Adding GIFs to Google Slides
11 minutes read
Get animated in Google’s browser-based presentation tool using GIF images. Learn how to add a GIF to Google Slides in this tutorial.
When you work in Google Slides, you’re looking for ways to make your presentations more interesting. Using a GIF is a great option! Let’s learn how to add GIFs to Google Slides designs and do just that.
If you know how to put a GIF in Google Slides, you can command attention with more engaging slides. Let’s learn in this tutorial how to insert a GIF into Google Slides (your own or even one you download.)
Add a GIF to Google Slides (Quickstart Video)
Do you want to add a GIF to your Google Slides presentation right now? We’ve got you covered. The video below will give you a head start.
For even more details on using GIFs in Google Slides, study the written tutorial below:
What Is a GIF? (And Why Should You Add One?)
A GIF is an image file that contains simple animations. Chances are, you’ve encountered them featuring funny photos or memes. Keep in mind that a GIF isn’t a video but a moving photo. They can use actual images, or they may feature cartoon-style animations.
GIFs are becoming increasingly popular, partly due to their presence on social media to share humorous messages. They’re also valuable teaching tools - you can share ideas with a GIF in creative visual ways.
Can you insert a GIF into Google Slides? Absolutely. It’s a quick and easy process that you’ll use every time you need to make a winning slide deck. Let’s get started.
How to Add a GIF to Google Slides Designs
Adding GIFs in Google Slides is easy and enhances visual appeal. The perfect way to share GIFs in Google Slides is to pair them with a premium template from Envato Elements. With thousands of Google Slides presentation templates to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect option.
In this tutorial, we’ll be working with the VIGO - Google Slides Template from Elements. This one includes over 100 modern slides, all ready to edit. Download the template to follow along.
Let’s work on slide #4 in the VIGO premium Google Slides template. This slide features some custom text and two images but could use a bit more visual interest. Why not add a GIF to it?
Envato Elements also has a large library of GIF designs. In our example, we’ll use the clipboard GIF included in the Flat Animated Icons pack. It’s one of several stylish designs included in the icon collection.
Let’s learn how to insert a GIF into Google Slides using these two digital assets from Envato Elements.
1. Find the GIF on Your Computer
The first step is to find a GIF for Google Slides that you want to insert. You can import the GIF directly onto your slides. Make sure you’re working on the slide where you want to add a GIF. Again, we’ll use slide #4 in the VIGO Google Slides template deck here.
On the menu bar at the top of Google Slides, click on the Insert drop-down. You’ll see a list of options appear, with a wide array of media sources to choose from. The one you need is right at the top: Image. Hover your cursor over Image, and you’ll see additional choices. Click on Upload from Computer.
A file browser launches. Navigate to a GIF file stored on your computer, such as the Clipboard.gif file downloaded from the Flat Animated Icons pack. You’re ready to learn how to add a GIF to Google Slides!
2. Insert a GIF Into a Google Slides Presentation Design
To add your GIF, click on the GIF file that you want to upload. In this example, it’s Clipboard.gif. Click Upload and in moments, Google Slides inserts the GIF onto your slide.
You’ve just learned how to add a GIF to Google Slides decks! It’s amazingly easy. But your creative options don’t stop here.
3. Edit the GIF Design in Google Slides
With the GIF added, you can see it playing on your slide. You have many choices available now to edit the GIF’s design. For example, you can move it into a new position on the slide. Click and drag the GIF to place it in a new position.
The blue squares around the border of the selected GIF are handles that you can pull to resize the GIF image. Click and hold one, then pull with your cursor to make the GIF larger or smaller to fit perfectly onto your slide.
Even more creative control is available in the Format Options menu, which appears when you’ve selected the GIF. Click on Format Options, and a sidebar will open on the right. Three of the available options are especially useful when working with a GIF in Google Slides.
In the Size & Rotation group, you can enter the exact dimensions for the GIF. You can lock the aspect ratio if desired to avoid distorting the shape and size of the image. You can also rotate the GIF by specifying an angle of rotation or with a single click to rotate to 90 degrees or flip the illustration.
In the Position group, you can precisely control where the GIF appears on the slide. You can add measurements and control whether they’re relative to the center or the top left of the slide.
Finally, the Recolor group provides fun style control over the colors of your GIF. On the Recolor drop-down, you’ll see many new color designs. Click on one, and you’ll see the new hues apply instantly to your selected GIF.
Just like that, you’ve learned how to insert a GIF into Google Slides. As you can see, it only takes a few clicks! Use a premium template and pair it with Google Slides’ powerful features for perfect results.
How to Add a GIF from a URL
Previously, we learned how to add a GIF to Google Slides by uploading an image. But there’s a second way to add GIFs, allowing you to use your favorite GIF images from around the web.
Caution: Before using any images that you find online, check the usage rights to make sure the image is available for reuse.
Google Slides offers the ability to add GIFs from a URL. This is a key advantage, as you can capture a source link for a GIF and insert it seamlessly, without needing a GIF file saved on your computer. This is especially useful if you’re a brand with an online database of marketing content.
1. Launch the Insert Menu
Inserting GIFs into Google Slides with a URL is easy and similar to uploading a GIF image file.
