# Using Generative AI
In some previous articles, we have shown how to use AI to accomplish research and analysis-style tasks. This is a hugely helpful style of AI technology, but there is another, more immediately impressive (and somewhat terrifying) form of AI as well.
Where all of the other AI tools we have discussed are free for teachers, today’s topic will cover the use of Sora, a paid update to ChatGPT.
Generative AI is the term for Artificial intelligence that creates or generates content. This is so incredibly powerful… The purest form of use allows someone with creativity to realize their vision… Maybe you have someone who can’t draw a straight line, but they can write the most descriptive and captivating world-building text. Generative AI can take this text and (sometimes with a little pushing) turn it into something anyone can see. This isn’t unique to visual generation. AI has become more popular in music generation as well. Today, though, I’m going to focus on the visual elements of Gen AI.
I have two scenarios for you today. The first is how I actually used Sora in a project I’m working on, and the second is a more practical example.
My Actual Usage
**The project:** Create a sample player introduction video for athletics broadcasting as an example for coaches, administration, and AV students.
**The process:** Use Adobe After Effects to create templates for AV kids. Include player names, numbers, height, weight, grade, and position. Provide sample players with live motion overlayed on top of the template.
**The problem:** I don’t have access to any video content that would work in this situation. To be able to use a person in front of a background that doesn’t exist in the original video, you have to record the video in front of a green screen, or you have to use a process called rotoscoping (you literally trace the person in every frame of the video. At 30 frames per second, each player is 10 seconds, which means every player will have to be traced 300 times… way too much work for a demo). You also need video taken from a close vantage point or from a high-quality camera with very good zoom/lenses. This just wasn’t available to me. I COULD schedule time with a couple of students, set up all of the equipment, then do the demo shoot, and, a few years ago, that was the process, but I chose another way…
**Enter AI:** I pay for the upgraded version of ChatGPT. I use it A LOT for a large variety of projects that involve coding, and Gemini just isn’t as good at that. Anyway, as part of that upgrade, I get access to Sora, which creates video clips based on storyboards, text prompts, or even other media. I went the text route…
Remember… I said that these videos need to be taken in front of a green screen. So, as part of my prompt, I made sure to include that instruction. Here is what I provided Sora to get started:
> A baseball player in front of a green screen
Please don’t be overwhelmed by the complexity of the prompt…
For my efforts, I received two, very reasonable videos. The GIF versions are below:
As you can probably tell, there are issues… The bat in that first one jumps from one hand to the other, and the other dude is just boring… I was, however, feeling emboldened by such a decent result with so little effort, so I tried a little harder with my next prompt:
> A baseball player wearing a black jersey with old gold accent colors including the letters WF. He is standing in front of a green screen.
Ignore the fact that I said old gold… I forgot it was called Vegas gold until I finished the project…
For this exercise in clarity, Sora rewarded me with these two clips:
Ok… Now we are getting somewhere… Still, we have issues. First, these guys are clearly too old. Second, I can’t see faces, and that matters in a player highlight video. Third, The second guy put a double visor on his hat, which is super smooth, but weird…
We are good though… I’m feeling excited, so I further modify my prompt to this:
> A baseball player wearing a black jersey with old gold accent colors including the letters WF. He is standing in front of a green screen. He has a baseball in his right hand, and he has a baseball glove on his left hand. He is a high school student. Focus on the face and his look of intense determination.
I hit the button to generate the video, and just knew… this is it… THIS is the prompt that will give me the PERFECT video. Then Sora gave me this:
I was *underwhelmed*. It seems to have gotten confused and thought I meant to CUT OFF HIS FACE!
But then I saw the second video:
And, dear reader, I was stoked. True, it wasn’t 100% what I asked for. It looks like he thinks he is holding a ball, but it isn’t there, and the green screen is JUST big enough to cover him, but I figured this was a great starting point to bring in the next tool…
**Remix**
Sora has a remix button. Basically you tell it to use a previous render as the jumping off point for any corrections. Now, instead of trying to craft a prompt, I just give it a set of tweaks. Here is my new set of instructions:
> He should be wearing a baseball hat, and he should have a baseball in his right hand.
Sora responded with these:
Ok… Getting somewhere. I still can’t seem to get a ball in the kid’s hand, and the second dude is either left-handed, or his glove had fused upside down to his flesh… Either way, that isn’t great. I like the first one, and I’m willing to use for the demo, even without the ball.
Next, I need to highlight multiple players, so I need a remix that will result in a totally different person, and ideally a different action. I went with this:
> Please keep the overall composition, but remove the ball and glove, and instead give the player a bat. Also give him a darker skin tone.
