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How Long Does AI Video Creation Take—and What Slows It Down?

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Ever wondered how long it really takes to create an AI-powered video? With all the hype around automation and artificial intelligence, many assume it’s a matter of clicking a button. But is it that simple?

In most cases, creating an AI-powered video takes anywhere from a few hours to several weeks. Simple videos with pre-set templates can be completed in less than a day, while custom productions involving advanced AI models and large datasets can take several weeks to finalize.

For example, companies like Synthesia report that clients can turn around templated AI avatar videos in a few hours. But when Netflix created its AI-enhanced short film The Dog and the Boy, it took weeks of collaboration between artists and engineers.

Timeframes depend heavily on complexity, the tools used, and whether you’re generating content from scratch or enhancing existing footage. Keep reading to understand the full picture—and avoid common pitfalls that cause delays.


Quick Answer: How Long Does It Take?

  • On average: Creating an AI-powered video takes 3–10 days.

  • Fastest possible time: Under 2 hours, using automated tools and ready-made templates.

  • Longest possible time: Up to 4–6 weeks, for complex, custom, high-production videos.


Factors Influencing Duration

Type of AI Tool Used

  • Some platforms like Pictory or Synthesia offer near-instant video generation with limited customization.

  • Others like Runway or DeepBrain involve more setup, especially for voice training or advanced editing.

  • Tip: For quick results, choose tools with built-in templates and avatars.

Level of Customization

  • Custom scripts, branded characters, and unique animations take significantly longer.

  • Prebuilt templates reduce turnaround but may compromise uniqueness.

  • Tip: Use pre-made avatars and voice models if speed is more important than originality.

Input Material Availability

  • If you have your script, voiceover, and assets ready, production moves faster.

  • Lack of clarity or poor-quality inputs slow down every step.

  • Tip: Prepare your script and storyboard before opening your AI tool.

Video Length and Complexity

  • Short social clips (30–90 seconds) are quick to produce.

  • Full-length explainers, training modules, or product videos with multiple scenes take longer.

  • Tip: Break longer videos into parts and produce them iteratively.

Post-Production Needs

  • Even AI-generated videos may need editing for polish—music sync, transitions, captions, etc.

  • Outsourcing or manual editing adds time, especially with multiple revision cycles.

  • Tip: Choose AI tools with built-in editing features and voice synchronization.


Best-Case vs. Worst-Case Scenarios

If you're fully prepared and using a templated platform like Synthesia, you might complete your video in under 2 hours. Just upload your script, choose an avatar, and publish.

However, if you're creating a branded explainer using generative visuals, trained voiceovers, and custom animations, it could stretch to 4–6 weeks, especially if multiple stakeholders are involved.


Common Mistakes That Delay the Process

  • Mistake #1: No Clear Script

    • Without a finalized script, you’ll waste time rewriting during production.

    • Simple fix: Finalize your script before choosing an AI tool.

  • Mistake #2: Overcomplicating Visuals

    • Trying to generate hyper-custom scenes slows down rendering and increases errors.

    • Simple fix: Stick to a focused visual style or use proven templates.

  • Mistake #3: Choosing the Wrong Tool

    • Not all AI video tools are created equal; some are better for marketing, others for training.

    • Simple fix: Match your tool to your video type and technical skill level.

  • Mistake #4: Ignoring Licensing Requirements

    • Using unlicensed images, music, or voice models can delay final approval.

    • Simple fix: Use royalty-free or tool-provided assets.

  • Mistake #5: Multiple Review Cycles

    • Too many decision-makers cause bottlenecks in feedback and revisions.

    • Simple fix: Assign a single project owner or set fixed feedback deadlines.


FAQs: Related “People Also Ask” Questions

Question: How can I speed up AI video creation?
Answer: Use a tool with built-in templates, finalize your script first, and avoid unnecessary customizations.

Question: What is the best AI video tool for beginners?
Answer: Platforms like Lumen5 and Pictory are beginner-friendly, offering easy drag-and-drop interfaces.

Question: Can I create AI videos without any technical skills?
Answer: Yes, many tools are no-code and designed for marketers or educators with no tech background.

Question: Do I need voice actors for AI videos?
Answer: No, most platforms offer synthetic voiceovers or let you clone your own voice.

Question: Are AI videos good for YouTube or business use?
Answer: Absolutely—many businesses use AI videos for tutorials, explainers, and even ad campaigns.

Question: What software is used to make AI-generated videos?
Answer: Popular software for AI-generated videos includes Synthesia, Pictory, Runway, DeepBrain, and Lumen5, each offering unique features for different needs like avatars, voiceovers, or text-to-video conversion.

Question: Can AI videos be used for commercial purposes?
Answer: Yes, most AI video platforms offer commercial licenses, allowing businesses to use the videos for marketing, training, or social media. Always check the platform's usage terms.

Question: Do AI-generated videos need editing afterward?
Answer: Often, yes. While many tools produce ready-to-use content, minor editing like trimming, adding music, or adjusting timing is usually needed for polish.

Question: How much does it cost to make an AI-powered video?
Answer: Costs vary from free plans for basic tools to $30–$500+ per month for premium platforms offering advanced features and commercial rights.

Question: Is AI video creation faster than traditional video production?
Answer: Yes, AI video creation is typically much faster, reducing production time from weeks to hours by automating scripting, voiceover, and editing.


Final Thoughts

Creating an AI-powered video can take as little as two hours or stretch into weeks depending on your goals, tools, and prep work. Knowing the process helps you plan smarter and avoid costly delays.

Have you tried creating an AI-powered video yet? Share your timeline and tips in the comments!


Citations

  1. Synthesia. (2024). How Long Does It Take to Create a Video? https://www.synthesia.io/blog/video-production-time

  2. Runway Research. (2023). Multimodal AI and Video Creation. https://research.runwayml.com/

  3. Adobe. (2024). AI Video Production Workflow Guide. https://blog.adobe.com/

  4. Forbes. (2023). AI in Content Creation: The Real Timeline. https://www.forbes.com/

  5. Netflix Japan. (2023). Behind the Scenes: The Dog and the Boy. https://about.netflix.com/ja/news/ai-and-animation-documentary

  6. Pictory. (2024). AI Video Generator Pricing and Features. https://pictory.ai/

  7. DeepBrain. (2024). Create AI Avatar Videos Quickly. https://www.deepbrain.io/

  8. Lumen5. (2024). AI Video Maker for Business. https://www.lumen5.com/

  9. Google Search. (2025). People Also Ask & Related Searches for “AI video creation”, “AI-generated video software”, and “AI video production cost”

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