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How to Do the AI Hugging Video Trend with Runway AI

  • July 16, 2025
    Updated
how-to-do-the-ai-hugging-video-trend-with-runway-ai

The AI Hugging Video trend is blowing up on TikTok and Instagram, where users create emotional animations of people hugging, using photos of loved ones or even celebrities. These videos resonate with their touching and shareable moments of connection.

You can easily transform static images into dynamic hugging videos using AI tools like Runway AI, creating memorable and meaningful content with just a few clicks.

In this blog, I’ll walk you through a simple step-by-step guide on how to do the AI-hugging Video trend with Runway AI.

Let’s get started with the steps!


How to Create AI Hugging Videos Using Runway AI: Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a simple guide to walk you through creating an AI-hugging video using Runway AI in just a few easy steps.

Step 1: Select and Edit Photos on Instagram

  • Open Instagram Stories and select the Layout feature.
  • Add the two photos of the people you want to hug.
  • Resize and align the photos so the heads are the same size and the bodies are positioned closely together.
  • Save the combined image.

two-people-standing-side-by-side-in-instagram-story-edit-layout-using-select-photo-option

Step 2: Crop the Image

  • Open the saved photo and crop it to focus on the people. Ensure the image is balanced with both characters aligned evenly.

cropping-two-photos-in-instagram-story-layout-to-align-people-side-by-side-for-ai-hugging-video

Step 3: Sign Up for Runway AI

Visit Runway AI, sign up for a free account, and log in.

runway-ai-login-screen-with-options-to-sign-up-or-log-in-using-google-or-apple-accounts

Step 4: Select the Generative Video Tool

Once logged in, navigate to the tools dashboard and select the Generative Video tool from the available options.

selecting-generative-video-tool-in-runway-ai-dashboard-for-video-creation

Step 5: Upload Your Photos

Upload two clear, front-facing photos of the people you want to feature in the video.

uploading-two-clear-front-facing-photos-to-runway-ai-generative-video-tool

Step 6: Choose the AI Model

Select Gen-3 Alpha Turbo for fast video generation.

selecting-gen-3-alpha-turbo-ai-model-in-runway-ai-for-fast-image-to-video-generation

Step 7: Add a Prompt

Type a prompt like “Make them hug each other while facing the camera” in the text box to instruct the AI.

adding-a-prompt-in-runway-ai-to-generate-ai-hug-video-of-two-people-facing-each-other

Step 8: Generate the Video

Select the video time and click Generate to create the hugging animation. If the video doesn’t generate due to high demand, keep clicking until it is processed.

generating-ai-hugging-video-in-runway-ai-with-prompt-and-duration-selection

Step 9: Preview and Adjust

Review the video. If necessary, adjust the images or prompt and regenerate.

Step 10: Export and Share

Once you’re happy with the result, download and share the video on social platforms like TikTok or Instagram.

download-the-ai-generated-video-of-hugging-trend-to-post-on-tiktok-and-instagram


Why Is This Trend So Popular on TikTok?

Now that you’ve created your AI-hugging video, let’s explore why this trend has become so viral.

  • Emotional Connection: The AI hugging trend allows users to recreate heartfelt moments with loved ones, even those who have passed away, making it deeply relatable.
  • Personal Touch: Users create personalized content that resonates emotionally, which encourages more engagement from viewers.
  • TikTok-Friendly: TikTok’s algorithm prioritizes emotional and creative videos, increasing the chances of these videos going viral.
  • Easy to Share: The short, consumable format of TikTok videos makes it easy for users to create, share, and interact with the trend quickly.
  • Creative Customization: The AI technology allows users to make unique videos, helping them stand out on the platform and gain more visibility.

To understand why this trend is booming on TikTok, let’s look at some viral examples.

  • In this viral TikTok video with 6.2 million views, a user creates a heartwarming AI hug with his mother, celebrating his graduation day, making it a touching and nostalgic moment.
@justnoehperez kahit dito lang mayakap kita🫶 ILOVEYOU MAMA❤️ #fypシ #aihuggingtrend #imissyou #hugtrendcouple#artificelintelligence ♬ Through The Years – Kenny Rogers

  • AI can also be used to create powerful connections, even with loved ones who have passed, as seen in the emotional AI-generated hug between a daughter and her late mother.
@officialjoyce08 I miss you so much mum and it hurt 🕊️😭#Ai hug #tagviralvideomillion❤❤ #tagviral ♬ In The Stars – Benson Boone


Expert Tips for Making the Best AI Hugging Videos

For the best results, consider these expert tips when using best AI video tools for creating your AI hugging video.

  1. Choose High-Quality Photos: Clear, well-lit images will result in smoother animations and more realistic hugging effects.
  2. Play with Emotions: Use photos that convey genuine emotions, whether it’s a warm smile or a loving gaze, to enhance the touching nature of the video.
  3. Experiment with Backgrounds: Changing backgrounds or adding filters can make your hugging videos more dynamic and visually appealing.
  4. Add emotional music: Incorporate music that complements the emotional tone of the video, which is especially effective for TikTok content.
  5. Test Different Poses: Try experimenting with different angles and poses in the original photos to see which generates the most realistic hugs.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Like any creative process, there are a few common mistakes you can avoid to create a flawless AI-hugging video.

