How to make a GIF
DigitalNZ collaborates with Trove, Europeana, and others on the annual GIF IT UP competition competition. We've put together a bunch of tutorials for GIF making below, so that you can create your own wiggly giffy creation.
What is a GIF?
A GIF (Graphics Interchange Format) is a type of image file that supports both static and animated images. It’s widely used on the internet for sharing short, looping animations and is popular for memes, reactions, and short clips because of its small file size and ease of use.
How do I find an image to make a GIF?
Start by finding an image or series of images for your GIF. Filter DigitalNZ search results by 'Images' and 'Use commercially' to see images that you can use to make a GIF.
Or browse curated collections of reusable images from Europeana, DPLA, DigitalNZ, Trove, Japan Search, DAG Museums, Art Institute of Chicago, Bibliothèque et Archives nationales du Québec, and Centro de Fotografía de Montevideo on the GIF IT UP website.
How do I make a GIF?
There are many tutorials that explain how to make a GIF using different programs.
DigitalNZ - How to make a simple animated GIF with free software
Learn how to make a simple animated GIF using a still image and free in-browser tools in a few easy-to-understand steps.
DigitalNZ - how to make an animated GIF from a stereograph
Learn how to make a simple stereoscopic GIF using a still image and free in-browser tools in a few easy-to-understand steps.
DigitalNZ - how to make an animated GIF using GIMP software
GIMP (GNU Manipulation Program) is an image and graphics editor, and it is available for Linux, Mac OS X, and Windows.
Europeana's tips for all types of GIF-making
The Europeana website has helpful tutorials about making an animated GIF.