Storrito Q&A: How do you create and use your own viral GIFs on Instagram?

Want to successfully showcase your brand on Instagram? Then Instagram Stories should be a part of your daily work. In our "Storrito Q&A," we’ll explain everything you need to know about Instagram, Instagram Stories, and Instagram marketing.

Today: How do you create and use your own viral GIFs on Instagram?

GIFs are a fun way to communicate on messengers and social media platforms. They can even bring your Instagram stories more to life. They are fun to watch and can enrich your content.

How to insert a GIF into your stories

Using the GIF sticker in your stories is as easy as it gets. Just create your story as desired. Then, click on the sticker emoji in the menu at the top of your screen.

Here you will find the GIF sticker. Tap on the magnifying glass to open the GIF search. At the top, in the “Search GIPHY” bar, you can now search for whatever GIF you are looking for.

When you are finished searching, click on your chosen GIF to insert it into your story. You can now re-size and relocate it. You can even mirror it if you think it is the wrong way around.

If you decide you don’t want to use the GIF, you can always delete it. Just drag it to the bottom of your screen, where you will find a little garbage can. Let go of the GIF above the bin to delete it.

How to get your branded GIF into your Instagram Stories

Sadly, you cannot upload your branded GIFs directly to Instagram. There are a lot of free online tools and apps that can help you create your own GIF.

When you have finished creating the GIFs, you need a verified Giphy account. Only verified users are allowed to make their branded GIFs available for Instagram Stories.

But this is not a bad deal, because verified Giphy accounts also have access to an analytic dashboard. Here, you can measure the usage and success of your GIFs.

When you upload your GIFs as stickers, you need to adhere to some requirements to get them approved. For example, at least 20 percent of the GIF must be transparent. And at least one component must be animated.

Now, you can choose keywords to tag your GIF with. These are the search words users will use to find your GIFs while creating their stories

Benefits of having your own branded GIFs

With your own branded GIFs, you can add a bit more personality to your Instagram content. These short, looping graphics make your posts more engaging.

Of course, you can always use the GIF selection Instagram provides. Or you can insert GIFs from other brands. But just imagine the impact on your business if customers start searching for your branded GIFs.

By having your own GIFs, you can show your customers and potential customers that you are really keeping up with the times. Your followers will be able to share your GIFs in their own stories, and in this way, spread the word for you and strengthen your brand awareness.

You can even create seasonal GIFs for your users. This way, your followers can use different GIFs you have created throughout the year. You can be found by new potential followers when they are searching for Easter, Christmas, or summer GIFs.

Conclusion: Instagram Stories are the foundation of a good marketing strategy

Instagram Stories are becoming an increasingly important part of a good marketing strategy. To make it easier to work on Instagram Stories in a team, Storrito can help. You can design, edit and schedule your stories from the comfort of your computer. This way, everyone has access to and an overview of your Instagram Stories.