Here's how to create your own Snapchat geofilter

Snapchat geofilters, the location-based graphics that you can place over your photo, are a fun way to spice up your pictures and let your friends known exactly where you're snapping from.

But did you know some of them are made by users? Here's how you can submit your own geofilter design to Snapchat.

In case you're not familiar with Snapchat, here's an example of a geofilter. This filter one pops up when I send Snapchats from the Tech Insider office in Manhattan. 

Here's how to submit your own geofilter designs to Snapchat.  

You'll need to use Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop to create your design. Snapchat has specific templates for each program. Click here to download them.

Your submissions should be saved as web-optimized, transparent PNG files. Make sure each design is 1080 pixels wide and 1920 pixels high. Files should also be under 300KB. 

Check out this chart from Snapchat for more details about the specifics of your design.

Click here when you're ready to submit your design. First, you'll have to create a geofence for it. A geofence designates the area where you want the filter to be available. Use Snapchat's map tool to create your fence. 

Next, upload your PNG file by clicking the large plus sign in the upper right-hand side of the screen. 

Once your image is uploaded, you'll need to provide some basic information, including your name and email address. You'll also have to explain "why is this location meaningful to you."

After you've answered Snapchat's questions, you're ready to hit submit. If your design is accepted, Snapchat will email you to let you know. 

Snapchat has strict rules about geofilters, so it's important to do your research if you want your design to be accepted. Filters for specific businesses are not allowed. Neither are designs that block too much of the screen. When designing your filter, Snapchat recommends picking a "location where people are likely to gather and send Snaps."

If you're thinking about submitting your own geofilter, be sure to check out Reddit. There are tons of threads devoted to tips and tricks for designing the perfect filter. You can even post your design ideas to get feedback from other designers. 

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