What are GIFs?
GIFs (short for Graphics Interchange Format) are short animated images or video clips that loop continuously. GIFs are commonly used on social media, in messaging apps, email, and blogs to express emotions or reactions.
Some key things to know about GIFs:
– GIFs are usually short, typically just a few seconds long. This makes them easy to quickly send to convey a feeling or idea.
– GIFs are silent and don’t have audio. The animation loop conveys the meaning.
– GIFs can be used to show reactions, jokes, movie clips, memes, and more. Their animated nature makes them more expressive than static images.
– There are tons of GIFs available online to represent just about any emotion, reaction, or situation.
– GIF file sizes are small, making them easy to send quickly in messaging apps without using a lot of data.
Why use GIFs in text messages?
There are many great reasons to use GIFs in your text messages:
– GIFs allow you to express emotions and reactions quickly. You can react to something silly your friend said by sending a laughing GIF, for example.
– GIFs add some fun and visual interest to your messages. Static text can get boring after a while.
– GIFs help add tone, personality, and humor to your conversations. You can gently tease someone with a winking GIF.
– Sending the perfect GIF that captures an inside joke between you and a friend can spark conversation and laughter.
– GIFs are the digital equivalent of nonverbal communication like facial expressions and gestures we use in in-person conversations. They help conversations feel more natural.
– In group chats, GIFs help you chime in without disrupting the flow. You can react to the conversation without typing interruptive texts.
– Some concepts or inside jokes are hard to put into words. A GIF can capture the essence and convey your thoughts.
How to find GIFs to use
There are many great websites and apps that allow you to search through millions of GIFs and copy them with just a tap:
GIF websites
– Giphy – This is the largest and most popular GIF search engine online. It has a huge catalog of high-quality GIFs to represent just about anything. They also partner with lots of other apps and services to provide GIFs.
– Tenor – Similar to Giphy, Tenor has an enormous collection of searchable GIFs. They also have some categories and collections based on different TV shows and movies.
– GIFer – GIFer has a simple, clean interface to search for trending GIFs and make your own.
– Gifer – This site has various GIF categories and ways to create your own GIFs from YouTube videos.
GIF Keyboards and Apps
– Gboard – Google’s Gboard keyboard for Android has an integrated GIF search and share feature. Just tap the GIF button while typing a message.
– iOS Keyboard – Apple’s default keyboard app also has a GIF button to search and send without leaving your conversation.
– Facebook Messenger – You can search for and send GIFs right within your Facebook chats. Tap the smiley face icon.
– WhatsApp – When typing a message in WhatsApp, tap the emoji icon and select GIF to search Giphy’s library.
Tips for picking the best GIFs
When searching for GIFs, keep these tips in mind:
– Find GIFs related to inside jokes – Using a GIF from a TV show or movie you both love adds more meaning.
– Search with relevant keywords – Use words related to the emotion, reaction, or context you want to convey.
– Make sure GIFs aren’t too large – Pick GIFs with shorter durations to keep file sizes small for quick sending.
– Check that GIFs make sense without sound – Remember GIFs are silent, so pick ones that visually convey the idea clearly.
– Use GIFs sparingly – Sending too many GIFs can be disruptive or annoying. Use them when they really add to the conversation.
– Don’t overthink it! – Finding the perfect GIF should be fun, not stressful. Stick to apps with big libraries that make searching easy.
Apps to make your own GIFs
If you want to get creative and make your own customized GIFs, try these apps:
Giphy Cam
Giphy Cam allows you to capture and edit short videos that can be turned into GIFs instantly. You can add text, stickers, filters, and effects. It’s easy to share your new personalized GIFs.
GIF Maker
This app by ImgPlay lets you combine photos and videos from your camera roll into a GIF. You can control the GIF speed, add image overlays and text, and resize it.
GIF Me!
Similar to Giphy Cam, this app by LOL Pics Inc. uses your device’s camera to snap a quick video. You can then edit it and add text or drawings to create a unique GIF.
GifLab
GifLab by Alertmobile is packed with options to turn videos into GIFs. You can crop, resize, change the frame rate, add captions, insert other images, overlay text, and more.
GIF Maker Studio
This highly customizable app by Caynax lets you import videos or photos then edit each individual frame. You have full control over the final GIF quality and size.
GIF design tips
If making your own GIFs, keep these design principles in mind:
– Keep GIFs short – Aim for 1-5 seconds in length so they are compact and don’t take long to view.
– Use high contrast colors – Bold, contrasting colors will make the important parts pop. Avoid busy backgrounds.
– Highlight key motions – Focus on key movements or actions. Leave non-essential moments out to keep it short.
– Add text sparingly – Text can clarify the message but don’t overdo it. The animation should speak for itself.
– Check clarity on mobile – Since GIFs are mostly viewed on phones, make sure the content is clear on small screens.
– Balance novelty and clarity – Aim to make novel GIFs, but not so abstract that the meaning is muddy.
– Keep animations smooth – Avoid jagged motions. Keep frame rate consistent for better flow.
Troubleshooting GIF issues
Here are some common GIF issues and fixes:
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| GIFs not playing in chat | Update to latest app version. Close and reopen app. |
| GIF looks pixelated | Save GIF at higher resolution if possible. Large, high-quality GIFs work best. |
| GIF has text errors | Recreate GIF fixing text issues. Use high contrast text colors. |
| GIF file size too large | Use app tools to compress GIF or lower resolution. Keep GIFs under 10MB. |
| GIFs pausing to load | Shorten GIF duration and simplify animations. Use apps to optimize file size. |
GIF etiquette
To avoid annoying others, follow this proper GIF etiquette in messaging:
– Don’t overuse GIFs in long conversations. Occasionally use them to complement texts.
– Make sure GIFs are relevant and add value to the chat. Don’t spam random GIFs.
– Size matters. Don’t send enormous GIFs that take forever to load. Keep them under 10MB.
– Consider your audience and avoid controversial or insensitive GIFs.
– Don’t send GIFs with distracting animations during serious or urgent conversations.
– If you’re not sure a GIF is appropriate, just send a text instead. It’s better to err on the side of caution.
– Let others send GIFs too rather than dominating the chat with them. Make sure it’s a two-way street.
– Use GIFs thoughtfully and intentionally when they truly enhance a chat rather than for the sake of sending them.
Conclusion
GIFs are a fun way to add some colorful expression and entertainment to your text conversations. With the right apps and search tools, you can easily find the perfect GIFs to convey reactions, emotions, jokes, and more.
Try to pick GIFs that are relevant, smooth, and optimized for quick sending on mobile. If you get creative, you can use special apps to make custom GIFs with a personalized touch. Just be sure to follow proper GIF etiquette.
With the right balance, GIFs can take your standard text chats to the next level and bring some smiles to your friends’ faces. The visual format allows you to communicate in a livelier, more engaging way. So go ahead and search for that perfect GIF to make your point or get a laugh – just don’t overdo it!