3 Ways to Put Cinemagraphs to Work in the Classroom


Cinemagraphs are living photos; an exciting new medium that blends photo and video together in mesmerizing ways. Composed like a photo and brought to life with a subtle hint of looping motion, cinemagraphs are used by photographers and marketers to capture attention, tell new visual stories, and drive results.

Exploring traditional photographic processes and understanding how the medium has evolved since its earliest stages is key to photography education. Even so, we now live in a world where there’s an app for everything and anyone with a smartphone can take a decent photograph. Support for analog photography has dramatically declined in recent years and aspiring photographers may never experience the darkroom process. With this in mind, teachers need to equip students with skills that will help them succeed in a world of digital storytelling.

More and more, visual storytellers are encouraged to share content in the way people tend to consume it. Many career fields intersect with one another and there are a growing number of opportunities for those wanting to work in the creative space. For example, talented photographers and graphic designers will often pursue careers in brand communications, social media, and digital advertising. It’s these types of creative storytellers around the world who are exploring visual applications that combine still photography and video.

cinemagraph by NightflareCreative

3 Ways to Use Cinemagraphs in Your Classroom

Course Units
Teaching students about the future of photography is just as important as teaching them about the history of photography. Visual storytelling is no longer limited to static images; in fact, the world is watching more video than ever before. Cinemagraphs combine the principles of photography with video and can be applied to a growing number of visual applications. You can create cinemagraph courses that explore:

  • How cinemagraphs fit in the digital landscape of visual storytelling
  • Where students can use cinemagraphs in the modern, #trending workplace
  • Techniques and different cinemagraph styles such as portrait, landscape, and double exposure

cinemagraph by mohabig

Extra-Curriculars
Clubs provide opportunities for students to participate in activities, interact with peers, and build self-confidence. They also allow students to explore diverse interests and learn skills that will benefit their personal and professional development. Introducing cinemagraphs to your school’s digital media clubs will give students the opportunity to create eye-catching content guaranteed to impress for events, digital yearbooks, online resources, and more.

Community Engagement
Capturing attention is a challenge for many community coordinators. It’s important to explore new communication forms and take advantage of new technologies to connect and engage with your community. Whether you’re celebrating your school’s accomplishments or making announcements about an event or fundraising initiative, cinemagraphs can tell engaging stories that will make your event stand out and increase awareness. Add cinemagraphs to your social media posts, websites, and e-mail newsletters to show off your school’s programs, talent, and diversity.

cinemagraph by uniofnottingham

How Flixel Can Help

You can easily create cinemagraphs by using a digital camera, tripod, and Cinemagraph Pro for macOS or iOS. We offer educational discounts along with resources that educators and students can use to kickstart their cinemagraph journey.

If your school doesn’t have access to any Mac computers or iPads, some students likely own iPhones. Cinemagraph Pro for iOS and macOS offer the same powerful features that allow creators to produce professional quality in minutes. We understand that resources are limited and suggest that students form groups to experience the entire creation process from concept to capture to post. Contact us if you have any questions!

Tags:cinemagraphsEducationMarketing CurriculumPhotography BusinessPhotography SchoolSchoolVideo Marketing

(Customer Success Leader)

Vikki works with customers to develop best practices and advocate for their needs. She’s a problem-solver who shares content to educate and inspire with a smile that’s often covered in lipstick.