What is the wipe trend?
The wipe trend on TikTok is a video editing technique where a transition wipe is used to magically transform into a different scene. It involves recording yourself in front of a mirror or other reflective surface, then wiping the surface with your hand or a cloth to transition to a completely different outfit, makeup look, or environment in a seamless edit.
To achieve the wiping transition effect, users record short clips showcasing two different looks, then utilize editing software to cut and layer the clips. A wipe transition is inserted in the middle, synced to the motion of wiping the mirror or surface, to creatively transition between the two scenes.
The result is an eye-catching and cleverly edited TikTok video that seems to magically transform the user with a simple wipe of a mirror. According to Time, it leaves viewers wondering “was that video editing or magic?” This creative use of transitions has made the wipe trend popular and widely replicated on the platform.
Why is the wipe trend popular?
The wipe trend has become hugely popular on TikTok thanks to its creative use of video editing and special effects. Essentially, the trend involves using a “wipe transition” between video clips to magically transform into a different outfit or scene. This allows creators to showcase quick one-take transformations and scene changes in a fun and engaging way.
One of the main reasons the wipe trend has gone viral is because it shows off slick video editing skills and creativity. The seamless transitions are satisfying to watch and often incorporate unexpected surprise reveals. The effect almost makes it seem like magic or a superpower. This ties into the general popularity of transition and special effect videos on TikTok.
Additionally, many videos use the trend to transform into elaborate costumes and personas. The unexpected transformations let users show off “alter egos” or creative concepts. Dancing and lip-syncing videos also utilize the wipe trend to transition between different stylized looks and outfits. Overall, the versatility of the effect helps it trend across genres on TikTok.
Citations:
According to Time Magazine, “The idea behind the challenge is simple: the video begins with someone wearing one outfit, they they wipe down a mirror, and appear in a new outfit.” (https://time.com/5840553/wipe-it-down-challenge-explained/)
Step 1: Choose the right audio
The wipe trend relies heavily on pairing fun, catchy audio with the video transitions. Some of the most popular audios used for the trend include:
“Wipe It Down” by BMW Kenny – This fast-paced hip hop track with the lyrics “wipe it down then wipe me down” helped kickstart the trend. Many early wipe challenge videos used this song (https://www.tiktok.com/discover/wipe-it-challenge?lang=en).
“Oh No” by Capone – The famous TikTok sound features a girl singing “oh no, oh no, oh no no no no.” The transitions sync up perfectly with the beat drops in this song.
“You reposted in the wrong neighborhood” – This viral meme song adds a funny twist to the wipe trend. The wonky beat provides great timing for the wipe transitions.
Videos also use other catchy hip hop, rap, and R&B songs with an upbeat tempo. The key is choosing music with a catchy beat that aligns with the wiping motion and quick video transitions.
Step 2: Set up your camera
Proper camera positioning and angles are key to creating seamless wipe transitions. Here are some tips for setting up your camera:
- Mount your camera on a tripod or steady surface. This will help keep it completely still between clips.
- Position yourself in the center of the frame. The transition wipe will happen directly over you, so you want to be centered.
- Film horizontally. The wipe transition works best in landscape orientation rather than portrait.
- Pay attention to your angles. Face the camera head-on for the first clip. Then shift your body in the direction you want to transition for the second clip.
- Keep your distance from the camera consistent. If you move closer or farther away, it can jolt the transition.
- Make sure you have enough space to move out of frame. Move fully out of the camera’s view before wiping back in from the other side.
Proper positioning is crucial. As this TikTok tutorial demonstrates, you want your body positioned in the center and far enough back to give space to move in and out of frame.
Step 3: Record the transitions
This is the most important part of creating a wipe trend video. You’ll need to perform the transitions smoothly and with perfect timing. Here are some tips:
- Decide on your transition moves in advance and practice them to get the timing right. Popular moves are spinning around, squatting down, jumping up, pretending to throw something, etc.
- Record each transition clip in one smooth take without stopping. Keep your movements energetic and dynamic.
- Time your clips to match the beat of the audio. Most wipe videos transition on beat drops in the music. Aim for transitions every 4-8 beats.
- Allow yourself 2-3 seconds before and after each transition to edit the clips together smoothly.
- Change up your transitions and add variety. Don’t use the same move every time.
- Express yourself and have fun! Your personality and enthusiasm will make the video engaging.
With practice and good timing, you’ll be able to create seamless transitions that look truly magical in your wipe trend video.
Step 4: Add effects and filters
Visual effects and color filters can take your wipe trend video to the next level. Here are some options to consider:
- Add a vignette effect to darken the edges and draw focus to the center of the frame. This heightened contrast helps the transitions stand out.
