Make a Short Video From Scratch

From a one-line idea to a finished short: concept, visuals, motion, edit and subtitles.

This workflow turns a one-line idea into a polished short video. You start with ChatGPT to refine the concept and write a script, then create stunning visuals with Midjourney. Next, you animate those images using Kling AI's motion capabilities. In Descript, you edit the video by editing the transcript—a fast, intuitive method. Finally, you add auto-subtitles and polish with Captions. This combination works because each tool specializes: AI writing, high-quality image generation, text-to-video, transcript-based editing, and automated finishing. It's for content creators, marketers, or anyone wanting to produce shareable short videos without traditional production skills.

The workflow, step by step

1
Draft the script and storyboard
ChatGPT
Use ChatGPT to generate a concise script and shot list from your one-line idea. It excels at iterative, contextual writing, letting you refine tone and length. Over other chat models, it offers superior instruction following and analysis.
Hand-off → A polished script and storyboard outline ready for visual generation.
2
Create key visuals from prompts
Midjourney
Midjourney produces high-quality, artistic images that visually represent your script's scenes. It's preferred over other image generators for its aesthetic quality and prompt adherence.
Hand-off → A set of high-resolution images matching each storyboard frame.
3
Animate stills into video clips
Kling AI
Upload your Midjourney images to Kling AI to add motion. Kling excels at creating smooth, camera-controlled animations and can sync lip movement if needed. It's better than alternatives for short, dynamic clips.
Hand-off → Short video clips with motion for each scene.
4
Edit video by editing the script
Descript
Import clips and script into Descript to cut, rearrange, and add voiceover by editing the transcript. This tool is best for rapid, text-based editing, avoiding complex timeline work.
Hand-off → A rough cut with synchronized audio and video.
5
Add auto-subtitles and polish
Captions
Captions automatically generates professional subtitles and applies color grading, sound effects, and music. It's the best for simplifying the final polish and ensuring accessibility.

Free tier; $9.99/mo Pro

Frequently asked questions

How much does this full workflow cost?

ChatGPT is free or $20/month for Pro, Midjourney starts at $10/month, Kling AI is free with limited credits, Descript has a free tier and Pro at $24/month, Captions is free with optional paid upgrades. Total can be under $50/month if using free tiers, but pro features cost more.

Are there free alternatives for each tool?

Yes: Use Google Gemini instead of ChatGPT, Stable Diffusion locally for Midjourney, Runway Gen-2 for Kling, DaVinci Resolve for Descript, and CapCut for Captions. Quality varies, but viable.

Where should a beginner start?

Start with ChatGPT to define your idea and script. Then generate one image in Midjourney to see if the style works. Then proceed step by step, as each step depends on the previous output.

What's a common mistake in this workflow?

Skipping storyboarding — without a clear shot list, Midjourney images won't match the narrative. Also, over-relying on AI for voiceover without manual correction can sound robotic.

How long does this workflow take?

For a 30-second short, expect 2-4 hours total if you're familiar with tools. First time may take longer due to learning curves.