4.6.2 Tips for Creating an Effective Prompt + Examples

For Video Flows using specialized models like Gemini Veo 3, the prompt is the single most critical input. Unlike text generation, video models require a much higher degree of specificity to translate textual concepts into a coherent visual sequence. 

Key Principles for Video Prompt Engineering

To achieve high-quality video assets that align with e-commerce goals, adhere to the following principles:

1. Be Explicitly Specific, Not General: Avoid vague descriptors like "a nice video" or "good quality." The prompt must function as a detailed shot list for the AI.

Ineffective: A nice video of shoes.

Effective: A cinematic video showing the shoes from multiple angles on a person walking smoothly on a cobblestone street, focusing on the leather texture.

2. Incorporate Keywords and Product Characteristics: Ground the video in the product's essential features (color, material, style, unique selling points). The AI should use these as mandatory visual constraints.

Example: A close-up shot of black leather sneakers with a thick white sole. The background is a clean, minimalist studio.

3. Define the Action and Scenario: Clearly suggest the primary motion, scene, or event that the video should depict. This provides the necessary context for the model's simulation.

Example: A slow-motion video where soft sunlight shines on the dress, highlighting its light, flowing fabric as it sways gently in a soft breeze.

4. Specify Audience and Mood/Tone: Provide emotional and demographic context. This ensures the style, pacing, and setting of the video resonate with the target consumer.

Example (Audience): A dynamic video targeted at young women, showcasing the dress being worn confidently at a vibrant outdoor party.
Example (Tone): An elegant and calm video of the wedding dress being prepared in a quiet, luxurious bridal suite.

5. Add Context and Environment: Define the location or setting to establish the necessary atmosphere. This is crucial for grounding the product in a relevant use case.

Example (Dynamic): A fast-paced, dynamic video on a green soccer field for a sports uniform.
Example (Calm): A still and tranquil video in a warm, dimly lit living room, showcasing the texture of the sofa.

Prompt Template Examples for Various Products

Luxury Watch.

Focus: Detailing, Close-ups, Elegance. Recommended Prompt Structure: High-definition, slow-motion video showing the gold watch face and metal strap rotating slowly under a spotlight. Focus on the intricate mechanism. Elegant, luxurious mood.

Outdoor Jacket.

Focus: Functionality, Environment. Recommended Prompt Structure: Dynamic action shot of the waterproof jacket being zipped up by a hiker on a misty mountain trail. The fabric visibly repels raindrops.

Children's Toy.

Focus: Engagement, Movement. Recommended Prompt Structure: A bright, cheerful video of the wooden toy train moving quickly around a track set up on a colorful carpet. Focus on the child's hands interacting with the toy.

Cosmetic Product.

Focus: Texture, Application. Recommended Prompt Structure: An extreme close-up video showing the moisturizing cream being smoothly applied to skin. Highlight the glossy, hydrating texture. Soft, bright studio lighting.

Note: Models like Gemini Veo 3 perform optimally with clear and concise instructions. The higher the precision of your prompt, the higher the likelihood of a high-quality, relevant video output.