How to Upload Reference Images in Google Flow (Ingredients & Frames)

Use Ingredients when an image is a reference for a character, object, product, or style that should appear in the clip. Use Frames when the video should begin from a specific image or transition from a start image to an end image.

Support for ingredients, first and last frames, and clip durations varies by model. Check the active model in Flow before preparing an entire production around one input type.

On desktop, open a project and choose Video, then Ingredients or Frames. Drag a reference image from your device into Flow, click Add Image to upload or select an asset, or type @ in the prompt to find a named asset already in the project.

For a start frame, drag the image into Add start frame. If the selected model supports an end frame, add it under Add end frame and describe the action or transition that should happen between them.

Use a sharp image at the intended aspect ratio with the important details clearly visible. Google recommends subject or product references on a plain or segmented background; location and style references should not contain unintended extra subjects.

For a consistent character, prepare a clear portrait and a full-body reference with the same wardrobe and neutral lighting. Avoid mixing references that conflict in hair, color, design, or viewpoint.

Do not upload images and leave their roles ambiguous. State that @Character is the main subject whose face and wardrobe must remain consistent, @Product is the object being held, and @Location provides the setting; then describe one action and camera move.

For Frames, focus the prompt on motion between the two states instead of repeating every visible detail. Similar aspect ratio, subject position, and camera angle generally make a transition easier to control.

Run one test for each input pattern and inspect identity, product color, framing, and motion. Give assets searchable names, verify every image-prompt pairing, and retain source files outside the project.

With VeoBulk, attach references to a small prompt group first. Scale only after the test succeeds, and retry individual failed jobs instead of resubmitting the entire queue.