Photoshop is known for its ability to manipulate photographs, but did you know that you can create animated images or gifs as well?
In this tutorial, we take you through all the detailed steps to accomplish this feat. If you prefer to watch the video you can view it here. It's less than 10 minutes long and will be a great visual.
For the readers... let's get started!
Create a Basic Template
First, you'll want to create a basic template to get you started. If you are doing a search bar effect you'll need one thing:
A rectangle shape to imitate a search bar
For extra fun, you can add a "search" icon (it's just a magnifying glass) and some fun branded graphics like we created below.
If you just want the effect you can easily do it on a plain background.
Add Text Layer
Time to add that text layer. Make sure you right-align the text. Then you'll choose the size and color that best fits your design. We used a 12pt font here. Our image was 1080 x1080 pixels. Type in the full phrase you want to use. Position the phrase exactly how you want it to appear.
Open up Timeline Window
This can actually be done at a later point, but to stay consistent with the video we put out we'll keep it here. You'll find the Timeline under Windows and then scroll down to Timeline. In the bottom right of the frame thumbnail, you'll change the frame rate to .2 seconds.
If this is too slow or too fast for you, feel free to adjust the timing as you see fit.
Duplicate Layers
First, you'll want to count the number of characters in your phrase, including the spaces. You'll use that number to create copies of the text layer. Copy the layer by using Ctrl + J (Command + J on Mac).
Hide Layers
After generating the necessary number of layers, you'll hide all the text layers except for the very top one.
Creating the Frames
To create the first frame you'll delete all the letters from the text layer with the exception of the first letter. Then hit the plus sign on the timeline to add a frame. After adding the frame, hide that first layer and unhide the next.
You will then delete all the letters except for the second letter. Then add a frame. You'll continue in this manner until you've completed the phrase. Don't forget to add a frame for the spaces as well.
Preview the Video
To preview the video, go to the Timeline window and scroll all the way to the left. Make sure the first frame is highlighted and click the play button (right-facing triangle). View the video to check that all the frames are correct and that the speed works for what you want. Adjust as needed.
Export as a GIF
To export the gif, you'll go to File --> Export --> Save For Web (Legacy). It will bring you to a window with a lot to look at. What you want to pay attention to is the bottom right corner. Double-check your image size and the looping. We set the looping to "Forever" so that the video is continuous but you can choose differently. There are options for it playing only once or you can specify the number of times you'd like it to play.
We look forward to seeing what you create! Don't forget to tag us in your social media posts so that we can see what you've made.
If they are other tutorials you'd like to see let us know!