A Guide on How to Make and Share GIFs on Tumblr

By Dan Published July 4, 2023

Tumblr has long been a hub for creative expression and unique content, and one popular form of visual media on the platform is GIFs. GIFs allow users to convey emotions, showcase their favorite moments, and add a touch of movement to their posts.

If you're eager to dive into the world of Tumblr GIFs and learn how to create and share your own, you've come to the right place. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of making Tumblr GIFs and provide you with some helpful tips and tricks. So, let's get started!

Creating a GIF for Tumblr

To make a GIF for Tumblr, you have several options depending on your preferred method and available tools:

Method 1: Using Photoshop

If you're familiar with Adobe Photoshop, it's a powerful tool for creating GIFs. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Open Photoshop: Launch Adobe Photoshop on your computer.
2. Prepare Your Images: Gather the images or video frames you want to include in your GIF. Make sure they are in a compatible format, such as JPEG or PNG.
3. Create a New Project: Go to File > New to create a new Photoshop document. Set the dimensions and resolution according to your preferences.
4. Import Your Images: Use File > Place Linked or Place Embedded to import your images into the Photoshop document. Arrange them in the desired order.
5. Set Animation Preferences: Open the Timeline panel by going to Window > Timeline. In the Timeline panel, click on the "Create Frame Animation" button.
6. Create Frames: Use the "Duplicate Current Frame" button in the Timeline panel to create frames for each image. Adjust the timing and order of the frames as needed.
7. Preview and Refine: Play the animation in the Timeline panel to preview your GIF. Make any necessary adjustments to timing or visual elements.
8. Save as GIF: Once you're satisfied with your GIF, go to File > Export > Save for Web (Legacy). Choose the GIF file format and adjust any settings you want. Finally, click "Save" to save your GIF.

Method 2: Using Online GIF Makers

If you prefer a more user-friendly approach, you can utilize online GIF-making tools. Some popular options include Giphy, Make a GIF, and Imgflip. Here's a general process for creating a GIF using these tools:

1. Visit the Website: Open your preferred online GIF maker in your web browser.
2. Upload Your Images or Video: Use the provided options to upload the images or video footage you want to include in your GIF.
3. Adjust Settings: Depending on the tool you're using, you may have options to adjust the frame duration, add effects, or resize the GIF.
4. Create and Preview: Click on the "Create" or "Generate" button to create your GIF. Preview it to ensure it meets your expectations.
5. Download Your GIF: Once you're satisfied with your GIF, download it to your computer or device.

Sharing a GIF on Tumblr

Now that you have your GIF ready, it's time to share it on Tumblr. Here's how you can post a GIF on Tumblr:

1. Log in to Tumblr: Visit the Tumblr website and log in to your account.
2. Create a New Post: On your dashboard or profile, click on the "Text" or "Photo" button to create a new post.
3. Upload Your GIF: Use the provided options to upload your GIF. Depending on the post type you choose, you may need to select the GIF from your device's files or use a direct URL if you've uploaded it elsewhere.
4. Add a Caption or Tags: Include a caption or tags for your post to make it searchable and add context to your GIF.
5. Customize Your Post: Use the available formatting options, such as adding links or formatting text, to customize your post further.
6. Publish Your Post: When you're ready, click on the "Post" button to publish your GIF on Tumblr.

Tips and Tricks for Tumblr GIFs

• GIF Size Limit: Tumblr has a size limit for GIFs. To ensure your GIF uploads smoothly, keep it under 3MB in size. Larger GIFs may experience reduced quality or may not upload at all.
• Optimization: Compressing your GIFs can help reduce file size without sacrificing too much quality. Online tools like Ezgif and GifCompressor can help you optimize your GIFs for Tumblr.
• Source and Credit: If you're using GIFs created by others, it's essential to give credit where credit is due. Include the source or creator's name in your post or provide a link back to the original content.
• Explore GIF Communities: Tumblr is home to numerous GIF communities and blogs. Take the time to explore and engage with these communities to discover new GIFs, techniques, and inspiration.

Conclusion

Now that you have a comprehensive understanding of how to make and share GIFs on Tumblr, it's time to unleash your creativity. Experiment with different techniques, explore various styles, and let your imagination guide you. Remember, Tumblr is all about self-expression and sharing unique content, so don't be afraid to embrace your individuality. Happy GIF-making and happy tumbling!