Runway References can use multiple reference images to influence a generated still before video. Consistency improves when references are clear, complementary and not overloaded with conflicting identities.
1. Prepare clean reference views
Choose a small set that clearly shows the same character’s face, hair, clothing or important design features. Avoid contradictory ages, lighting or accessories.
2. Name the invariants
Write the identity features that must remain: face shape, hairstyle, key garment, color accents and any distinctive prop.
3. Generate a new still first
Create the character in the target pose or environment as a still image. Solve identity and composition before asking for motion.
4. Compare identity systematically
Check face proportions, hairline, clothing details and repeated accessories across outputs. Keep only a frame that passes the identity check.
5. Send the approved frame to video
Use the consistent still as the input image, then prompt only the movement and camera behavior. Re-check identity during the entire clip.
Use these references only to preserve the same character identity. Generate a still of the character in [new pose/scene]. Preserve face shape, hairstyle, signature clothing colors and accessory. Do not merge features from other people.
Using many contradictory references; trying to fix identity only after video generation; judging consistency from clothes while the face changes; introducing a new character in the motion prompt.
Finish check
You have an approved still that matches the reference identity and a video clip that keeps the same character recognizable through motion.