Out of the flood of different social media platforms we’ve seen in the last 15+ years, there are certain ones that stand out.
Facebook is a big favorite! You can keep up with friends and family, join groups of interest, and re-connect with long-lost pals. About 7 in 10 U.S. adults use Facebook daily.
Another popular social media app is Instagram. This one has less text and more images and videos. People often use it to unwind, follow their favorite celebrities, and get quick tips on crafts and recipes.
For those that like to keep up with the latest headlines and trending topics, there’s Twitter… the global mini-conversation platform.
One of the newest social media services to catch on big time is TikTok. This app is all about videos and it has become quite popular among all age groups, including seniors.
You’ve most likely heard TikTok mentioned by a family member or on a news or talk show at some time. In this article, I’ll give you a step-by-step guide on TikTok and how to get started using the platform.
What Is TikTok Used For?
The draw of TikTok is that it allows you to create short videos and put them to music at the click of a few buttons.
The clips are entertaining and not so long that you have to invest a lot of time into each one. They’re easy for anyone to make and all the editing can be done right inside the app.
Steps for Getting Going On TikTok
Create Your Account
TikTok is designed to be used as an app for your mobile device. So, you’ll first need to download the app from either the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
TikTok App from Apple’s App Store
TikTok App from Google Play
Next, tap “Profile” on the bottom right, (has a person icon) and choose a method to sign up for an account.
You can sign up a few different ways:
Enter your mobile number or email and create an account; or
Use one of your existing accounts to log in with, including
Facebook
Apple
Google
Twitter
Edit Your Profile
If you want to add a profile picture, tap the Profile icon (looks like a person) in the bottom right.
Then, tap Edit Profile and Change Photo or Change Video.
You can choose to take a photo or upload a photo from your phone’s photo library.
Learn the Bottom Navigation
At the very bottom of the TikTok home page, you’ll have a navigation menu.
Here are the options:
Home: Takes you back to the main screen that you started on. If you get lost, going to Home can help you get reoriented.
Discover: Lets you search out videos and people. Just tap the magnifying glass and put in a keyword. If you like a certain celebrity, brand, or self-help guru, search for the name in the box at the top. Then click “follow” to follow their account.
Plus Sign: The plus sign is what you tap when you want to create and post a new video to your TikTok account for others to see. (I’ll get into that shortly)
Inbox: You can get any new activity notifications and direct messages here. Activity notifications would be if someone clicks “like” on one of your videos or follows your account. Like other social media platforms, TikTok allows you to message others directly. Your inbox will show you any direct messages (also called DMs).
Me: Is where you get to your profile information, such as your profile picture and other account settings.
How to Post a Video
Click the Plus Sign at the center bottom of the app’s screen to post a new video. This will open your camera (note, you may need to grant permissions).
Look for the “Flip” icon at the top right to turn the camera to face you.
You’ll see a list of options on the right of the screen under the Flip button. These are:
Speed: Speed up your video or slow it down for a slow-motion effect.
Beauty: Want to get rid of a few wrinkles? Click the Beauty option and the AI (Artificial Intelligence) in the app will work its magic.
Filters: This allows you to change the coloring of the video.
Timer: You can film hands-free by setting this timer.
Flash: Adds light when you need it.
At the top of the screen, look for the music notes and tap Add a Sound to grab some music you’d like to add to your video. Lots of people will move or dance in the video according to the music playing.
The last fun thing you can try is Effects, which is on the bottom left of the screen. This puts those weird noses and eyelashes on people – as well as lots of other crazy stuff.
Use these first, before you begin recording. You’ll be able to see what they look like on your camera preview.
To record, click the red button at the bottom of the screen.
*You have to hold the button down the whole time unless you used that timer option.
Once, you’re done recording, follow the screen prompts to add text to your video post if you want (similar to Instagram & Facebook), and then post the video on your feed.
Get Tutoring on Using TikTok Or Another Social App
Would you like a fun tutoring session where I can show you how to set up and use TikTok or another social media app? CompuTara can help you with friendly personalized service!
Schedule a tutoring session today! Call or text me at: 862-368-4893 or Email me here.
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