Begin by going to the Insert tab on Google Slides’ menu. Click Insert, and from the list of options hover over Image. Then, from the menu that appears, choose By URL.
2. Paste a URL
When you click Insert > Image > By URL, the Insert Image popup launches. You can paste a web link to a GIF of your choice in the center box.
Find a GIF URL, paste it into the box, and Google Slides will analyze the page you’re linking to and identify the GIF. When finished, the GIF image will appear in the preview box on the Insert Image menu.
3. Insert a GIF
Once you’ve previewed the GIF, you’re ready to add it to your Google Slides deck. Click Insert Image in the lower right corner of the Insert Image popup.
That’s it! Just like that, the GIF appears on your slide. From here, you can repeat the earlier steps of editing and moving the GIF around the slide.
You just learned how to embed a GIF in Google Slides using a URL. It’s an easy, versatile way to add your favorite GIF images to your Google Slides decks. Give it a try today!
5 Ideas/Tips for GIFs in Google Slides Presentation
You’ve seen how to add GIFs to Google Slides designs. With this skill, you’ll find yourself adding GIFs to every Google Slides presentation that you build! To ensure success, it’s beneficial to embrace these five ideas and tips:
1. Don’t Overuse
A GIF for Google Slides is a fun, powerful way to enhance slides. However, be cautious about overusing GIFs. Too many moving images on a slide can create a messy, cluttered layout that distracts your audience and disrupts the flow of your presentation.
Avoid using more than one GIF on a slide and try not to use GIFs on every slide. This preserves their effect without overuse.
2. Be Deliberate
Be intentional with your GIF usage. Ensure that any GIF you use is relevant to the subject matter. A GIF should pair well with surrounding content and fit neatly into place, rather than acting as a random design element.
3. Use GIFs to Highlight Key Points
Using GIFs to call attention to key points helps avoid distraction. An animated pen or marker highlight is a perfect way to direct your audience’s focus towards specific details.
Using GIFs to emphasize content ensures your audience stays focused on your big ideas while adding a fun and creative touch.
4. Reduce Words With GIFs
GIFs can help declutter your slides. Often, you can replace text elements with a GIF. For instance, a checklist GIF can replace an explanation of a checklist.
As a general rule, avoid overly wordy slides, as they can be confusing. Use GIFs in place of text when possible.
5. Animate GIFs for Extra Effect
Want your GIF to pack even more visual appeal? Try animating it. While GIFs play automatically, you can control how and when they appear on your slide.
With an animation applied to a GIF, you can trigger its appearance by clicking. This enhances the impact of the GIF.
Learn more about Google Slides animation options below:
How to Use GIFs in Your Presentation
GIFs for Google Slides can serve many purposes. When you know how to put a GIF in Google Slides, you can:
- Lighten the mood with a funny image.
- Share instructional steps by showing certain steps using GIFs.
- Call attention to key details by placing an animated GIF arrow on your slide.
The benefits of adding GIFs are numerous. When you learn how to insert a GIF into Google Slides, you’ll find yourself exploring new avenues of presentation creativity.
GIF FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Want to add a GIF to Google Slides? You may have a few questions about GIFs and how they work. Here are answers to five of the most common GIF questions to help you get started.
1. How Do I Make a GIF?
GIFs are easy to create. If you want to see how to insert a GIF into Google Slides, creating your own can be beneficial. Adobe Photoshop is one of the best ways to build graphics for inserting GIFs into Google Slides.
2. Do GIFs Work With PowerPoint?
Yes! If you prefer PowerPoint over Google Slides, adding GIFs is just as easy.
3. Can I Make GIF Files Smaller?
Yes, it’s important to know how to optimize GIFs for size. The last thing you want are large GIF files slowing down your presentations.
4. Are GIFs Useful Marketing Tools?
Absolutely! Knowing how to put a GIF in Google Slides is a valuable skill. GIFs create more engaging slides and help drive engagement in email marketing.
5. How Can I Make a GIF From a Video?
If you have videos, you can share scenes from them in GIF form. Use Photoshop (or other online tools) to capture a GIF from a video scene and drop it into Google Slides using the steps you’ve learned.
The Top Source for Engaging Google Slides Templates (With Unlimited Use)
As a creative, Envato Elements is your best friend. It’s the top source for stunning premium Google Slides templates. For a flat monthly rate, you get unlimited downloads of all of these templates, plus fonts, music, stock photos, and more.
Explore Envato Elements!
Elements is the best value for creatives in 2024. You can unlock unlimited creative potential thanks to the templates and digital assets included in your subscription. You’ll also have access to GIF images that are perfect for Google Slides.
When you use Google Slides templates from Elements, you’ll enjoy benefits like:
- Premium styling crafted by creative experts.
- Easy-to-edit layouts with text and image placeholders.
- Design inspirations with pre-built slide layouts.
As you can see, Elements is a creative powerhouse that you can’t afford to miss out on. Browse the vast library and join today!
You Just Learned How to Insert a GIF in Google Slides
Longing for motion in your presentation? You now know how to put a GIF in Google Slides to bring excitement.
Here’s a challenge for you: open your last presentation, then add a GIF for Google Slides to it. With the skills you’ve learned, your presentation will surely be one of your best ever.