How to Make a Tiny Desk AI Video from One Photo

To make a Tiny Desk AI video, start with one clear portrait, confirm you have permission to use it, and submit it to a configured generator. When the task is ready, preview the silent video before downloading or sharing.

1. Choose a portrait

Pick a photo of yourself or a consenting adult. A sharp, front-facing image with your face and upper body visible is a useful starting point. Avoid deep shadows, sunglasses, heavy filters, and distant group shots. Our portrait checklist explains how to compare two possible photos.

The intended production upload accepts JPG, PNG, or WebP files up to 8 MB. The local demo accepts JPG and PNG; check the upload box for the options available to you.

2. Sign in and confirm permission

Open the Tiny Desk AI studio, sign in, and select your photo. Confirm that you may use the image and that every adult shown agreed to appear in an AI-generated video. Each accepted task uses one video generation.

3. Submit, then check your account

Start the task and let it run in the background; you can close the page while it processes. Return to My videos to see its status and, when available, preview and download the result. A confirmed failed task returns the video generation used. An uncertain provider outcome may need review.

4. Review the video before sharing

Watch for changes in the face, hands, microphone, and movement. The intended output is a silent, vertical, approximately 15-second performance; live generation has not yet been verified. The local demo produces a static photo video, not an AI performance; availability depends on configuration.

Frequently asked questions

Can I choose a song or write a prompt?

No. The studio uses a fixed visual guide and has no song-upload or custom-prompt field. New videos are silent.

Is this an official NPR video?

No. Tiny Desk AI is independent and is not affiliated with NPR. See our guide to the trend and its song for the distinction.