Import Existing GIF Into Your Timeline

To import an existing GIF into your Timeline:

– Find and download a GIF from Internet with a transparent background (or make your own)

– Open/drag your GIF into Photoshop

– Open timeline window (you will probably start with frame animation).  Make all additions to timing between frames now.

– Convert the frame timeline to a video timeline. You should see multiple layers within the timeline window to match the layer window

– Select all your layers

– Right-click and click “Convert to Smart Object.”  If done correctly, your layers should all have become one object.

– You are now free to manipulate the GIF in your Timeline and Transform, etc. You can drag, resize, mask, and use other effects.

You can also create a GIF animation from a series of photos or from a video clip.