*Critical advice* - always say please to the robots.
Sora responded with:
And I was like “Yessss this isss… Whaaaat???” We were doing SO well until that second bat came out of **nowhere**.
But that’s ok, because Sora also gave me this one:
And while it also has some weird hand issues, it is perfectly serviceable for this task!
The template I had made needed three players, so when I had originally said “darker skin tone,” I wasn’t actually thinking a different race, I thought it did a great job, so I leaned into it for my third option:
> Please change the nationality to be Asian.
And again, Sora toyed with me. The first clip is smoother, and I like the movement more, but bruh… what is the deal with the levitating bat? I did think the second option was good, and it was about this time I remembered that I have a limit of credits each month, so I took the second video.
**Next Steps:** Once I had the videos, I went through the process of isolating the players, and I put them into the highlight template. I’ll skip all of that because it has nothing to do with the AI part of this video, but feel free to ask questions!
Once I was finished, I got this video
[https://youtu.be/AMtg4d1GsDY](https://youtu.be/AMtg4d1GsDY)
Is this perfect? Nope. Not even close, but I think it is easy to argue that it is much more elar about what the goal is than me trying to communicate it verbally, or defaulting to one of those “picture unavailable” sort of things. AI allowed me to give a (nearly) finished-looking result, and, honestly, I think it did a pretty great job.
Now, there are obvious negative implications to this technology, but that is true with ALL technology, and pretty much ALL inventions/discoveries. I think we have to be willing to learn and use things for good, and this is just one example of how I’ve tried to do it.
An interesting use-case
For this one, I’ll keep it much shorter. I wanted to see what the cast of Harry Potter would look like if it were created/casted by AI. The annoying part of this is that you have to collect all of the character descriptions from the book, and because of how AI work, you have to remove names and specific identifiers so that existing content for that character isn’t the inspiration. Luckily, ChatGPT (and Gemini) can do that with a simple prompt:
> I need the physical aspects as well as the character traits of Hermione Granger from the Harry Potter books. Please just provide the physical appearance and personality trait specific details, and remove all elements that would indicate that the character is Hermione, as if the intent was to make the reader guess who this character is… Similar to the first time we are introduced to her.
I was provided with this
read description
A young individual with **thick, bushy brown hair** that seems to have a mind of its own, often falling in wild waves around their face. Their **eyes are a deep brown**, filled with intensity and a sharp, observant nature. Their **complexion is light**, and their expression is frequently animated, especially when engaged in conversation or deep thought.
They are of **average height**, though they often carry themselves with a certain confidence that makes them seem taller. One of their most distinctive physical traits is their **large front teeth**, which add to their expressive appearance. Always seen with a **book in hand**, they seem prepared for any situation, radiating a sense of readiness and purpose.
This individual is **exceptionally intelligent and studious**, always seeking to expand their knowledge. They possess an **unwavering work ethic**, often preparing far ahead of time and double-checking their own work for perfection. Highly **logical and practical**, they tend to analyze situations methodically, yet their **quick thinking** allows them to adapt under pressure.
Despite their academic focus, they are also **deeply loyal** and **incredibly brave**, unafraid to stand up for what is right, even when it places them at odds with others. Their **sense of justice is strong**, and they are passionate about advocating for those who may be overlooked or mistreated. However, their **strong opinions and confidence in their knowledge can sometimes come across as bossy or overbearing**, especially when they insist on being correct.
Though not necessarily drawn to confrontation, they do not hesitate to **correct misinformation** or **challenge authority when necessary**. They have a tendency to **overthink and worry**, especially when the outcome of a situation is uncertain, but their resourcefulness and determination ensure they rarely falter for long. Beneath their structured and intellectual demeanor, there is a deep sense of **compassion and warmth**, especially for those they care about.
I did the same thing for Harry, Ron, Dumbledore, and Volde…
read descriptions
Please perform the same exercise for Harry Potter. It is ok to keep gender.
###### [](https://hub.wftigers.org/t/using-generative-ai/710#p-1243-chatgpt-said-2)ChatGPT said:
### [](https://hub.wftigers.org/t/using-generative-ai/710#p-1243-character-description-3)**Character Description**
A **slightly thin, wiry boy** with a **messy mop of jet-black hair** that never seems to stay in place, no matter how often it is brushed. His **eyes are a striking shade of green**, often described as intense and piercing, though they hold a quiet depth beyond his years. A pair of **round glasses** sit on his nose, often slightly askew from being knocked around. His **skin is fair**, though he has a somewhat **sallow, underfed look**, as if he has gone without proper meals for long stretches of time.
