TikTok is a popular short-form video app that allows users to create, share, and discover videos ranging from 3 to 60 seconds. Since launching in 2016, TikTok has grown to over 1 billion monthly active users as of September 2021, according to reports by Ecwid and Hybrid Digital. It has become a global phenomenon, especially among teenagers and young adults.
One of the features that makes TikTok unique is its wide variety of filters and effects that users can apply to their videos. These augmented reality (AR) filters add visual elements like animated stickers, masks, and distortions. TikTok is best known for its facial filters that can change a person’s face or add differentspecial effects. Among the most popular is the moving filter, which makes parts of an image appear to move.
The Moving Filter
The filter on TikTok that makes pictures move is called Photo Motion. This augmented reality filter animates still photos by adding lifelike motion to them. According to TikTok’s Discover page, the Photo Motion filter “brings your photos to life with realistic motion.”
How the Filter Works
The Moving Filter on TikTok is able to make still photos come to life by creating a panning and zooming effect. According to TikTok’s support page, this is done through their “Effects” feature which allows users to apply different filters to their videos or photos.
Specifically, the Moving Filter analyzes the photo and then virtually pans and zooms around the image to make it appear more dynamic. As explained by Screenrant, this mimics a “camera moving around and over the still image as if it were a video.”
The filter is able to detect faces and objects in the photo in order to move strategically from one focal point to another. This creates the illusion that the people and objects in the photo are actually moving. Overall, the filter brings an extra layer of motion and dynamism to otherwise static images.
Using the Filter
Accessing and applying TikTok’s moving photo filter is easy. First, open the TikTok app and tap on the plus icon to create a new video. On the camera screen, tap on ‘Effects’ and browse through the available filters. Look for the filter called ‘Dynamic Photo’ and select it. You’ll see a preview of how your static photo or video will move when the filter is applied.
Once you’ve selected the Dynamic Photo filter, simply take or upload a photo or short video clip as you normally would. The filter will automatically animate your photo/video, making it look like parts are moving. You can adjust the intensity of the effect and customize exactly how your image moves using the slider tool. Tap the checkmark icon to save the video with the effect applied.
That’s all there is to it! The Dynamic Photo filter detects features in your image and intelligently applies subtle motion for a captivating, lifelike effect. Give it a try on your static photos and prepare to bring them to life.
Ideal Uses
The photo motion filter works especially well on certain types of photos. Lifestyle, action, and landscape shots tend to see the best results with this effect.
For lifestyle photos, the filter can make scenes with people look more lively and animated. Group shots at parties or events are ideal, as multiple moving figures make the effect more pronounced. The filter brings an extra dynamism to photos of people talking, dancing, or engaged in activities.
In terms of action shots, the moving photo effect adds an extra sense of motion and intensity to sports, performances, or any fast-paced scenes. The filter visually enhances the existing motion in the photo through the animated effect.
Stunning landscape images also work beautifully with this filter. It can make elements like rolling clouds, rippling water, or swaying trees seem to move within the frame for a magical effect. Scenic vistas and nature shots come alive with the subtle motion the filter provides.
Overall, the photo animation effect takes already compelling lifestyle, action, and landscape photos and gives them an extra vibrancy. For TikTok users looking to enhance these types of existing photos, this effect is ideal.
Creative Examples
The Moving Filter on TikTok opens up many creative possibilities for video creators. Here are some innovative examples of how TikTokers are using this effect:
Jera Bean (@jera.bean) created a surreal effect by applying the Moving Filter to a photo of a bed on the beach. As the photo moves, it looks like the waves are gently rocking the bed, transporting viewers into a dreamy scene.[1]
Another TikToker, @moodygrams, used the filter on a photo of a moonlit forest to create an eerie, mystical vibe as the trees seem to sway and the light filters through the leaves.[1]
The Moving Filter can also be used on portrait photos. @tobz88 applied the effect to a close-up selfie, making it look like the subject is turning their head side to side.[1] This creative use of the filter adds dynamism and visual interest to an otherwise static photo.
As these examples demonstrate, the Moving Filter opens up new possibilities for bringing still photos to life on TikTok. With some imagination, the effect can transport viewers into imaginative scenarios or add subtle motion for visual impact.
Pro Tips
Here are some pro tips for getting the best results with the moving filter on TikTok:
Lighting
Proper lighting is key for making your moving photos stand out. According to this tutorial video, you’ll want bright, even lighting without harsh shadows. Natural light near a window works well. You can also use professional lighting kits and reflectors to illuminate yourself and your background.
Composition
Carefully compose your photo or video before adding the effect. Decide what will be the focus and make sure it stands out. Use the rule of thirds to place key elements off-center for a more dynamic look. Frame the shot creatively and include interesting backgrounds.
Editing
Use editing features within the TikTok app to refine your moving photo after applying the effect. Adjust the intensity of the movement for a subtle or dramatic look. Crop and zoom the frame for emphasis. Enhance the lighting, color, and other properties for a high quality final product.
Limitations
While the moving filter on TikTok can produce fun and creative effects, it does have some limitations users should keep in mind:
The filter may not be suitable for all types of content. More complex scenes with multiple subjects or fast movement may not translate well through the filter. The effect works best on photos with a clear singular focus. Busy backgrounds can also distract from the intended subject when put in motion.
Additionally, the filter has limits on file size and length. According to TikTok’s guidelines, effects should not exceed 5 MB when fully uploaded. And videos can only be up to 60 seconds long when using effects.
So while the moving photo filter opens up creative possibilities, users will get the best results by keeping clips short, simple, and tailored to the effect. Understanding these boundaries allows users to work within the filter’s constraints and maximize its impact.
Alternatives
TikTok has a few other filters that create a moving effect in photos, similar to the Dynamic Photo filter. Other TikTok filters to try include:
The Photo Motion filter – This popular filter creates subtle motion in photographs. The movement is more gradual compared to the Dynamic Photo filter. It looks like the wind is lightly blowing elements in the photo.
The Time Warp Scan filter – This adds a cool scanning effect to photos, making it look like the picture is quickly moving across the screen. The photo zooms in and scans from one side to the other.
The Zooming Picture filter – As the name suggests, this TikTok filter slowly zooms in on a photo. It creates the illusion that the viewer is physically moving closer to the image.
While not an exact replacement, these filters provide alternate ways to make still photos come to life with motion on TikTok. The effects aren’t as dramatic as the popular Dynamic Photo filter, but they can add interest to static images.
Conclusion
The moving filter on TikTok has quickly become a popular way for creators to animate static images and add a unique visual style to videos. While simple on the surface, mastering the filter takes some practice and creativity. With the right photo or video clip, the moving effect can take already great content to the next level.
In summary, the moving filter gives users, both amateur and professional, a powerful but easy-to-use tool to enhance their videos. As with any creative tool, skill and experimentation will produce the best results. But the barrier to entry is low, so anyone can try out the filter and start creating eye-catching moving photo effects. As TikTok continues to grow in popularity, expect the moving filter to spawn even more innovative and captivating videos.
