GIF is one of the image formats. It is a convenient format for creating lightweight animated images, and is widely used for design purposes such as SNS and websites.
However, although we often see GIFs being used, many people may not know how to create GIFs or the tools that are useful for creating them.
Therefore, in this article, we will introduce how to create GIFs separately for smartphones and PCs. We’ll also explain useful tools for creating GIFs and the benefits of using GIFs. Please refer to it.
What is GIF animation?
First, I will give an overview of GIF animation. Animated images usually take up a lot of space, so they cannot be used extensively on homepages or SNS. However, since GIF is a lightweight animated image, it is often used in the design of homepages, SNS, etc.
Also, GIF is an image format that allows the background to be transparent. For this reason, GIFs are often used to create logos and illustrations, so it’s good for designers to know how to create them. GIFs can also be combined to create something similar to a flip book, so they are also recommended if you want to add movement to your icons.
However, GIF only has 256 colors. This has fewer colors than JPEG or PNG, and the range of expression is inevitably narrower. In other words, GIF is not suitable if you want to express detailed colors.
However, GIFs are currently mostly used for animated images that are lightweight, so be sure to read this article to learn how to make them.
How to create GIF animation using a PC
From here, I will show you how to create GIF animations using a computer. Please note that the creation method is slightly different between Windows and Mac, so please remember the creation method depending on the OS you are using.
Windows
When creating on Windows, use the Office software PowerPoint. Here’s how to create a GIF animation using PowerPoint.
As you can see, you can easily create GIF animations using PowerPoint. You can choose from four levels of quality, but unless you have a special reason, you can select “Medium (medium quality: 480/15fps)”. If you want better image quality, try choosing full HD quality.
Mac
On Windows I use PowerPoint, while on Mac I use Keynote. Here’s how to create a GIF animation using Keynote.
You can create GIF animations on Mac as easily as on Windows. If your Mac doesn’t come with Keynote preinstalled, you can install it for free.
How to make GIF animations on your smartphone
So far, we have explained how to create GIF animations using a computer. Here we will explain how to create GIF animations using the iPhone, among other smartphones. Android users can create animations using the tools described below.
Starting with iOS13, “shortcuts” for creating GIF animations are included as standard. You can create GIF animations using shortcuts by following the steps below.
If the shortcut app is not installed by default, install it from the App Store.
8 tools useful for creating GIF animations
So far, we have explained how to create GIF animations. From here, we will introduce tools that are useful for creating GIF animations, divided into PC and smartphone versions.
PC version
On the PC version, the following 5 tools will help you create GIF animations.
Let’s look at each in turn.
gifs
gifs is an animated image creation tool that is compatible with both Windows and Mac. The advantage is that you can easily crop specified areas and edit images. Another good point is that it is easy to use, as there is no need for any troublesome work such as installation,
downloading
, or
account
registration.
LICEcap
LICEcap can be used on both Windows and Mac. You can create GIF animation images from videos on your desktop. For those who don’t need large movements like videos, but still images are not enough, you can create medium-sized GIF animations.
GIMP
GIMP is a useful tool that allows you to create not only GIF animations but also CG. Although it is open source, it is equipped with a variety of functions that are comparable to paid tools. Please note that it is not possible to enlarge or reduce the image in GIMP, so we recommend that you use another tool to enlarge or reduce the size before using GIMP.
GIPHY Capture
GIPHY Capture is a tool that can only be used on Mac. Easily convert screen captures into GIF animations. The interface is so good that Mac users will find it the easiest to use.
VideoProc
VideoProc is a tool that can be used on both Windows and Mac. You can also create GIF animations and videos, and it’s free to use, so it’s suitable for people who are looking for a tool that can do a variety of things at an affordable price. The paid version has better image quality and more features than the free version.
Smartphone version
On the smartphone version, the following three tools will help you create GIF animations.
Let’s look at each in turn.
FlipaClip
FlipaClip is a tool that allows you to draw pictures on your smartphone. You can overlay illustrations or create GIF animations from overlapping illustrations. It also has an excellent interface, so it is recommended for people who are looking for an easy-to-use tool.
gif toaster
GIF Toaster is a tool that has the basic functions necessary for creating GIF animations, such as adjusting playback speed and overlaying illustrations. In addition to creating images, you can also create videos. You can also edit videos, so it’s recommended for people who want to use it for a variety of purposes.
ImgPlay
ImgPlay is a tool that allows you to enter text and edit images for Instagram. You can easily turn photos and videos on your smartphone into GIF animations, so it’s recommended for people who are looking for an easy-to-use tool.
What are the benefits of using GIF?
So far, we have introduced tools that are useful for creating GIF animations. So, what are the benefits of using GIF? Examples include the following:
If you use large videos on your homepage or SNS, the display speed will slow down. However, GIFs have the advantage of being lighter in size than videos, and can be displayed quickly to users without any problems.
Additionally, because the image has movement, it can catch the user’s attention. Although GIFs are easy to create, just using GIFs can increase engagement, so using them when you want to increase user response rates is a big advantage.
It is also effective for explaining procedures at work. There may be many inconveniences with videos, such as not being able to send them or having a fixed storage period. In this regard, GIF animations can be treated in the same way as images, so the content can be easily checked, making them more convenient than videos in many situations.
Summary: Master GIF animation
In this article, we have explained GIF animation. GIF animations take up less space than videos and are easier to manage. What’s more, if you have videos that can be used as materials, creating GIF animations no longer requires a lot of effort.
Also, you can create it on either your PC or smartphone, so you have the advantage of being able to create it anytime and anywhere. This is perfect for people who want to insert memorable images and videos on SNS or websites.
First of all, why not try creating a GIF animation according to the contents explained in this article according to your own environment?