  • Using low-quality photos: Poor-quality images lead to awkward or unclear animations. Always use clear, high-resolution images for the best results.
  • Unclear prompts: Vague or overly complex prompts can confuse the AI. Keep your video prompts simple and direct, like “two people hugging tightly.”
  • Poor character alignment: Proper alignment of characters ensures that the hug looks authentic. Adjusting proportions and using tools for precision alignment is essential.
  • Bad camera angles: Framing is crucial to highlighting the emotional bond between the characters, so ensure that camera angles focus on their connection.
  • Ignoring preview: Always review the preview of your generated video. If the movement or alignment looks off, regenerate the video until it meets your expectations.
  • Skipping multiple generations: Don’t settle for the first output if it doesn’t look right. Regenerate the video as many times as needed to get the best possible animation.
  • Wrong AI Model: Make sure to select the Gen-3 Alpha Turbo model for smoother and faster video generation with Runway AI, which is the best available option in Runway AI for human-like gestures.

How Much Does Runway AI Cost?

Runway AI offers flexible pricing, from a free plan to premium options. Here’s a quick breakdown of the available plans.

Plan Monthly Cost Yearly Cost Credits/Features
Free $0 $0
  • Limited credits
  • Watermarks on video generations
Standard $15 per editor/month $12 per editor/month (yearly)
  • 625 credits/month
  • Watermarks removed
  • Access to Gen-3 Alpha Turbo (Image to Video)
  • Upscale resolution
Pro $35 per editor/month $28 per editor/month (yearly)
  • 2250 credits/month
  • Includes all Standard features
  • Custom voices for lip sync
  • PNG & ProRes video exports
Unlimited $95 per editor/month $76 per editor/month (yearly)
  • Unlimited video generations
  • All Pro plan features
  • Unlimited use of AI models

When to Upgrade:

  • Standard Plan: If you need more credits or want to remove watermarks.
  • Pro Plan: If you need custom voice creation or high-quality exports.
  • Unlimited Plan: Ideal for users requiring unlimited video generation.

Also, read my RunwayML Review for more details on pricing and key features.


What is the Best Alternative To Runway ML for Creating AI Hugging Videos?

If you’re searching for an alternative to Runway AI, Luma AI (Dream Machine) is a top option. It specializes in AI Image-to-Video generation, creating realistic 3D animations from static images, which makes it ideal for producing AI-generated hugging videos.

luma-dream-machine-homepage-showcasing-3d-animation-features-for-image-to-video-creation

Luma AI stands out with its ability to add depth and detail, resulting in realistic video generation. Whether you’re looking to capture emotional moments or create visually stunning content, Luma is perfect for generating high-quality, immersive animations.


AI Hugging Video Trends: What’s Next?

AI-generated video trends are constantly evolving. Here’s what’s on the horizon for AI-powered creations.

  • More Realistic Animations: AI advancements will bring smoother, more natural movements, making the animations feel even more lifelike.
  • Deeper Customization: Future updates will offer more control over expressions, gestures, and backgrounds, allowing for finer adjustments.
  • Expanded Emotional Connections: AI may evolve beyond hugs, enabling users to create videos with other emotional gestures like handshakes, high-fives, or even conversations.
  • Broader Use Cases: These innovations will continue to redefine how we express emotions and connect through digital content.

Explore More How-to Guides

Looking for more ways to enhance your creativity with AI? Check out other how-to guides for practical tips and fresh ideas!


FAQs about AI Hugging Videos with Runway AI

Runway AI is an online platform that offers AI-powered tools for generating videos, images, and other creative content. It’s widely used for tasks like video editing, image-to-video conversion, and creating AI-generated animations.

Yes, Runway AI offers a free plan with limited credits. However, your videos will have watermarks, and you will need to upgrade to paid plans to access more features and remove watermarks.

To make a hugging video in Runway AI, upload two clear images, select the Generative Video tool, and type a prompt like “two people hugging.” Runway AI will then generate the animation​.

For the best results, use high-quality, well-lit, front-facing images. Ensure the resolution is at least 1080p to ensure clarity and smooth animations.

The generation time depends on the complexity of the prompt and the AI model used, but typically, video generation takes a few seconds to a couple of minutes.

As with most AI tools, you should be cautious when using personal images. Review Runway AI’s privacy policies to understand how your data is used and stored​.

Conclusion: Start Your AI Hugging Journey

Creating AI hugging videos with Runway AI is quick and easy, adding a personal touch to your social media posts. You can now join the trend and make heartfelt content in no time.

With this guide on how to do the AI hugging video trend with Runway AI, you’re ready to craft and share your own emotional moments, leaving a lasting impact on your audience.

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Articles written 2042

Midhat Tilawat

Principal Writer, AI Statistics & AI News

Midhat Tilawat, Principal Writer at AllAboutAI.com, turns complex AI trends into clear, engaging stories backed by 6+ years of tech research.

Her work, featured in Forbes, TechRadar, and Tom’s Guide, includes investigations into deepfakes, LLM hallucinations, AI adoption trends, and AI search engine benchmarks.

Outside of work, Midhat is a mom balancing deadlines with diaper changes, often writing poetry during nap time or sneaking in sci-fi episodes after bedtime.

Personal Quote

“I don’t just write about the future, we’re raising it too.”

Highlights

  • Deepfake research featured in Forbes
  • Cybersecurity coverage published in TechRadar and Tom’s Guide
  • Recognition for data-backed reports on LLM hallucinations and AI search benchmarks

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