Using a Real Person's Photo as a Reference: The Consent Requirement Explained
What reference photos do
In a Movie, you can attach reference photos to help keep a person or subject consistent across your shots. Fresh shots use your references as a visual guide. Continue shots take their look from the previous shot instead.
[[CONFIRM: reference photos are enabled for all users in production. The code gates this behind a setting that defaults to off.]]
The consent requirement
Before you add your first reference photo to a Movie, you must confirm that you have the right to use it. If you attach a photo of a real person, that means you have their permission, or the photo is of yourself.
This confirmation is required. Without it, the photo can't be added, and the time you confirmed is recorded on the Movie.
Why this exists
AI video can make a real person appear to do or say things they never did. That can be used to harm people. Asking for confirmation up front:
- Protects people from having their likeness misused.
- Makes clear that you take responsibility for the photos you upload.
- Helps keep SoulrisAI usable and safe for everyone.
What "the right to use" means in practice
Generally fine:
- Photos of yourself.
- Photos of someone who has clearly agreed to be in your project.
- Images of fictional characters or objects you created or are allowed to use.
Not okay:
- A photo of someone who hasn't agreed.
- Using someone's likeness to mislead, impersonate, harass or embarrass them.
For the full rules on what you can create, see our acceptable use policy.
How to add a reference
- Open your Movie.
- Choose to add a reference photo.
- Select an image from your uploads or from images you've generated.
- Optionally give it a short label, up to 40 characters.
- Confirm that you have the right to use it.
Limits to know
- A Movie can have only a limited number of references.
- The same image can't be added twice.
- The image has to be one in your own account.
- You can remove a reference later.
Do references guarantee the same face?
No. AI video tools are good at consistency but not perfect. Results can vary between shots. Use clear, well-lit photos, and don't expect an exact match every time. For tips on prompts, see writing prompts for video.
If you see misuse
If you come across content that you think breaks these rules, use the report option in the app or contact us.
Related guides
Try it yourself: add a reference photo of yourself and run a short fresh shot.