If you come across a fun or interesting filter on TikTok that you want to try, using it is easy! TikTok has made filters readily accessible so any user can apply filters they see others using in just a few taps. The key is finding the effect in the Effects Gallery.
Finding the Filter in the Effects Gallery
The Effects Gallery houses all of the AR effects and filters available on TikTok. To find a specific filter you’ve seen in someone else’s video, open the TikTok app and tap on the plus (+) icon to open the camera. Before recording a video, tap on the “Effects” button at the bottom – this will open the Effects Gallery.
At the top of the gallery, you’ll see tabs for “Trending”, “Following”, and “For You”. Start by tapping through these tabs which showcase effects that are currently popular on TikTok. If you don’t see the filter you’re looking for, tap on the magnifying glass icon to search. Type in keywords related to the filter such as the name, song, or any visible text effects. For example, searching “puppy” will surface filters involving cute puppies.
You can also search by sounds or songs. Tap on the music note icon in the Effects Gallery to browse TikTok’s licensed music library. Search for the song used in the video showcasing the filter you want. Often the filter will appear attached to its paired audio.
Once you’ve found the effect, tap on it to open a preview. Double check that it’s the one you want, then tap “Try” to apply it to your camera feed. The filter is now ready to use in your own video!
Using Your Favorite Filters in Future Videos
Any filter you’ve tried out will be automatically saved to your “Favorites” tab in the Effects Gallery. Open your Favorites to quickly access filters you want to reuse without having to search for them again.
You can also tap on the bookmark icon while previewing an effect to save it. And if you want TikTok to suggest effects similar to your favorites, make sure “Suggest based on favorites” is enabled in your Effects Gallery settings.
Other Ways to Find Filters
In addition to the Effects Gallery search, there are a couple other ways to dig up filters on TikTok:
- From a video: If you’re watching someone else’s video with a filter you want, tap on the filter name that appears at the bottom left. This will take you directly to that effect in the Effects Gallery.
- From hashtags: People will often tag their videos showing off certain filters with relevant hashtags. Searching a hashtag like #puppyfilter or #babyfilter can surface more videos using those effects. You can then easily find the filter in the Effects Gallery.
- From ads: Keep an eye out for promoted effects that show up between videos as small sponsored ads. Tap on them to try out new filters.
- From the Discover tab: Tap the search icon and select “Effects” to browse recommended and trending filters on TikTok.
Creating Your Own Filters
In addition to using the preset filters created by TikTok and other users, you can also make your own custom filters in the TikTok app!
Tap on the plus (+) icon to open the camera, then select “Effects” at the bottom. Tap on the “Create” tab in the top right corner. Here you’ll have the option to create an AR effect or a visual effect.
AR effects use augmented reality to add animated 3D objects that respond to your face and environment. Choose a pre-made 3D object like glasses or a hat and customize the look. Add text if you want.
Visual effects let you overlay static stickers, text, colors, and more onto your selfie camera. Select a creative filter template or start from scratch. Customize elements like text font, color, placement, and add your own doodles or drawings.
Once you finish designing your custom effect, name it something catchy and tap “Save”. Your original filter will now be saved to your Favorites to use any time. And if you publish it, it can potentially go viral across TikTok!
Pro Tips for Using Filters
Filters are a great way to enhance your TikTok videos and jump on viral trends. Keep these pro tips in mind:
- Preview a filter before recording with it to plan out your video concept.
- Pair filters with appropriate trending audios for maximum engagement.
- Use flattering filters that complement your look and personality.
- Find the right balance between filters and your original content.
- Favor filters that elicit positive emotional responses from viewers.
- Search by relevant hashtags to discover what’s currently trending.
- Create your own signature filter to brand your TikTok presence.
- Most importantly, have fun and express your creativity!
TikTok filters provide endless possibilities. With billions of videos and effects available in the app, you can always find fresh inspiration. Now you know how to easily use any filter you come across to enhance your own content and engage your audience!
