DigitalXLR

Starting Frame vs. Reference Subject Rules

When attached images act as starting/opening frames versus general character or style reference subjects.

~1 min read • Character Consistency & Identity • Updated: 10/10/2026 02:16 PM

How Attached Images Are Processed

Understanding the distinction between a Starting Frame and a Reference Subject ensures your video begins with the exact composition you intend.

1. Reference Subject (Default Behavior)

When you attach 2 or more images, or attach a single image without explicit starting-frame instructions, the system treats all attachments strictly as Reference Subjects.

  • The AI model uses the image to preserve character facial features, hair, clothing, or style.
  • The video does not forcibly start from the exact static pixel layout of the image. The camera is free to begin in motion.

2. Starting Frame (Explicit Request)

An attached image is designated as a Starting Frame only if your prompt explicitly requests it using key phrases:

"Use image 1 as the first frame..."
"Start the video from image 1..."
"Opening frame from image 1, camera zooms out..."

When explicitly requested, the video generation pass locks the first video frame to match the starting composition of the image, then animates motion forward smoothly from that exact opening position.