How to Make a Cartoon Video in Photoshop? [Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners]

How to Make a Cartoon Video in Photoshop?: Cartoon videos are always in demand on YouTube, Instagram, and in the animation industry. If you’re a beginner and don’t want to use expensive animation software, you can still create cartoon animations directly in Adobe Photoshop.

In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll show you how to make a simple cartoon video in Photoshop using characters and PSD backgrounds.

Step 1: Create a New Project in Photoshop

Open Photoshop → Go to File > New.
Set the resolution to 1920×1080 (HD).
Choose a white or transparent background.

Step 2: Import Your Character and Background

Drag and drop your cartoon character (PNG/PSD) into the workspace.
Add a PSD background layer (e.g., classroom, police station, park).
Organize them into separate layers.

Step 3: Split the Character into Parts

Separate arms, legs, face, and body into different layers.
This allows you to move each part individually for animation.

Step 4: Open the Timeline Panel

Go to Window > Timeline.
Choose Create Frame Animation.
Each frame will represent a small movement of your character.

Step 5: Animate Your Character

Move character parts slightly in each frame (arms up, legs forward, etc.).
Duplicate frames to make movements smoother.
Set frame duration (0.2 sec per frame is good for beginners).

Step 6: Export Your Cartoon Video

Go to File > Export > Render Video to save as MP4.
Or use Save for Web (Legacy) → choose GIF.
Use your animation in YouTube videos, Reels, or school projects.

Tips for Better Animation

Use ready-made PSD backgrounds and characters from Tooncart.in.
Start with simple movements (walking, waving, blinking).
More layers and frames = smoother animation.

Make a Cartoon Video in Photoshop (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make a cartoon video in Photoshop?

Ans: Yes, Photoshop allows you to create frame-by-frame animations to make simple cartoon videos.

Q2: Do I need any prior experience?

Ans: Basic knowledge of Photoshop tools is helpful, but beginners can follow step-by-step tutorials.

Q3: How do I animate characters?

Ans: Split your character into separate layers for each moving part, then use the Timeline panel to create frame-by-frame animation.

Q4: Can I add backgrounds and effects?

Ans: Yes, you can add background layers, apply filters, and use layer styles to enhance your cartoon video.

Q5: Is Photoshop better than other animation software?

Ans: Photoshop is great for simple frame-by-frame animations, but software like After Effects or Toon Boom is better for advanced cartoon videos.

Conclusion-

Adobe Photoshop isn’t just for photo editing — it’s also a powerful tool for basic cartoon animations. With a character and background, you can create engaging videos for YouTube, Instagram, and your personal projects.