One of his most **defining physical features is a lightning-shaped scar** on his forehead, a mark from a past that follows him wherever he goes. Though the scar is small, it carries an air of mystery, often tingling or burning at the most unexpected moments.
He is **quietly observant**, often processing everything around him before speaking. Though not the loudest voice in the room, there is a natural **sense of leadership** in the way he carries himself—unwillingly at times, yet undeniably present. He has an **innate sense of courage**, often acting on instinct rather than careful planning, throwing himself into danger if it means protecting those he cares about.
Despite his reputation, he is deeply **humble and self-conscious**, never fully comfortable with the attention he receives. He dislikes being placed on a pedestal and often **feels like an outsider**, struggling with the weight of expectations placed upon him. He is fiercely **loyal and protective**, willing to stand up for friends, even against overwhelming odds. His **sense of justice is strong**, and he cannot tolerate bullying or unfairness, even when it would be easier to stay quiet.
Though he has a **strong moral compass**, he is not without flaws. He can be **impulsive**, letting his emotions drive him into reckless decisions. His **stubborn streak** often leads him to take on burdens alone, unwilling to ask for help even when he needs it. Beneath his bravery and resilience, there is a deep **longing for belonging and connection**, making the bonds he forms all the more precious.
4o
##### [](https://hub.wftigers.org/t/using-generative-ai/710#p-1243-you-said-4)You said:
The same for Ron Weasley, please.
###### [](https://hub.wftigers.org/t/using-generative-ai/710#p-1243-chatgpt-said-5)ChatGPT said:
### [](https://hub.wftigers.org/t/using-generative-ai/710#p-1243-character-description-6)**Character Description**
A **tall and lanky boy** with a **slightly gangly frame**, often seeming as though he hasn’t quite grown into his own limbs. His **hair is a vivid shade of red**, somewhat untidy and falling across his forehead in a way that seems to match his relaxed, casual demeanor. His **eyes are a light blue**, frequently alight with humor or frustration, depending on the situation. His **skin is fair and freckled**, a trait shared by many in his large family.
Though he has a strong presence, he often carries himself with a certain **slouch**, as if trying not to take up too much space. His **hands and feet are slightly oversized**, a sign of a boy still growing into his full height. He has a distinct **ear-to-ear grin** when he’s amused, but just as easily wears an expression of frustration or exasperation when things don’t go his way.
A **natural comedian**, he has a sharp wit and a talent for sarcasm, often using humor to diffuse tension or hide his own insecurities. Though he **exudes confidence in casual settings**, he sometimes struggles with feelings of **inferiority**, particularly when compared to those closest to him. He has **a deep yearning to prove himself**, whether through skill, bravery, or recognition.
Despite these insecurities, he is **fiercely loyal**, standing by his friends through thick and thin—even when jealousy or frustration momentarily gets the better of him. He has a **brave heart**, though his courage is sometimes tested by fear or doubt, making his victories over them all the more meaningful. He is also **quick-tempered**, prone to reacting emotionally before thinking things through, but his heart is always in the right place.
A **strategic thinker**, he has a surprising knack for tactical games, displaying an **instinctive ability to anticipate moves and patterns**—a skill that serves him well in games and real-life situations alike. While he may not always recognize his own worth, his unwavering **loyalty, humor, and courage** make him an invaluable companion, even when he doubts it himself.
4o
##### [](https://hub.wftigers.org/t/using-generative-ai/710#p-1243-you-said-7)You said:
The same for Albus Dumbledore, please.
###### [](https://hub.wftigers.org/t/using-generative-ai/710#p-1243-chatgpt-said-8)ChatGPT said:
### [](https://hub.wftigers.org/t/using-generative-ai/710#p-1243-character-description-9)**Character Description**
A **tall and slender man**, with a **long, flowing silver beard** that cascades down to his chest. His **hair, equally silver**, is kept long, tucked neatly behind his ears, giving him the appearance of someone who has lived through many years of wisdom and experience. His **eyes, a striking shade of blue**, twinkle with amusement and deep intelligence, often conveying more than his words. They are sharp, constantly assessing and understanding far beyond what is spoken.
He wears **half-moon spectacles** perched delicately on the bridge of his nose, adding to his scholarly appearance. His **face is lined with age**, but rather than appearing tired or worn, it radiates **kindness, patience, and an ever-present sense of curiosity**. His posture is **relaxed yet commanding**, exuding a sense of quiet authority without the need for force.
