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How to Use Filters on TikTok

Published July 29, 2024

TikTok is all about creativity and expression, and one of the best ways to enhance your videos is by using filters. Filers can add fun effects, change the mood of your video, or even transform your appearance. Ready to make your content more engaging? Let’s get started!

What Are TikTok Filters?

Filters on TikTok are visual effects that can be applied to your videos to alter their appearance. They range from simple color adjustments to complex effects that change your background or add animated elements.

Types of TikTok Filters

There are typically two types of filters you can use on TikTok:

General Filters

These adjust the overall look of your video, such as color tones and brightness.

Effects

These are more interactive and can include augmented reality (AR) elements, facial recognition effects and more.

How to Use General Filters on TikTok

Open the TikTok App

Launch TikTok on your device and tap on the plus icon (+) at the bottom of the screen to create a new video.

Access Filters

Once you’re on the recording screen:

  • Select Filters: Click the ‘Filters’ icon on the right side of the screen. It looks like three overlapping circles.
  • Browse Filters: A row of filter options will appear at the bottom of the screen. Swipe left or right to browse through the available filters.
  • Preview Filters: Click on a filter to see how it looks. You can switch between filters until you find one you like.

Record Your Video

After selecting a filter:

  • Record: Press and hold the rest record button to start recording your video with the chosen filter.
  • Edit: Once you’ve recorded your video, you can make additional edits like adding music, text or stickers.

How to Use Effects on TikTok

Effects can add a whole new level of creativity to your videos. Here’s how to use them:

Open the Effects Gallery

On the recording screen:

  • Click Effects: Tap the ‘Effects’ icon on the left side of the screen. It looks like a magic wand.
  • Browse Categories: The Effects gallery is divided into categories like Trending, New, Green Screen, Funny and more.
  • Select an Effect: Click on an effect to apply it. You can preview the effect in real-time as you record.

Record With Effects

Once you’ve selected an effect:

  • Position Yourself: Make sure you’re in the frame and that the effect is applied correctly.
  • Record: Press and hold the red record button to capture your video with the effect.

Combine Effects and Filters

You can use both effects and filters simultaneously to enhance your video further:

  • Apply Filter First: Choose a general filter first by tapping the ‘Filters’ icon.
  • Add Effect: Then tap the ‘Effects’ icon to layer an effect on top of the filter.
  • Record: Record your video with both the filter and effect applied.

Closing Thoughts

The bottom line is that using filters and effects on TikTok is a fantastic way to enhance your videos and make them stand out. Whether you’re adjusting the color tones or adding a fun AR effect, these tools can help you express your creativity and engage your audience. So, try them out and see what works best!

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Written By:
AUTHOR & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Jessica is a consultant, researcher, and the editor-in-chief of the Buzzoid blog, who specializes in social media, marketing, and digital strategy. She is a graduate of Antioch College and earned her MBA at Boston College’s Carroll Graduate School of Management, specializing in STEM Management.

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