Animated GIFs are surging in popularity once again. From early internet novelties to modern social media staples, they're perfect for expressing reactions in messages or posts.
Contents: Create your animated GIF | Customize it with dozens of effects | Share it | What app do you use?
Creating animated GIFs has traditionally been tricky, but the Giphy Cam app simplifies it dramatically using your iPhone's camera and a library of effects.
In contrast to Photoshop's complexity, Giphy Cam is straightforward. Launch the app to access your camera with two options: Tap the Shutter for a burst GIF (five quick shots) or hold it for a video-to-GIF recording.
Note: Burst mode captures five shots that loop forward and backward for a dynamic effect.
Burst mode loops forward then backward; video mode plays forward only before looping. As someone who's tested both extensively, I prefer burst mode for its playful back-and-forth motion.
Giphy Cam offers over 40 effects across categories, accessible right from the camera view.
Standard filters mimic Instagram's color adjustments. "Reactions" add quirky animations like smiles or tears. The magic wand attempts background swaps but performs inconsistently—skip it based on my trials.
Overlays layer fun decorations, while the Party category focuses on festive themes. Favorites include slider sunglasses and the iconic "deal with it" glasses—guaranteed to bring laughs.
Save to your camera roll or share via Messages, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, email, or other apps through the share sheet.
Note: Instagram converts GIFs to video; camera roll saves may lose animation (likely a bug).
Experiment freely—you'll master GIF creation quickly.
Tip: GIF is pronounced "JIF," as confirmed by its creator.
Share your go-to GIF app and why in our forums.