Possessing a **calm and collected demeanor**, he often speaks in **riddles and whimsical phrases**, leaving those around him to puzzle out deeper meanings. He is **profoundly intelligent and highly strategic**, always several steps ahead in any situation. His **wisdom is vast**, not just in knowledge but in understanding people, their motivations, and the balance of power between good and evil.
He carries himself with **gentleness and humor**, often using lightheartedness to put others at ease. Despite his **warm and grandfatherly presence**, there is an undeniable **depth and sadness** beneath his kind exterior—an unspoken weight of past regrets and difficult choices. Though he preaches love and understanding, he is not without flaws, sometimes **withholding vital information** to protect others, believing that knowledge can be as dangerous as it is powerful.
A true **believer in the power of love, kindness, and second chances**, he has an unshakable faith in people’s ability to change for the better. However, he is also a **master manipulator when necessary**, steering events with a careful hand, often working in the shadows to ensure the best possible outcome. His **compassion, intelligence, and quiet strength** make him a guiding force, yet his past remains a reminder that even the greatest minds are not without their burdens.
4o
##### [](https://hub.wftigers.org/t/using-generative-ai/710#p-1243-you-said-10)You said:
And for Lord Voldemort, please.
###### [](https://hub.wftigers.org/t/using-generative-ai/710#p-1243-chatgpt-said-11)ChatGPT said:
### [](https://hub.wftigers.org/t/using-generative-ai/710#p-1243-character-description-12)**Character Description**
A **tall and unnervingly thin man**, with **skin as pale as bone**, almost translucent in certain lights. His **features are gaunt and angular**, giving him a **serpentine appearance**, further emphasized by the absence of a **human nose—replaced instead by two thin slits, like a snake’s nostrils**. His **eyes are a piercing, blood-red shade**, with **narrow, slit-like pupils**, making his gaze both hypnotic and terrifying.
His **head is completely bald**, devoid of any hair, adding to his unnatural and almost spectral presence. His **fingers are long and spindly**, his **movements eerily smooth**, almost gliding rather than walking. His **lips are thin and colorless**, often twisted into a cruel smile or a sneer of disdain. The very air around him seems colder in his presence, as though his mere existence drains warmth and life from his surroundings.
His **voice is high and chillingly smooth**, carrying a cold, commanding authority that demands immediate obedience. When he speaks, there is an unmistakable **tone of superiority**, as though every word is spoken from the mouth of someone who believes themselves to be far above those around them.
An embodiment of **intelligence and ambition**, he is **ruthlessly cunning and dangerously strategic**, always calculating his next move with **cold precision**. He possesses an **unshakable belief in his own superiority**, dismissing all who oppose him as weak, foolish, or beneath his notice. His **hunger for power is insatiable**, and he will go to any lengths—no matter how dark or twisted—to achieve **absolute control over life and death**.
Completely **devoid of compassion, empathy, or remorse**, he views emotions as weaknesses, particularly love, which he **despises and fears in equal measure**. His **lack of humanity is not just psychological but also physical**, as his relentless pursuit of immortality has warped his body into something barely recognizable as human.
Though he is highly intelligent, his **arrogance often blinds him**, leading him to underestimate those who do not fit his definition of power. His **rage is cold and terrifying**, rarely expressed in wild outbursts but instead in **calculated, merciless acts of violence**, often delivered with a quiet, almost casual cruelty.
Despite his outward control, **fear is his greatest motivator**—the fear of death, of insignificance, of losing control. It is this fear that drives his every action, compelling him to **cling to life at any cost, no matter how monstrous he must become to do so**.
Cool! So now that I have that, I can tell Sora what to do. All I did was paste the descriptions in, as they were given (except for Ron. I’ll show you the first one and the remix). I did have to change “individual” to “girl” in Hermionie’s description.
Here is the cast, as set by Sora
#### [](https://hub.wftigers.org/t/using-generative-ai/710#p-1243-hermione-grainger-13)Hermione Grainger
#### [](https://hub.wftigers.org/t/using-generative-ai/710#p-1243-harry-potter-featuring-a-second-scar-14)Harry Potter (Featuring a SECOND scar)
#### [](https://hub.wftigers.org/t/using-generative-ai/710#p-1243-ron-weasley-remix-this-should-be-as-phot-realistic-as-possible-still-scary-16)Ron Weasley (remix: “This should be as phot-realistic as possible” Still scary…
#### [](https://hub.wftigers.org/t/using-generative-ai/710#p-1243-lord-voldemort-not-as-scary-as-ron-1-18)Lord Voldemort (not as scary as Ron 1)