AI has changed what we can do with a single photo. Today’s top photo-to-video apps use artificial intelligence to animate portraits, generate lifelike avatars, or even build entire videos from a single headshot. Whether you're making a talking business card, bringing an old photo to life, or generating dynamic content from a selfie, there's an AI tool that can do it in minutes.
Below, we’ve rounded up the best apps in 2025 for turning photos into videos—each with different strengths, from facial animation to voice-driven avatar creation.
1. AI Studios by DeepBrain AI
Best for professional talking avatar videos
AI Studios lets you turn a single photo into a full AI avatar video. With the Photo Avatar feature, all you need is a high-quality headshot. Upload it, type your script, and the platform will generate a video of your avatar speaking naturally—complete with lip-sync, facial animation, and voice options in over 110 languages.
It’s great for professionals who want to create video business cards, product intros, or personalized training content without filming. You can also use a cloned voice, add subtitles, and export in 4K. There are no credit limits, making it ideal for scaling.
Key features:
- Upload your photo to create a talking avatar
- Script editing with ChatGPT built-in
- Voice cloning available
- Unlimited video exports
- Used widely for marketing, training, and outreach
2. D-ID
Best for quick talking head videos from selfies
D-ID specializes in facial reenactment. Just upload a selfie or portrait and type a script—or record your voice. The platform animates the photo so it appears to speak with basic expression and movement.
It’s great for quick demos, social content, or localized greetings. While the videos are shorter and simpler than those from AI Studios, D-ID is very fast and beginner-friendly.
Key features:
- Quick upload and output
- Supports text or audio input
- Browser-based and mobile-friendly
- Free and paid tiers available
3. TokkingHeads (by Rosebud AI)
Best for fun or creative facial animation
TokkingHeads animates faces from photos using expressive motion presets. You can make your subject sing, wink, smile, or react with stylized gestures. It’s less about realism and more about fun, so it’s perfect for social media posts or creative storytelling.
While not designed for professional or business use, it’s one of the most entertaining options out there.
Key features:
- Animate faces with fun expressions
- Add custom audio or choose stock clips
- Great for memes, short videos, and creators
4. Reface (formerly Doublicat)
Best for entertainment and face-swapping
Reface is known for face-swapping, but it also offers animation tools that turn your photo into a character in pre-made videos. Think short movie clips, music videos, or GIFs where your face is the star.
It’s designed mostly for casual and viral content—not business or training—but is incredibly fast and user-friendly.
Key features:
- Swap your face into video scenes
- Large library of templates
- Mobile-first experience
5. Deep Nostalgia by MyHeritage
Best for animating old family photos
If you want to bring historical or archival photos to life, Deep Nostalgia animates them with subtle head movements, smiles, and blinks. It’s designed specifically for family memories and has gone viral for making old portraits feel alive again.
It doesn’t support voice or speech but excels at respectful and realistic animation of static images.
Key features:
- Animate heritage photos and portraits
- Focuses on subtle, emotive realism
- Free for MyHeritage users
Choosing the Right App
If your goal is to create professional video content using your face and voice, AI Studios offers the most polished and scalable solution. The Photo Avatar tool works well for sales, training, and branded communication, especially if you want control over scripting, voice, and video quality.
For more casual or creative uses, apps like D-ID, TokkingHeads, and Reface are excellent picks. And if you're reviving family memories, Deep Nostalgia is purpose-built for that.
