Creating engaging Snapchat Geofilters for events can enhance the experience of attendees and extend the reach of your brand through user-generated content. Geofilters allow users to overlay customized graphics on their snaps when they are within a specified geographic area. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create effective and engaging Snapchat Geofilters for events:
1. Plan Your Geofilter Concept
Before designing, consider the purpose of your Geofilter and how it aligns with your event:
- Event Theme: Ensure your Geofilter reflects the theme, purpose, or atmosphere of your event (e.g., corporate, festive, casual).
- Target Audience: Understand who will be attending. Tailor the design and messaging to resonate with your specific audience demographic.
- Key Elements: Decide what essential elements should be included, such as logos, event names, hashtags, or specific graphics that represent the event.
2. Design the Geofilter
Once you have a concept, it’s time to design your Geofilter. Here are some design tips to create an engaging filter:
- Use the Right Dimensions: Snapchat Geofilters should be designed in a 1080 x 1920 pixels format (vertical orientation). The file should be in PNG format with a transparent background to ensure your design layers seamlessly over snaps.
- Keep It Simple: Geofilters are viewed quickly, so focus on a clear and straightforward design. Avoid cluttering the filter with too much text or imagery.
- Incorporate Branding: Add your logo and brand colors to maintain consistency with your overall branding. Make sure your brand is subtle yet noticeable.
- Highlight Event Details: Include essential event information (name, date, location) in a way that compliments the visual elements without overwhelming the design.
- Consider Typography: Use easily readable fonts in sizes that stand out against various backgrounds that users might select. Bold, sans-serif fonts are generally preferable for legibility.
- Add Creative Graphics: Use whimsical or thematic graphics that relate to the event, such as icons, patterns, or illustrations that enhance the visual appeal.
3. Ensure Compliance with Snapchat’s Guidelines
Make sure your Geofilter design complies with Snapchat’s submission guidelines:
- Original Content: Ensure your designs are original and do not infringe on copyrighted material.
- No Watermarks: Avoid using watermarks or logos of other platforms like social media networks.
- Appropriate Content: Ensure that the content is family-friendly and suitable for all audiences as per Snapchat’s community guidelines.
4. Choose a Geofence Area
After designing the Geofilter, the next step involves defining the geofence:
- Set the Appropriate Size: Decide the area where the Geofilter will be available. It could be the venue of the event or a larger area if you want to tap into a wider audience.
- Map Coverage: Use the Snapchat map to draw the geofenced area. You can create a rectangular or custom polygon shape around the event location.
- Consider Peak Times: If your event is in a busy area, ensure that your geofence isn’t too large, to avoid unintended users outside your target audience.
5. Submit Your Geofilter
Once everything is ready, it’s time to submit your Geofilter:
- Use Snapchat’s Create Your Own Tool: Go to the Snapchat website or app to submit your Geofilter. Choose the option to “Create Your Own” and upload your design.
- Select Dates and Times: Specify the start and end times for when your Geofilter will be live. Ensure that it covers the duration of your event.
- Payment: Review pricing based on the size of your geofence and the duration. Payment is required to finalize the submission.
6. Promote Your Geofilter
To maximize use, promote your Geofilter before and during the event:
- Social Media Announcements: Use your social media channels to inform attendees that a Geofilter will be available. Highlight its design and usage instructions.
- Event Marketing Materials: Include mentions of the Geofilter on event flyers, posters, or websites to raise awareness.
- Competitions or Incentives: Run contests encouraging attendees to use the Geofilter on their snaps. Offer prizes for the best snaps or most creative uses of the filter.
7. Engage with the Geofilter during the Event
To further encourage engagement:
- Signage at the Event: Place signs with instructions nearby, reminding people to use the Geofilter while snapping.
- Create a Hashtag: Develop a unique event-specific hashtag that attendees can use alongside the Geofilter, making it easier to find their posts and share them on other platforms.
8. Review and Analyze Performance
After the event, review its success:
- Track Usage: Snapchat provides metrics like the number of Swipes (how many users used the Geofilter) and potentially Snaps generated.
- Gather Feedback: Encourage attendees to share their thoughts on the Geofilter and its design. Use this feedback to improve future Geofilters.
Conclusion
Creating engaging Snapchat Geofilters for events can significantly enhance the attendee experience and promote your brand. By carefully planning, designing with clear branding, and promoting effectively, you can encourage users to utilize your Geofilter, increasing visibility and interaction with your brand. Remember to keep your audience and their experience at the forefront of your design and strategy for the best results