How Do You Purchase a Snapchat Filter? A Comprehensive Guide

So, you want to spice up your Snapchat game with a custom filter? Excellent choice! Purchasing a Snapchat filter is surprisingly straightforward and can add a touch of flair to any event, promotion, or personal celebration. You can purchase Snapchat filters directly through the Snapchat website or the Snapchat app, depending on whether you’re creating a personal or business filter. The process involves designing your filter, setting your desired geofence (the area where the filter will be available), choosing the duration you want it to run, and then paying for it. Let’s dive into the specifics, shall we?

Creating Your Snapchat Filter: A Step-by-Step Guide

Personal Filters for that Extra Spark

Creating a personal Snapchat filter is all about adding a unique touch to your special moments. Think birthdays, weddings, graduations – the possibilities are endless! Here’s how you get started:

1. Head to the Snapchat Website: Navigate to Snapchat’s dedicated filter creation page through a web browser. This is the more convenient option for personal filters.
2. Choose Your Design: Snapchat offers a range of pre-designed templates that you can customize. Alternatively, if you’re feeling creative, you can upload your own design. Make sure your design meets Snapchat’s guidelines – resolution, file size, and content are all crucial. We’re talking transparent PNGs, folks!
3. Define Your Geofence: This is where you choose the area where your filter will be available. You can draw a custom shape on the map or use pre-defined areas. Think about where your event will be taking place and ensure the geofence accurately covers it. Larger areas will naturally cost more.
4. Set the Duration: Select the start and end times for your filter. You can choose a single day, a few hours, or even a longer period, depending on your needs. Shorter durations are, unsurprisingly, cheaper.
5. Review and Pay: Once you’re happy with your design, geofence, and duration, review your order carefully. Then, proceed to payment using a valid credit card or debit card.

Business Filters for Maximum Impact

Business filters take things up a notch, allowing you to promote your brand, event, or product to a wider audience. The process is similar, but with a few key differences, often accessed through the Snapchat Ads Manager within the app or on the web:

1. Access the Snapchat Ads Manager: Log into your Snapchat Ads Manager account. If you don’t have one, you’ll need to create one first.
2. Create a New Campaign: Select “New Campaign” and choose your campaign objective (e.g., Brand Awareness, Traffic).
3. Choose “Filters” as Your Ad Format: Within the campaign settings, select “Filters” as your ad format. This will guide you through the filter creation process.
4. Design and Customize: Similar to personal filters, you can use Snapchat’s templates or upload your own custom design. Ensure your design is eye-catching and relevant to your brand.
5. Target Your Audience: With business filters, you have more advanced targeting options. You can target based on demographics, interests, location, and more. This helps ensure your filter reaches the right people.
6. Set Your Budget and Schedule: Define your budget and the duration you want your filter to run. Snapchat will provide estimates based on your targeting and geofence.
7. Review and Submit: Carefully review all the details of your filter, targeting, budget, and schedule. Once you’re satisfied, submit your filter for review. Snapchat will review your filter to ensure it meets their advertising guidelines.
8. Monitor Performance: After your filter is live, track its performance in the Snapchat Ads Manager. You can see metrics like impressions, uses, and swipe-ups.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions people have when purchasing Snapchat filters:

1. How Much Does a Snapchat Filter Cost?

The cost of a Snapchat filter varies depending on several factors, including the size of the geofence, the duration the filter runs, and the level of targeting you choose. A small, local filter for a few hours might cost as little as $5-$10, while a larger, more targeted filter running for several days could cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

2. Can I Edit My Filter After Purchasing It?

Unfortunately, you cannot edit your filter once it has been submitted and approved by Snapchat. So, double-check everything carefully before submitting!

3. What Are the Design Requirements for Snapchat Filters?

Snapchat filters must be in PNG format with a transparent background. The recommended dimensions are 1080×1920 pixels, and the file size should be less than 300KB. Avoid covering too much of the screen to ensure users can still see their Snaps clearly.

4. How Long Does It Take for Snapchat to Approve My Filter?

Snapchat typically approves filters within 24 hours, but it can sometimes take longer, especially during peak periods or for business filters that require more extensive review. It’s always best to submit your filter well in advance of your event.

5. What Payment Methods Does Snapchat Accept?

Snapchat generally accepts major credit cards and debit cards. They may also support other payment methods depending on your region.

6. Can I Get a Refund if My Filter Is Not Approved?

If your filter is not approved by Snapchat, you will typically receive a refund. However, if your filter is approved and runs as scheduled, you will not be eligible for a refund.

7. How Do I Track the Performance of My Snapchat Filter?

You can track the performance of your Snapchat filter through the Snapchat Ads Manager. You’ll have access to metrics like impressions (how many times your filter was seen), uses (how many times it was used in Snaps), and swipe-ups (how many people swiped up on Snaps with your filter).

8. Can I Use My Snapchat Filter for Commercial Purposes?

Yes, you can use Snapchat filters for commercial purposes by creating a business filter through the Snapchat Ads Manager. This allows you to promote your brand, products, or services to a targeted audience.

9. Is There a Minimum or Maximum Duration for Snapchat Filters?

Yes, there are minimum and maximum durations for Snapchat filters. The minimum duration is typically around one hour, while the maximum duration can vary depending on your location and filter type.

10. What Happens if My Filter Violates Snapchat’s Guidelines?

If your filter violates Snapchat’s guidelines, it will not be approved, and you may receive a warning or suspension from the platform. Make sure to familiarize yourself with Snapchat’s advertising policies before creating your filter.

11. Can I Create a Filter That Covers the Entire Screen?

No, Snapchat does not allow filters that cover the entire screen. Filters should be designed to enhance Snaps without obstructing the user’s view. Aim for creative designs that leave ample space for the Snap content itself.

12. Can I target users based on specific interests or behaviors with a Snapchat Filter?

Absolutely! When creating business filters through the Snapchat Ads Manager, you have robust targeting options. This includes targeting users based on demographics (age, gender, location), interests (sports, fashion, music), and even behaviors (recent purchases, app usage). This allows for a very granular and effective approach to reaching your desired audience.

So there you have it – a comprehensive guide to purchasing and utilizing Snapchat filters. Whether you’re celebrating a personal milestone or boosting your brand visibility, a well-designed filter can make all the difference. Happy Snapping!