, in future updates.
Can I use Image to Video on the Free plan?
Yes. If you're on the Free plan, you can use Image to Video as long as you still have monthly AI allowance available.
If you’ve reached your monthly usage limit, access will reset automatically next month, or you can upgrade for more AI access.
Can I change the video length?
Generated videos are fixed at 5 seconds. You can easily combine multiple clips or extend your design in the Canva Editor. Learn how to create and edit videos.
Does it crop my image?
The video maintains your image’s original aspect ratio.
Can I add audio to my generated video?
Generated videos don't include audio. After adding the video to your design, you can add music or sound effects from Canva's audio library or upload your own audio file. Learn how to add audio tracks and sound effects.
Why can't I access Image to Video on my school account?
If you're using a Canva Education student account, Image to Video may be turned off by your school by default. Your school administrator can enable access through admin settings.
Note: For admins, refer to this Help Centre article to manage your team’s permissions.
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