Lesson Content

When targeted editing wins.

Editing is more efficient than regeneration when: the generated clip is mostly correct with one localized problem (an unwanted element in the background, a small detail that needs changing), the overall composition and motion are working and only one specific visual element needs modification, or regenerating would require rebuilding from scratch what is already working in 90% of the frame.

When full regeneration is better.

Regeneration is better than editing when: the fundamental composition, motion, or visual direction of the clip isn't working (editing can't fix a wrong creative direction), the problem is distributed throughout the frame (not localized), or when the issue is so significant that editing would require masking and replacing the majority of the image anyway.

Sequential workflows.

Many effective workflows combine generation and editing: generate a base clip, then use inpainting to refine specific elements that aren't right, then use extension to lengthen the result. This is more efficient than attempting a single generation that must be perfect in every dimension simultaneously.

Avoiding over-editing flawed source material.

Spending significant time editing (masking, inpainting, background replacement) on a source clip with fundamental problems that editing can't address is wasted effort. Evaluate honestly whether the source clip's core is working before committing to editing it.