Photo edit prompt · Trending
90s VHS camcorder still prompt
This prompt turns a photo into a still frame from a 1990s VHS camcorder home video: soft low-resolution detail, horizontal scan lines, a faint tracking wobble, washed-out colour and on-screen "PLAY" and date text in a 4:3 frame.
The prompt
Turn this photo into a still frame from a 1990s VHS camcorder home video. Keep everyone's faces and identities unchanged. Add soft low-resolution detail, slight chromatic aberration, horizontal scan lines, a faint tracking wobble at the bottom, and warm washed-out colours. Add the camcorder overlay text "PLAY ▶" at the top-left and "[DATE, e.g. JUL 14 1996] 6:42 PM" at the bottom-right. 4:3 frame. It should look like a real paused tape, not a filter.
Pro tip: Pair this with the “A Day in 1987” video prompt to make a full retro reel.
How to use this prompt
- Open Gemini and start a new chat.
- Upload your photo (a clear, front-facing one works best).
- Paste the prompt and replace any [BRACKETED] fields with your own details.
- Send it. If something is off, regenerate or change one detail at a time.
Prompt at a glance
- Category
- Photo edit
- Works with
- Gemini · ChatGPT
- Length
- 75 words
- Fields to fill in
- DATE
- Last updated
Frequently asked questions
Which AI tools work with this prompt?
It is written for Gemini and ChatGPT. Both can edit a photo you upload.
What do I need to fill in?
Replace the field before you send it: DATE. Each field shows an example in the prompt.
Will the AI change my face?
The prompt tells the AI to keep faces and identities the same, but results vary between runs. If a face drifts, regenerate or reply "keep the face identical to the original".
Is my photo uploaded to PromptUp?
No. PromptUp only gives you the text of the prompt. You upload your photo directly to the AI tool you choose, under that tool's own privacy terms.
