Types of Content on Snapchat: A Guide to What You Can Share

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Snapchat, known for its real-time, short-lived content, has evolved into a major platform for communication, storytelling, and brand engagement. While it started as a way to send disappearing photos and videos, Snapchat now offers a diverse range of content types that cater to individuals, creators, and businesses alike.

1. Snaps (Photos and Videos)

The foundation of Snapchat, Snaps are photos or short videos (up to 60 seconds split into 10-second chunks) that can be sent directly to friends or added to your Story. These can include filters, text overlays, drawings, and AR lenses to enhance creativity.

Ideal for:

• Sharing daily moments

• Behind-the-scenes clips

• Quick updates or shoutouts

2. Stories

Stories allow users to post Snaps that are viewable for 24 hours. You can post multiple Snaps in sequence to create a narrative. This is a popular format for influencers and brands to keep their audience updated throughout the day.

Ideal for:

• Daily vlogs

• Event coverage

• Tutorials or step-by-step guides

3. Spotlight

Spotlight is Snapchat’s TikTok-style feature, showcasing vertical videos from users across the platform. Content here can go viral and reach millions, especially when it’s entertaining, creative, or engaging.

Ideal for:

• Comedy skits

• Challenges

• Viral trends and performances

4. Snap Map

Snap Map lets users see where their friends are and explore content posted publicly in specific locations. Users can contribute to the map by submitting Snaps to “Our Story.”

Ideal for:

• Local events

• Travel content

• Real-time experiences from different places

5. Memories

Memories is Snapchat’s storage feature where users can save and revisit past Snaps and Stories. You can reshare them, edit them, or use them in new content.

Ideal for:

• Sharing flashbacks

• Repurposing old content

• Creating montages

6. Discover

Discover is Snapchat’s curated content section featuring content from publishers, influencers, and verified creators. It includes everything from news and entertainment to lifestyle and DIY videos.

Ideal for:

• Media outlets and brands

• Long-form content series

• Sponsored content and ads

7. Lenses and Filters

These AR-enhanced tools allow users to modify their appearance, add effects, or overlay themed graphics on their Snaps. Brands can create custom filters and lenses for marketing campaigns.

Ideal for:

• Engaging interactive content

• Branded AR experiences

• Holiday or event-themed content

8. Private Stories and Custom Stories

Private Stories let users control who sees what they post, while Custom Stories allow groups of friends to contribute to the same Story, perfect for collaborative events.

Ideal for:

• Close friends or family sharing

• Group events like birthdays or trips

• Team or project-based updates

Snapchat is no longer just a platform for quick disappearing messages, it’s now a multi-format ecosystem where personal, creative, and branded content thrives. Understanding the different types of content on Snapchat can help you better connect with your audience and maximize your impact.