20 Camera Movements You Should Try with AI Video Generators
When I started using AI video generators, I had no idea how much the right camera movement could transform a simple scene.
The truth is, most people focus only on perfecting their prompts for the right visuals. But it’s the camera movement that adds that professional touch – the difference between a static image and a story that pulls viewers in.
I’ve put together this guide based on my own trials, errors, and successes. These 20 camera movements have consistently given me good results across different AI platforms. For each movement, I’ll share example prompts too.
Basic Camera Movements
1. Dolly In (Push In)
I’ve found that dolly-in shots create instant tension and focus. The key is to pick a subject that becomes more interesting as you get closer. In my tests, this worked perfectly with detailed objects or expressive faces.
Example Prompt:
“A dolly-in shot of a scientist peering into a glowing test tube, the background gradually blurring to emphasize their focused expression and the mysterious light.”
This prompt worked because it clearly states both the movement and what should grab attention as the camera moves in.
2. Dolly Out (Pull Out)
This is great for reveal shots. I start with something small and specific, then pull back to show something unexpected. The contrast between what you first see and what’s revealed makes these shots powerful.
Example Prompt:
“A dolly-out shot starting with a close-up of a candle flame and slowly revealing an expansive medieval banquet hall lit with hundreds of candles.”
3. Pan (Horizontal Movement)
Pans work best when you’re showing a connection between different elements in a scene. They’re perfect for revealing environments gradually.
Example Prompt:
“A pan shot capturing a vibrant street market, moving from a stall selling colorful spices”
4. Tilt (Vertical Movement)
I use tilts when I want to emphasize height or depth. They’re particularly effective with tall structures or to show dramatic scale differences.
Example Prompt:
“A tilt shot starting at the base of a towering skyscraper and gradually moving up to show its peak disappearing into the clouds.”
5. Zoom In
Zooms are different from dolly shots because they affect perspective differently. I use these when I want to direct attention quickly to something specific.
Example Prompt:
“A zoom-in shot of a mysterious figure standing in a dense fog, their silhouette becoming clearer as the camera zooms closer.”
6. Zoom Out
This works great for context reveals. Start with a detail, then show how it fits into a bigger picture.
Example Prompt:
“A zoom-out shot starting with a close-up of a flower petal covered in dewdrops, slowly revealing a vast meadow at sunrise.”
Intermediate Camera Movements
7. Tracking Shot (Follow Shot)
This is one of my favorite techniques for action sequences. The trick is to keep your subject moving at a consistent speed – I’ve noticed AI generators handle this better than erratic movements.
Example Prompt:
“A tracking shot following a cyclist speeding down a mountain trail, with dust flying and trees rushing past in the background.”
8. Crane Shot
These shots add a cinematic quality that’s hard to beat. I’ve had the best results when I give clear start and end points in my prompts.
Example Prompt:
“A crane shot starting at ground level, showing a garden party, and lifting upward to reveal the entire mansion and surrounding landscape.”
9. Arc Shot
Arc shots are perfect for showing off 3D space. I’ve found they work particularly well with stationary subjects that have interesting details on all sides.
Example Prompt:
“An arc shot circling a knight standing in a battlefield, their armor glinting in the sunlight, as the camera reveals the chaos surrounding them.”
10. Handheld Movement
Want to add realism? Handheld movements do the trick. The key is subtle shakiness – too much makes the AI output unstable.
Example Prompt:
“A handheld shot of a hiker climbing a rocky cliff, with the camera moving slightly to reflect the tension and realism of the scene.”
11. Pedestal Movement
This is like a crane shot but more controlled. I use it when I want to maintain the same distance from my subject while moving up or down.
Example Prompt:
“A pedestal shot slowly moving down to reveal an artist’s easel, with a vibrant painting of a serene landscape in progress.”
12. Orbit Shot
Similar to arc shots, but usually complete 360-degree movements. They’re great for product-style videos or showing off detailed objects.
Example Prompt:
“An orbit shot around a classical statue in a dimly lit museum, capturing its intricate details from every angle.”
13. Rack Focus
This one’s tricky with AI, but when it works, it’s magical. The secret is having clear foreground and background elements.
Example Prompt:
“A rack focus shot starting with a butterfly perched on a flower in focus, then shifting to reveal a child watching it in the blurred background.”
Advanced Camera Movements
14. Whip Pan
These quick movements can be challenging for AI, but when they work, they’re fantastic. The trick is to have clear start and end points with strong visual elements.
Example Prompt:
“A whip pan moving quickly from a city skyline at dusk to a couple enjoying a rooftop dinner, candles flickering in the breeze.”
15. Steadicam Movement
This gives you that smooth, floating feel. I’ve found it works best with continuous motion through interesting spaces.
Example Prompt:
“A steadicam shot gliding through a lush forest, following a fox as it weaves between trees and leaps over logs.”
16. Reverse Dolly (Dolly Zoom)
This creates that famous vertigo effect. It’s advanced, but when it works, it’s mind-blowing. The key is having a strong foreground subject.
Example Prompt:
“A reverse dolly shot of a person standing on a cliff’s edge, the background expanding dramatically as the camera moves away.”
17. Parallax Movement
This adds depth to your scenes. I focus on having distinct layers in my scene descriptions.
Example Prompt:
“A parallax shot moving through a dense forest, with the foreground branches swaying while the misty trees in the background move slower.”
18. Push and Pull
This combines different movements for dramatic effect. It needs careful prompt writing to work well.
Example Prompt:
“A push-pull shot on a frightened character in a haunted house, with the walls appearing to close in as the camera zooms.”
19. Aerial Movement
These shots give you that drone-like feel. They work best with large-scale scenes and clear directional movement.
Example Prompt:
“An aerial shot soaring over a vast canyon, the camera tilting down to reveal a river winding through the rocky terrain.”
20. Lateral Movement
This is great for showing action while keeping your subject in frame. It needs a clear movement direction.
Example Prompt:
“A lateral shot tracking a surfer riding a wave, capturing the dynamic motion of the water and the surfer’s balance.”
It’s amazing how the right camera movement can take your AI-generated videos to the next level. After testing these 20 movements across different platforms, one thing is clear: you don’t need complex technical skills to create engaging videos with AI.
The best results come from being clear and specific in your prompts. Start with basic movements like dollies and pans. Once you’re comfortable, try more complex ones like reverse dollies and parallax shots.
Each AI platform has its own strengths. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works for your specific needs.
Give these camera movements a try, adapt the prompts to your style, and see how they transform your AI videos. Keep it simple, be patient with the process, and most importantly, have fun creating.
