Snapchat users can now design their own filters for special events, such as birthday parties, or for their businesses. To start, users can design the filter using their favorite image editor. The company is providing templates that are compatible with both Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator to help its users get started. After designing the filter, the image must be submitted through the company’s new online portal.
Previously, Snapchat’s geofilters were only available for well-known places, such as colleges, cities, and neighborhoods. Filters are seen when swiping left on an image or video while the user is in an accurate location. This specialized filter will appear next to the neighborhood filter and the sponsored brand-of-the-day filter.
As soon as the image is uploaded, users can begin to map out where the filter will appear, with a minimum size of 20,000 square feet. The day and time for the filter’s availability can be customized to one’s liking, but it requires at least 30 minutes of existing time. Once the information is entered, Snapchat will have to approve the content, although the site does not specify the criteria the filter needs to meet for approval.
Snapchat’s on-demand filters are currently available in the U.S., U.K., and Canada, starting at $5. Prices can increase depending on a few factors, such as the size of the geo-fence and how long the filter will be available. The custom filters can stay live for up to 30 days, suitable for any marketing campaign or weeklong events.
