A Guide on Using TikTok Slideshows

Published on 01.05.2026 by Chizoba T

While TikTok is popular for its short-form video content, it offers more than that. In 2022, the platform introduced Photo Mode, which lets users turn multiple images into a slideshow. The feature allows users to upload, share, and edit multiple images in a single post.

The post formats are a good break from the so-common short-video format in the feed. It can, therefore, be a good option when you want to leverage carousel posts across different social media platforms. In this article, we will guide you on using the TikTok Swipeable posts to take your brand to the next level.

What are TikTok Slideshows?

TikTok slideshows enable users to upload multiple images in a single post in a sequence. Users can then customize them into text overlays, transitions, music, sounds, and filters to make them more engaging. A slideshow can consist of one or more photos with the transitions controlled by a timer. Viewers can either watch slideshows play automatically or swipe through them, depending on the format. This is a good content format for social media lead generation.

Why Add Slideshows to Your TikTok Marketing

A TikTok slideshow can be an intuitive tool for telling your brand story, without having to shoot or edit a single video frame. Rather than relying on short-form video content, which can be quite expensive and time-consuming, you can use slideshows to repurpose your content into lifestyle images, customer reviews, and product photos. For instance, if you are a fashion brand launching a summer collection, you can use TikTok slideshows featuring UGC, editorial shots, and flat lays. You can then add trending music.

While short-form videos are the most popular on TikTok, statistics indicate that slideshows can offer higher engagement, especially if your brand needs faster, real-time engagement. As compared to the traditional shot-form content on TikTok, slideshows can perform better for several reasons, such as:

  • Easy to make. When creating a TikTok video, you need to shoot a video and edit it. That raises the need for cameras, lighting equipment, editing software, and more. On the other hand, you don't need to create a slideshow; you just need to add a sequence of images.
  • Faster load time. If a user has a slow internet connection, TikTok slideshows tend to load faster than video content.
  • Mobile-friendly. When watching slideshows, users have more control, getting an opportunity to tap and even swipe at their own pace.
  • Great for content repurposing. If you have image photos, such as customer UGC, lifestyle, and product photos that performed well on other social media platforms, you can repurpose them into slideshows.

Content Formats to Consider For TikTok Slideshows

If you are wondering how to use TikTok slideshows, here are some top ideas to consider:

  • Before and after images. It can be a good choice for interior design companies and beauty brands.
  • Customer photos. For instance, a homeware store can walk customers through styling tips while using the real images of their customers. It can help you do social selling in an inbound way.
  • Upcoming product launch threads. For instance, if you are a jewelry brand, you can create hype around an upcoming product launch on TikTok Shopping.
  • Step-by-step guides. For instance, a cake brand can showcase visuals of their recipes or images of the baking process.

Swipeable vs. Non-swipeable Slideshows

Creators on TikTok can create either swipeable or non-swipeable slideshows. Each of these formats offers users a better viewing experience. Therefore, brands need to understand when to use each format to offer users a better viewing experience.

Swipeable slideshows let users swipe or tap through images at their own pace, giving them more control over how long each slide stays on screen. This offers viewers a higher level of interaction, and this format can be a good choice for:

  • Creating a step-by-step guide. For instance, how to apply makeup.
  • Product lookbooks or catalogs. This can be used for home decor, fashion, or gift guides.
  • Before-and-after. A good option for fitness brands, interior design, and beauty.

The now swipeable slideshows work like videos, with images moving automatically every few seconds, providing users with a more passive viewing experience that feels like traditional TikTok videos. This can be a great choice for:

  • Brand storytelling. Sharing your brand story, such as how it started from scratch.
  • Moodboard content format.  Enhance the vibe with relevant music and visuals.
  • Prompts and announcements. For instance, Valentine offers new collections.
  • Behind-the-scenes content. It can be especially when combined with trending audio.

TikTok Swipeable Post Trends to Watch

Trends are huge on TikTok, and you need to keep tracking what is working and what isn't. Here are some top TikTok swipeable trends to watch:

  • Photo dumps of screens of memes. Creators can use swipeable posts to share screenshots of their favorite moments. This strategy makes them feel real and increases authenticity.
  • Step-by-step guide. This is a common format used by the food, beauty, and lifestyle industry. It involves presenting the steps in a slideshow format, showing the audience only the necessary details without overwhelming them.
  • Story teasers. This involves using a story teaser such as “You won't believe what he did next”. Your audience will be thirsty for the tea. You can then deliver it in 5 slides.
  • Emotional storytelling. This is often in faceless emotional storytelling, where the creator’s story isn't even visible. When creating such a story, the creator starts with a hook, adds suspense in the middle, and includes a satisfying end. It is a good strategy for product placement.

Final Thoughts

TikTok slideshows offer viewers something to stick around for. Since they look forward to the next slide, they will not mind swiping in case of swipeable slide shows. That probably explains why these content formats have one of the highest engagement rates. Additionally, they can be a good choice for breaking the monotony of the so-common short video formats and helping your brand stay ahead of the competition. Therefore, we use the tips outlined above to make the most of the TikTok slideshows.