Step 2: Preparing the Image
   
Creating an animated GIF in Photoshop is a fairly simple process. You can create as simple or complicated of an image as you want. You are only held as far as your imagination will go. Here are some helpful hints to prepare your image for animation.
  1. Try to keep the overall size to a minimum. Quality is better than quantity.
  2. You can use any combination of premade images or images that you make yourself.
  3. Utilize layers to position each image in the exact order and position you want them. Be sure to include all images in the appropriate location in your initial image.
  4. Remember your intended audience! Use colors, layout, image quality etc that will be compatible with your target audience.
  5. You can use all of the filters and effects that Photoshop offers. Mix and match to create interesting effects.
  6. Dont be afraid of trying something. Experiment and have fun.
   
Below is a sample image that I created. I positioned all of the paw prints to give a look that they were walking. Click the image below to view the animated version.
   
pawprint image link to animated pawprints
 
red arrow logo link to step 1  Step 1
Step 3  red arrow image link to step 3