> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://loova.gitbook.io/infinite-canvas/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://loova.gitbook.io/infinite-canvas/getting-started/create-your-first-ai-video-project.md).
# Create Your First AI Video Project
There is no single correct way to create on Infinite Canvas. You can begin with an idea, a visual reference, existing footage, or a project made by another creator. Use the canvas to explore, connect what is useful, and keep the directions you want to develop.
{% hint style="info" %}
Treat this page as a flexible starting pattern, not a required sequence. Skip, repeat, or reorder any part to suit the project.
{% endhint %}
## Start anywhere
Choose the starting material you already have:
* **An idea or rough notes** — add a Text node and develop them on the canvas.
* **An image or visual direction** — upload it or begin with an Image node.
* **Existing footage** — upload it to a Video node and use a supported reference, edit, or extend mode.
* **A process you want to learn from** — open a work in **Now Playing on Loova**, inspect its process, or duplicate the project.
You can also select **New Project** and begin with an empty canvas. See Start a Project for the available starting options.
## Build the context your project needs
Some projects benefit from a clear shot plan and reusable assets. Others take shape through visual experiments. Add only the context that helps the next generation.
### Use Text nodes when language helps
A Text node can hold a concept, scene description, shot list, motion prompt, creative note, or LLM-generated variation. It can be a starting point, a reference for another node, or simply a place to think.
### Use Image nodes when visual consistency matters
Image nodes can establish characters, locations, props, lighting, style, or a specific composition. Reuse references across several generations when continuity matters, or create new directions side by side when you want variety.
You do not need to prepare every asset before generating video. Start with the references that matter most, then add or replace them as the project develops.
## Generate, compare, and branch
Add a Video node whenever you are ready to explore motion.
1. Connect the Text, Image, or Video nodes that are useful for this generation.
2. Choose a model and one of the modes it currently supports.
3. Describe the motion, camera behavior, pacing, or change you want to see.
4. Generate, review, and adjust.
Different shots can use different approaches. You might generate directly from references, animate a First Frame, move between First and Last Frames, edit existing footage, or extend a clip. Model availability and controls determine which paths are available.
{% hint style="info" %}
A storyboard or keyframe is optional. Use one when it helps you control composition or transitions; skip it when direct exploration is more useful.
{% endhint %}
Keep promising alternatives on the canvas. A result that does not fit the current direction may still become a useful branch, reference, or later shot.
## Organize and export what works
As the project develops, arrange related nodes in a way that makes sense to you. Groups can hold a scene, a reference library, an experiment, or an approved selection.
When you want to keep a result:
* Download an individual Image or Video node.
* Group related results and download the group together.
* Reuse an earlier generation from **Generation History**.