How to Play Videos Backwards in Reverse on TikTok App

I have over 5 years of experience creating fun and engaging videos on TikTok. In this article, I will provide a step-by-step guide on how to play videos backwards in reverse on the TikTok app, along with some creative ideas to help make your reversed videos stand out.

Why Play Videos in Reverse on TikTok?

Playing videos backwards in reverse is a popular TikTok trend that allows creators to put a unique spin on their content. Here are some of the main reasons you may want to reverse a video on TikTok:

  • It’s an easy way to create something new and interesting – Simply reversing a video can give it a whole new look and feel without much effort on your part. This makes it a great option if you’re feeling uninspired but still want to post engaging content.
  • It works well with certain types of videos – Videos with a lot of motion like dancing, sports skills, water/smoke effects, etc. look particularly cool in reverse. The reversed movement captivates viewers.
  • You can participate in viral trends – Occasionally TikTok trends will emerge that specifically utilize reversed videos, like the “Reverse Challenge Effect” and “Backwards Word Challenge”. Reversing a video allows you to hop on these trends.
  • It grabs viewers’ attention – Human brains inherently pay more attention to unusual and unexpected sights. A video playing in reverse qualifies and can help your content stand out in someone’s feed.

Step-by-Step Guide to Reversing a TikTok Video

Reversing a video using TikTok’s built-in editing tools takes just a few taps. Here is the process:

  1. Open the TikTok app and tap the plus (+) icon to go to the camera.
  2. Either record a new video by pressing and holding the red button, or select a pre-recorded video from your camera roll to upload.
    • For best results, choose a video with clear motion, like someone dancing or walking.
  3. Once your video is selected, tap on “Effects” at the bottom right of the screen (it looks like a clock icon).
  4. In the menu that pops up, swipe right until you reach the “Time” effects.
  5. Tap on “Reverse” to preview your now reversed video clip!
  6. If you like how it looks reversed, tap “Save” at the top right to add the effect and save the changes.

And that’s all there is to it! Now your reversed TikTok is ready to post for the world to enjoy.

Creative Ideas for Reversed TikTok Videos

Playing any video in reverse can be interesting, but some creative concepts can take your reversed TikToks to the next level:

  • Backwards challenges – Challenge yourself or friends to say phrases backwards that you then reverse in editing to see if viewers can understand what you’re saying.
  • Transition tricks – Record yourself in one state, cut the video, then record the “after” state in reverse. When reversed, it will look like a seamless transition.
  • Reverse POV – Record from a first-person point of view, then reverse it to create an disorienting effect for viewers.
  • Mirrored dance – Perform a dance, reverse the video, then play it side-by-side with the original version. The mirrored movement is visually satisfying.
  • Visual effects – Reverse smoke, glitter, ink in water, or other drippy/flowy visuals for an interesting abstract effect.
  • Object destruction – Record breaking glass, tearing paper, popping balloons, etc. in reverse to make it look like the object is magically reforming.

The key is choosing a video concept where motion and transition are central components, so the reversed playback has maximum impact. Get creative with your scene and subject matter!

Extra Tips for Reversed TikToks

Keep these tips in mind as you create your own reversed videos:

  • Add music, stickers, filters and text captions after applying the reverse effect, since those elements won’t play backwards themselves.
  • Splice together reversed and non-reversed clips for additional variety.
  • Use on-screen text to explain what viewers are seeing, especially if it’s abstract.
  • Reverse small sections of longer videos rather than the full clip to highlight specific moments.
  • Film objects or scenes where start and end states are clearly different for maximum “wow” factor upon reversal.

Conclusion

Playing videos backwards in reverse on TikTok is an easy editing trick that can result in captivating video content. Choose scenes with clear motion that look interesting in reverse, and get creative about displaying transitions and visual effects backwards. With just a tap in the TikTok app, you can put a whole new spin on your videos that helps them stand out.

Try out some reversed videos on your TikTok channel and see which concepts resonate best with your audience! Take advantage of this popular feature to produce eye-catching content.