Facebook has been gunning for Snapchat for a few years now. After its failed attempt at purchasing the face-warping, geo-filtering messaging app in 2013, Facebook has been making painstaking efforts to buy, copy or kill it. And in yesterday’s update to Frames, a Snapchat geofilter spinoff, users can now create their own filters for parties, events, or just for fun.
While its “in-camera” option is only testing in selected markets (outside the U.S.), currently anyone can create a frame for their favorite pictures and videos. While Frames has existed since last year, Facebook is now allowing anyone to create and submit their own artwork. According to Facebook, because location and general frames are public, “friends or people who like your Page are more likely to see your frame on Facebook.”
So, if you’re interested in learning how this new tool works and want to engage your fans with Frames, check out these steps below, or follow the guide on the Frames site:
- Create a new PNG file in Photoshop or free program like Pixlr. Facebook recommends a 2400 x 2400 file and encourages each “element” (a word, an icon, a drawing) to be done in a different frame. If you’re not too tech-savvy, you can also download a free Template from their website. Frames require a transparent background, so users can resize and overlay each element over an image, and Facebook requires that any artwork is original.
- When you’ve finished your design, save each element as a PNG file.
- Upload your completed PNG files to facebook.com/fbcameraeffects.
- Once uploaded, you can arrange your elements on the canvas to compose your frame.
- Preview your Frame and add details, such as location and duration.
Facebook requires an approval process for all public filters, so be sure to follow the guidelines. Now that users can add and edit their own filters, we will begin to see much more customization on this platform. Filters can add to your overall image and brand and have the capacity to improve your overall relevance and engagement. With the success of filters for solidarity, political and social movements, as well as Snapchat’s proven success, this area of connection is sure to increase.