How to Create DeepFakes for FREE (A Quick Tutorial)

Introduction

Creating deepfakes has become more accessible thanks to various tools and technologies available today. In this article, we will cover how to use an open-source project that facilitates motion transfer between images and videos. Although the tool may not be perfect, it provides a fantastic opportunity for users to experiment with animating images for free.

Understanding the Basics

The method we’ll explore is based on the thin plate spline motion model for image animation. By following this tutorial, you will learn how to animate a still image using the movements captured in a video, referred to as the driving video. Before we start, it's important to clarify that the content created using this tool is intended for educational purposes only.

Getting Started

Step 1: Prepare Your Inputs

To animate an image, you will need two input sources:

1. An image that you wish to animate.
2. A video that will serve as your driving video.

Once you have your sources ready, head over to the designated website (link provided in the description).

Step 2: Upload Your Sources

On the website, you'll be presented with two sections to input your sources—one for the image and one for the driving video. You can choose to use an example image or upload your own:

• Input Source Image: You can either use the provided example image of Donald Trump or upload your own by clicking "drop a file" or "click to select."
• Driving Video: Upload the video you want to use for the animation process.

Step 3: Select the Model

The tool offers four models for animation. For this tutorial, we will focus on the first one:

1. Celebrity Model: This model is designed to learn facial movements from celebrities talking in front of the camera and applies those movements to your input image.
2. Tai Chi Model: Animates your image as if it is performing Tai Chi.
3. TED Talk Model: Converts your image to give the impression of delivering a TED Talk.
4. Animated GIF Model: Adds animated GIF effects to your image.

After selecting the Celebrity Model, you can initiate the animation process.

Step 4: Animate and Download

The tool will analyze the driving video and create a video of your input image that mimics the facial expressions and movements of the person in the video. Once the process is complete, click on the video to download your animated image.

Conclusion

Using this open-source tool grants you the ability to experiment with motion transfer and create compelling animations of still images effortlessly. Happy animating, and thanks for joining me on this tutorial!

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Keyword

deepfakes, animation, motion transfer, driving video, thin plate spline, image animation, celebrity model, Tai Chi model, TED Talk model, animated GIF model, educational purposes.

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FAQ

What is deepfake technology?
Deepfake technology uses artificial intelligence to create realistic-looking fake videos by swapping faces or manipulating movements.

Is the animation tool free to use?
Yes, the tool we discussed in the tutorial is open-source and free to use.

What types of models are available for animation?
There are four models: a Celebrity Model, Tai Chi Model, TED Talk Model, and an Animated GIF Model.

Can I use my own images and videos?
Absolutely! You can upload your own images and videos for the animation process.

Is there any ethical concern regarding deepfakes?
Yes, deepfakes can pose ethical issues, such as misinformation or impersonation, and should be used responsibly for educational or entertainment purposes only.