Hosting an event? Want to add an interactive digital element? A Snapchat filter for an event is a fantastic way to engage guests, boost brand visibility, and create memorable moments. Whether you’re organizing a wedding, a corporate function, or a festival, Snapchat filters offer a creative and shareable branding opportunity. With over 347 million daily active users on Snapchat, businesses and event planners are tapping into the app’s potential. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process to create a Snapchat filter, ensuring it aligns with your brand and engages attendees.
Why Use a Snapchat Filter for an Event?
Boost Event Engagement
A Snapchat filter encourages guests to share their experience in real-time, making your event more interactive and social-media-friendly.
Increase Brand Visibility
When guests use your filter, their followers see it, giving your brand wider exposure beyond the event attendees.
Make Memories Last
Unlike regular photos, Snapchat filters add a unique branding element, making event photos more memorable.
Affordable and Easy to Set Up
Compared to traditional event promotions, Snapchat filters are cost-effective and easy to create with a few simple steps.
Step 1: Determine Your Event Goals
Before designing your filter, define its purpose. Ask yourself:
- Do you want to promote your brand?
- Are you aiming for audience engagement?
- Is the filter for a wedding, birthday, or business event?
- What message or theme should it convey?
Clearly outlining your goals helps ensure your filter resonates with your audience.
Step 2: Design Your Snapchat Filter
1. Use Snapchat’s Online Tool
Snapchat offers a built-in filter creation tool that is beginner-friendly.
- Visit Snapchat’s Create Your Own Filter page.
- Choose “Filters” and select an appropriate template.
- Customize with text, colors, and graphics.
2. Design in Photoshop or Canva
For a unique filter, use Canva, Adobe Photoshop, or Illustrator.
- Image size: 1080 x 2340 pixels (PNG format, transparent background).
- Keep the design minimalistic to avoid obstructing faces.
- Include your event logo, name, or hashtag.
3. Follow Snapchat’s Guidelines
Snapchat has specific filter submission rules:
- No URLs, phone numbers, or personal social media handles.
- Must be visually appealing and non-offensive.
- No copyrighted material unless you own the rights.
Explore: Accept Friend on Snapchat Meaning
Step 3: Set Up Your Geofilter Location
What is a Geofilter?
A Geofilter is a location-based Snapchat filter that only appears within a specific area.
How to Set Up the Geofence
- On Snapchat’s Create Your Own Filter tool, select a geographic area where your filter will be available.
- The larger the area, the higher the cost.
- Ensure your geofence covers your entire event venue.
For private events, keep the geofence small to control accessibility.
Step 4: Submit and Pay for Your Filter
Snapchat charges based on area size and duration.
- Pricing: Starts at $5 for 20,000 square feet per hour.
- Payments are made via credit card or business billing accounts.
- Approval takes 1 to 24 hours, so submit early.
Once approved, your Snapchat filter goes live at the scheduled time and location.
Step 5: Promote Your Snapchat Filter
To maximize engagement, encourage guests to use and share the filter:
- Announce it on social media before the event.
- Place signage at the venue reminding attendees to use the filter.
- Incentivize use by running a contest (e.g., “Best Snap wins a prize!”).
- Encourage influencers and VIP guests to share snaps with your filter.
Snapchat Filter Design Tips
- Use bold colors to grab attention.
- Keep text minimal to avoid clutter.
- Ensure the logo placement does not obstruct faces.
- Choose a transparent background for a professional look.
- Test visibility by previewing it on a mobile screen.
Case Study: Successful Event Filters
1. Coachella Festival
Coachella’s Snapchat filters enhanced the festival experience by offering custom designs for each stage.
2. Weddings
Many couples now create personalized wedding filters featuring the couple’s names and wedding dates.
3. Corporate Conferences
Companies like Nike and Red Bull have leveraged Snapchat filters to promote branding at trade shows.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Cluttered designs: Keep the filter clean and minimal.
- Choosing an inappropriate geofence: Set the right coverage area.
- Ignoring Snapchat’s guidelines: Follow the terms to avoid rejection.
- Submitting too late: Apply at least 24 hours before the event.
FAQs
How much does a Snapchat filter cost?
The cost varies based on location size and duration, starting at $5 per 20,000 square feet.
How long does Snapchat take to approve a filter?
Approval can take 1 to 24 hours, so submit early.
Can I use a Snapchat filter for free?
Snapchat’s free filters are available for public events, but custom filters require payment.
Can I edit my filter after submission?
Once submitted, filters cannot be edited, so double-check details before submitting.
How do I track the performance of my Snapchat filter?
Use Snapchat Insights to see engagement metrics such as filter usage and impressions.
Conclusion
Creating a Snapchat filter for an event is a powerful way to engage attendees, promote branding, and make moments more interactive. By following this step-by-step guide, you can design an eye-catching filter that leaves a lasting impression.
Whether you’re hosting a corporate event, wedding, or festival, a Snapchat filter enhances the social sharing experience. Start designing today and make your event unforgettable!