- Apply a subtle filter like Valencia or Nashville to give the video a stylized look. Avoid filters that are too overpowering.
- Use overlays like sparkles or lens flares to accentuate the transitions. Place them strategically so they animate on/off screen.
- Toggle on beauty effects to smooth skin and make colors pop. Don’t overdo it – you want to look natural.
- Play with blur effects, slow motion, and zooming for dramatic wipes. Use them sparingly so it’s not disorienting.
- Add text on top of clips to label the scenes/emotions. Use big, bold fonts that stand out.
The key is to enhance the transitions without being too distracting. Aim for tasteful effects that elevate the video.
Step 5: Edit and sync the clips
Once you have all your individual clips recorded, it’s time to combine them into one cohesive video. This step requires video editing software like iMovie, Adobe Premiere Pro, or even TikTok’s built-in editing tools.
Import all your clips into the editing software. Then add your chosen wipe audio track to the timeline. Line up the transitions in your clips to match the “wipe” sounds in the audio. For example, the first wipe sound should coincide with your first outfit change clip. The second wipe goes with the second clip, and so on.
Use the editing software’s trim tool to refine the timing so the wipes line up perfectly with each outfit change. Add transitions between clips if desired. You can also use the software’s filters and effects to alter the colors, saturation, etc. The goal is to end up with a seamless Wipe It Down trend video that flows to the beat of the music.
Refer to your editing software’s tutorials if you need guidance on the technical steps. Syncing clips to audio takes some practice but getting it right is key for a polished, viral-worthy Wipe It Down video.
Step 6: Post and promote
Once your wipe trend video is complete, it’s time to post it to TikTok and promote it to gain more views and engagement. Here are some tips for posting:
Choose a compelling title and description. Summarize what the video is about and use relevant keywords people may search for. For example: “Wiping Down My Mirror TikTok Challenge”
Add relevant captions throughout the video to keep viewers engaged. Point out transitions and any effects.
Use popular hashtags like #wipetrend, #wipeitdown, #wipeitchallenge, #transition, #cleaning, and #satisfying. Include both popular and specific hashtags.
Consider requesting shares or duets in the caption to encourage engagement. Ask viewers to tag friends who might like the video.
Post at optimal times when more users are active, such as evenings and weekends. Analyze when your target audience is on TikTok.
Promote your video across other social media platforms where you have an audience. Share it to your Instagram story, Facebook page, etc.
Engage with commenters and duetters. Like comments and respond when appropriate. Feature fan videos on your page.
Use TikTok analytics to assess performance and refine your strategy. Pay attention to viewer drop off rates, likes, shares, comments, etc.
Consistently post wipe trend content to establish yourself as a creator. Experiment with trend variations to keep growing your audience.
Wipe Trend Variations
While the original wipe trend involves transforming into a different look, TikTokers have put creative spins on it:
Some use clever editing to morph into multiple different people with each wipe, showing off impressive costume changes and makeup artistry. Others add quirky twists by transforming into unexpected things like cartoons, food items or animals.
Certain TikTokers use the trend to tell a story, changing the setting with each wipe or acting out a comedic situation. The possibilities are endless for customizing the trend and putting your own unique stamp on it.
In addition to outfit changes, TikTokers alter other aspects like hairstyles, ages, genders and moods. Some compile wipe clips submitted by followers for collaborative, crowd-sourced versions.
While the core trend remains wiping down a mirror and transitioning looks, the variations TikTokers have dreamed up demonstrate the creative bounds of the platform.
Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes when doing the wipe trend and tips for avoiding them:
Not wiping in a straight line – Make sure to wipe the mirror or object in one smooth, straight motion to get a clean transition between clips. Wiping haphazardly can make the effect look sloppy.
Smudging or streaking the mirror/object – Wipe gently with a microfiber cloth to avoid leaving smudges or streaks behind. You want the surface to look shiny and new after wiping.
Bad lighting – The transition relies on seeing your reflection clearly. Make sure you have good, even lighting with no shadows across the wiping surface. Position lights at eye level or above to avoid shadows.
Going too fast – Don’t rush the wipe transition. Wipe slowly so viewers can see the change happen. Doing it too fast makes it hard to see the effect.
Not changing expression/outfit – Plan your transition ahead of time and change something noticeable about your appearance for a more dramatic effect. Keeping the same outfit and expression makes the trend less exciting.
Shaky camera – Use a tripod to keep the camera completely still during filming if you can. This stabilizes the shot and makes the transition look smooth and seamless.
Bad audio sync – Precision editing is key. Zoom in on your clips and sync the transition frame-by-frame to the audio for a flawless effect.
