GIFs are old, weird, and beloved. If a platform demands GIF, convert to GIF.
Single JPG → GIF
Just wraps the pixel data in GIF container format. Note: GIF supports only 256 colors, so photos will look degraded. For photos, prefer PNG or JPG.
Multiple JPGs → Animated GIF
Drop 10 JPGs, set frame duration (50–500ms), pick loop count. We assemble the animation.
When GIF is right
- Simple graphics (icons, logos)
- Low-color illustrations
- Animation on platforms that don't support MP4/WebP
- Retro aesthetic
When GIF is wrong
- Photos (WebP or JPG is 10× smaller)
- Video clips (use MP4)
- Modern websites (WebP animation is better)
Frame timing tips
- 50–100ms — fast animation
- 200ms — standard
- 500ms+ — slideshow
- 1000ms+ — very slow slideshow