TikTok is an immensely popular social media platform where users create and share short video clips. It has over 1.2 billion users worldwide as of 2022 [(https://xperiencify.com/tiktok-statistics/)], making it one of the most downloaded apps of all time. One of TikTok’s defining features is its vast library of filters and effects that allow users to edit and transform their videos in creative ways.
TikTok offers a range of filters designed to alter a video’s appearance, from adjusting color and lighting to adding digital stickers, text overlays, and augmented reality effects. There are over 20 categories of effects, including beauty, fun, animal, food, photo, and more. The platform makes it easy for users to browse, preview, and apply filters with just a few taps while recording or editing videos.
Filters have become integral to the TikTok experience, with features like analytics showing 64% of users have tried face filters or lenses [(https://www.socialpilot.co/tiktok-marketing/tiktok-statistics)]. TikTok’s filters encourage creativity and allow users to enhance their content. However, some users choose to remove filters after filming for a more authentic look. This raises the question – can you remove a filter on TikTok after filming?
Why Use Filters on TikTok
Filters have become immensely popular on TikTok as they add creative and fun effects to videos. According to KubbCo, TikTok filters can create unique content and even spark trends when certain filters are used repeatedly. One of the main benefits of using filters is they provide an entertaining way for users to get creative with their videos.
Filters on TikTok range from subtle enhancements to over-the-top effects. Some filters add sparkles or color gradients to videos, while others morph facial features or add virtual makeup. The possibilities are endless when it comes to finding filters that match a video’s vibe. Overall, filters give an extra layer of visual interest that helps videos stand out in TikTok’s endless scroll. Using the right filter for the right TikTok can take content from basic to viral.
Filming with Filters
TikTok makes it easy to add fun and creative filters to your videos as you’re recording them. To use a filter when filming your TikTok:
Tap on the “Effects” tab on the left side of the screen, next to the record button. This will open up TikTok’s filter library.
Browse the different filter categories like “Trending”, “Beauty”, and “Fun” to find one you want to use.
Tap on a filter to preview it. Once you find one you like, tap on it again to select it.
The filter will now be applied to your camera viewfinder. Record your TikTok video as normal and the filter will be added to the footage.
Some tips for filming with filters:
- You can swipe left and right to browse different filters quickly from the camera screen.
- Tap the filter icon again during recording to change or remove the filter.
- Use filters sparingly. 1-2 filters maximum is usually best.
So get creative and let TikTok filters enhance your videos! Just tap Effects before recording to add some visual flair. As per TikTok’s instructions, filters can be easily applied with just a few taps.
Removing Filters After Filming
If you’ve already recorded a TikTok video using a filter and want to remove it, there are a couple options:
On the TikTok mobile app, go to your profile and select the video you want to edit. Tap the “Edit” button in the bottom left corner. This will take you to the editing screen. Tap on “Effects” at the bottom and you will see the filter that was applied. Tap on the filter icon to remove it.
You can also remove filters by downloading your TikTok video then re-uploading it. To download, go to your profile, select the video, tap the share icon and choose “Save video.” Then go back to the TikTok app and upload the saved video. Since it’s being re-uploaded, any filters will be removed.
Third party apps like FlexClip also allow you to import a TikTok video, remove filters and effects, then export the edited video to re-upload.
So in summary, tap “Edit,” go to “Effects,” select the filter and delete it or download the video and re-upload it to remove any filters from already recorded TikTok videos.
Pros of Removing Filters
One of the biggest pros of removing filters on TikTok after filming a video is that it allows viewers to see your authentic self. Using excessive filters can distort your appearance and make you seem disingenuous. Removing filters helps present a more genuine image and lets your followers engage with the real you.
Getting real reactions from viewers is one of the most rewarding parts of posting on TikTok. When you remove filters, viewers can respond to you as you truly are, not an idealized or edited version. This helps build a sense of community and gives you feedback that feels more meaningful.
In addition, removing filters allows your talents and personality to shine through more clearly. Rather than having visual effects distract from your content, an unfiltered video keeps the focus on you. This gives viewers a better sense of who you are as a creator.
Overall, embracing your natural beauty and presenting an authentic self helps attract followers who appreciate you as you are. The connections you build feel more real when filters are removed from the equation.
