Vidu

Vidu Reference-to-Image

Vidu Reference-to-Image generates new images from up to 4 reference inputs, preserving subject identity while applying new prompts. Supports 1:1, 16:9, and 9:16 aspect ratios with editing capability.

Vidu Reference-to-Image is a specialized model built for reference-driven creative workflows. Upload up to 4 reference images — the model extracts and preserves the subject's identity, clothing, pose cues, and visual style while generating entirely new compositions based on your text prompt. Unlike general-purpose generators, Vidu is optimized specifically for this reference-to-output pipeline: you always start with an existing image and transform it. The model operates in image-to-image mode by default, supporting editing instructions to modify specific elements while preserving the overall composition. It outputs in three aspect ratios (1:1, 16:9, 9:16), covering square social posts, widescreen content, and vertical stories. It's positioned as a premium reference tool. On Astorie, Vidu Reference-to-Image forms the first stage of a powerful pipeline: generate a reference-consistent still, then animate it with Vidu Q1, Q2, or Q3 video models — the same character identity carries through from still to motion.

Illustrative sample of Vidu Reference-to-Image on the Astorie canvas — the same reference character placed in a brand-new scene while preserving face, outfit, and identity
Illustrative sample — representative output, not a verbatim model render

Capabilities

Text-to-Image
Image-to-Image
Image Editing
Reference Images
Multiple Images
Tagging

Best For

  • Creating variations of a character or product in new scenes and environments
  • Maintaining face and identity consistency across a content series
  • E-commerce product shots — same product, different styling and backgrounds
  • Pre-production stills that feed into Vidu Q1/Q2/Q3 video animation
  • Social media content series with consistent brand characters

Strengths

  • Strong subject identity preservation — faces, clothing, and distinctive features carry over accurately
  • Up to 4 reference images for multi-angle subject understanding
  • Built-in editing mode for refining specific elements without regenerating the whole image
  • Direct pipeline to Vidu video models maintains character identity from still to motion
  • Handles diverse reference quality — works with casual photos, not just studio shots

Limitations

  • Reference-only — no pure text-to-image mode; always requires at least one input image
  • Three aspect ratios (1:1, 16:9, 9:16) — no ultrawide or custom ratios
  • Premium-tier model — for high-volume iteration, draft with a lighter image model first
  • Background control is prompt-based, not selectable — results depend on prompt specificity

Tips & Best Practices

Provide 2-3 reference images from different angles for best identity preservation — frontal, three-quarter, and profile views give the model complete subject understanding.
Be very specific about the new scene in your prompt: "standing in a sunlit Japanese garden with cherry blossoms" works better than "outdoor scene".
Use editing mode for refinements after generation — adjust lighting, change an accessory, or modify the background without regenerating from scratch.
For video production: generate your hero still with Vidu Reference, then feed it into Vidu Q2 or Q3 for animation — the character identity is preserved across the pipeline.
For lighter-weight exploration, draft reference compositions with Kling Omni Image, then use Vidu Reference for the final high-fidelity version.

Use Vidu Reference-to-Image on Astorie

Connect Vidu Reference-to-Image with other AI models on Astorie's infinite canvas. No GPU required — start free.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can Vidu generate images without a reference photo?

No. Vidu Reference-to-Image is specifically designed for reference-based generation. It always requires at least one input image. For text-only image generation, use FLUX, Imagen 4, or Midjourney instead.

How many reference images can Vidu use?

Vidu Reference-to-Image accepts up to 4 reference images. Providing multiple angles of the same subject (frontal, three-quarter, profile) gives the model better understanding for identity preservation.

Can I use Vidu images for video generation?

Yes. Vidu Reference-to-Image pairs directly with Vidu Q1, Q2, and Q3 video models. Generate a reference-consistent still, then feed it into a Vidu video node — the character identity carries through to the animation.

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How-To Guides

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