How to make a video of you hugging a grandparent from two photos

Updated October 21, 2026 · Reviewed by The Rift team

Short answer

Add one photo of yourself and one photo of your grandparent to Rift, then tell Spark you want them to hug and describe the place. Spark plans the shots and shows a Draft. Tap Make and you get a short, gentle video of up to 15 seconds in your Library. Keep the movement small.

Add one photo of you and one of your grandparent, and Spark brings them together in a hug. Old and faded photos can work too.

What you need

An iPhone with Rift.
A clear photo of you and a clear photo of your grandparent.
A place that means something to you both.

Step by step

Restore the older photo if it needs it. See restore an old photo and bring it to life.
Add both photos to Rift.
Tell Spark the scene. Where you are and how you hug.
Check the Draft. The price is on the Make button.
Tap Make and save the video to Library.

Lines to try with Spark

“Me and my grandfather hugging on the porch of his old house, warm evening light.”
“Grandma holds my face and smiles in her kitchen.”
“A slow hug in the garden, gentle breeze, soft focus.”
“Keep the movement small. No dancing or sudden moves.”

Tips

Keep it gentle. Small movements feel respectful.
Match the light. Warm for both photos looks natural.
Watch it with family first. Make sure it feels right for the people closest to them.
Keep the original photos. The video is an addition.

For a version with your younger self, see make a video of you hugging your younger self.

Questions people ask

Do the two photos need to be from the same year?

No. Photos from different places and different years can be brought together.

Can I use a faded photo?

Yes, but restore it first if it is faded or scratched, because a clear face matters.

Can I put us in a place we loved?

Yes. Name the porch, the garden or the kitchen.

Can I send it to the family?

Yes. Save it from your Library and share it. It's yours to post anywhere.

Do I need to be in a photo too?

Yes. Add a photo of yourself and one of your grandparent, and Spark brings them together.