Cons of Removing Filters
One of the main downsides of removing filters after filming a TikTok video is that you lose the creative editing effects and transformations that filters provide. Filters on TikTok offer a wide range of options to alter the look of your videos, from subtle touches like smoothing skin or enhancing color, to dramatic effects like face morphing or full CGI environments. By removing a filter, you take away these artistic elements that were likely intentionally chosen. This may result in a more amateur, unfinished appearance to your videos if the unfiltered footage relies heavily on the filter’s effects.
For example, the popular “Disney” filter adds cartoon animations and backgrounds that entirely transform an ordinary video into a creative, fairy tale world. Similarly, filters like “Bold Glamour” provide a vivid, editorial style by boosting contrast and saturation. Without these filters applied, the videos would lose the heightened, fantasy aesthetics. While filters shouldn’t be overused, they can provide an artistic flair when used purposefully.
Additionally, some users choose filters specifically to enhance or alter their appearance. Removing these beauty filters takes away subtle facial refinements and can reduce a video’s visual appeal. However, embracing natural beauty is an increasing trend on social media.
Most Popular Unfiltered TikTok Trends
Recently there have been several popular TikTok trends focusing on embracing authenticity and ditching excessive editing and filters. The #UnfilteredChallenge, which started in 2021, encourages people to show their bare face without any makeup or editing. It promotes self-love and not judging yourself harshly. This trend shows the real person behind the filter, imperfections and all.
The #AcnePositivity movement also blew up on TikTok, with people proudly showing their acne, acne scars, and other skin conditions without filters. This trend aims to normalize skin issues that have long carried stigma and shame. The raw, unfiltered videos provide solace to those who feel alone in their struggles with skin conditions. By flaunting imperfections, these unfiltered trends on TikTok promote authenticity and self-acceptance.
Should You Remove Filters?
There are pros and cons to keeping or removing filters on your TikTok videos. Here are some things to consider when deciding:
You may want to keep the filter if:
- The filter adds creativity, fun or interest to your video
- You like how you look with the filter’s effects
- The filter matches the mood or theme of your content
- You don’t mind using filters and trends, even if inauthentic
You may want to remove the filter if:
- You want your content to feel more genuine and real
- You don’t want to rely on filters to look a certain way
- The filter detracts from your video’s purpose and message
- You care more about authenticity than following trends
The choice depends on your brand, values and goals. Make sure any filters used match the tone you want to set. But don’t be afraid to ditch filters and get real when it fits your content best.
Expert Tips for Filter Use
Influencers on TikTok have shared some best practices when it comes to using filters:
- Be authentic and don’t rely solely on filters. Let your personality shine through. As influencer Charli D’Amelio says, “Don’t hide behind a filter. Show people who you really are.” (Source)
- Use filters to enhance your content, not define it. Choose filters that match the mood and feel of your video. (@tiktokcreators)
- Mix it up. Occasionally post videos without a filter so followers can see the real you. This creates trust and relatability. (@tiktokinsiders)
- Test different filters and analyze performance data to see which ones resonate most with your audience. Tailor filter choice to your niche. (@tiktokanalytics)
- Don’t go overboard. Stick to 1-2 filters max per video. Too many filters can distort the image quality. (@tiktokbestpractices)
- Credit the filter creator if using someone else’s custom filter. This spreads creativity on the platform. (@tiktoktips)
The key is finding the right balance of filters to keep your content fresh and engaging without compromising authenticity. Let your true personality shine through the fun effects!
Conclusion
In summary, many TikTok users enjoy using the platform’s creative filters when filming videos. However, some users may later decide they want to remove a filter they initially applied. While TikTok doesn’t provide the ability to edit and remove filters after filming, there are a few workarounds. The most common options are reshooting the video or using a third party editing app to strip the filter off the existing video.
There are pros and cons to removing filters after filming. Some of the benefits are presenting a more authentic look, showcasing creative editing skills, and jumping on trends like the “unfiltered” hashtag. Downsides include potential loss of quality or distortion when removing filters, and the extra time and effort it requires. Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference and creative goals.
When using filters in videos, it’s best not to rely on them too heavily. Focus on quality content that engages viewers with or without flashy effects. But feel free to get creative and explore TikTok’s many options. Just know that removing a filter after filming takes some workarounds, so decide thoughtfully when applying them.
