Using Characters in Shot Prompts

Character consistency depends on prompt wording and on the visual references prepared for the character.

Prepare the character first

Before generating important shots, open the character in Entity Builder and make sure the setup is useful:

• the name is correct
• the description and outfit are specific
• the selected image represents the character well
• the image portfolio contains enough useful references

Create Image and the Image editor both help build this portfolio before you rely on the character in shot generation.

Use the same character name consistently

The simplest rule is also one of the most important: use the same character name every time.

If you switch between different names, nicknames, or descriptions for the same person, the results are more likely to drift.

Use character selection tools when available

In prompt editors that support character chips or quick insert tools, use them when possible.

This reduces spelling mistakes and helps keep character references consistent across shots.

Use portfolio images as references

When a shot needs better visual consistency, drag images from the character portfolio into Create View reference slots and insert / chips. This is especially helpful for:

• close-ups where identity matters
• wide shots where the character could drift
• group shots with multiple characters
• shots needing a specific pose, angle, outfit, or expression

The selected image is the main visual anchor, but alternate portfolio images can still be useful references.

For multi-character shots, describe placement clearly

When more than one character appears in the same shot, describe their relationship in the frame.

Examples:

• "ELENA on the left, MARCUS on the right"
• "ELENA in the foreground, MARCUS blurred in the background"

This makes the prompt easier for the model to interpret visually.

Keep the prompt visually focused

Character prompts usually work best when they stay clear and direct.

Focus on:

• who is in the shot
• where they are positioned
• what they are doing
• what matters most visually

Leave the drawing medium to Art direction. Repeating “anime watercolor cinematic” in the shot prompt fights the look you already chose.

Extra consistency tips

• do not alternate between multiple names for the same character
• keep action descriptions simple and readable
• use reference images when available, especially for difficult wide shots or group scenes
• improve the entity image portfolio when repeated shot generation keeps drifting

Practical takeaway

If a character looks inconsistent from shot to shot, check the prompt, the portfolio, and whether a reference is actually in a slot. Clear naming, filled slots, and strong prepared pictures improve consistency faster than regenerating again and again. See Reference-based generation.