Which Pika H3 Flex Mode Should You Use? Text, Image, Reference or Draft

The first decision in the studio is not resolution. It is what you already have. A story idea, an approved still image, a set of character references and a nearly finished video are different starting points. Matching the input to the task helps avoid using a capable model through an unsuitable workflow.

Start with text when you have an idea

Text to Video builds a scene from written direction. Describe the subject, location, action, camera and sound. A dog beside a birthday cake in a retro living room, followed by someone discovering the surprise, gives you something concrete to evaluate. “A funny cinematic masterpiece” leaves most of the story undecided.

Use an image when the composition is established

The Image to Video documentation supports a first frame, a last frame or both. This suits an existing product still, portrait or illustration. Focus the prompt on how the image changes. Avoid contradicting the clothes, room or lighting that the supplied frame already defines.

Bring coordinated material into reference mode

Reference to Video can combine image, video and audio references. Give each input a job: an image defines the character, a video supplies movement, and audio helps communicate a sound direction. The official requirements include at least one image or video; audio-only reference requests are not supported. Adding more material is not automatically a way to gain more control.

Upgrade a take you already like

Draft to Video improves the output resolution of an existing low-resolution clip while keeping its take and audio. It is not a request to invent a new story. In this studio, select one of your account’s completed 480p or 768p drafts and choose 1080p, 2K or 4K finishing.

Ask what must remain unchanged

If the composition is essential, start with an image. If the relationship between a character and an action matters most, consider references. If the complete performance already works, upgrade that draft. When no image must be preserved, text is a useful place to explore. These are production choices, not a ranking of output quality.

Add constraints gradually

Complete one usable shot before introducing more requirements. Hold the prompt and duration steady while comparing input approaches. Check that you have permission to use the material, that the aspect ratio fits the intended screen, and that the displayed credit cost is acceptable before submitting.

It can help to list which materials are only inspiration, which details must be preserved and which elements belong in post-production. The list does not have to be uploaded. Its first purpose is to help you decide what each input contributes. A clear mode choice makes later feedback more specific and retries less arbitrary.

Watch the related sample

Geometric motion graphics

Open the studio and try your own scene