Understanding how TikTok processes media formats prevents accidental conversions before publishing. The table below outlines the core technical distinctions between interactive photo mode and standard video slideshows.
| Technical Feature | Photo Mode (Swipeable) | Video Mode (Auto-Play) |
|---|---|---|
| Asset Limit | Up to 35 images | Timeline bounded (up to 10 minutes) |
| Viewer Interaction | Manual horizontal swipe control | Passive viewing with pause/scrub bar |
| Audio Handling | Continuous looping background sound | Synced to video timeline durations |
| Pacing Control | Controlled entirely by viewer dwell time | Fixed 2.5, 3.0 second auto-progression |
| Visual Effects | Individual text stickers, per-slide filters | Keyframed photo transitions and effects |
