Anime-style selfies are taking over social media feeds, and the AI Manga Filter is leading the way on TikTok. With over 155.3 million videos already made using this filter effect on TikTok, a simple photo filter has become something much bigger.
So, what's the hype all about? This filter uses clever AI to transform your face into a manga-inspired masterpiece, complete with dramatic eyes, bold shading, and that signature anime flair. In this article, we will share with you the top tools you can use to create the AI-Manga effect and how to use them to create your own anime videos and pictures.
@cintiatan Replying to @Marci #JadiAnime ♬ 可愛くてごめん (feat. かぴ) - HoneyWorks
In this article
Part 1. Top Apps to Create Photos/Videos with AI Manga Filter
We'll start by introducing you to AI tools you can use to create the manga filter. Now, not every tool does the same thing. Some focus on editing videos, others focus on portraits, while a few go the extra mile with fashion-styled filters. Below are three top picks, each offering something special.
1. Filmora – Best for Anime Video Editing and Effects
Wondershare Filmora has established itself as a very effective video creation and editing software. And with its "Image to Video" AI feature, you can animate still pictures instantly and customize them by adding music, cool transitions, and effects that make your anime creation pop.

The app offers AI-powered tools like motion tracking and background removal, making video editing smooth. Filmora's interface is simple and clean, and it works on smartphones and computers, which gives you more flexibility.
Key Features:
- Image-to-video animation
- 100+ trending animation templates
- Custom animation options
- Works on desktop and mobile
2. Fotor – Best for AI Manga Photo Filters and Portraits
Fotor is another fast and simple app, perfect for creating anime portraits. With just one upload, the AI adds big eyes, soft shadows, and bright colors to your photo, making it look like it came out of a real manga comic.

What's great about Fotor is how quickly everything happens. You don't need to adjust any settings. The AI takes care of it all. This makes Fotor a good pick for beginners or anyone who wants instant results.
Key Features:
- One-click anime photo effect
- Classic manga art style
- Works online and on mobile
- Great for beginners and quick edits
3. ZMO AI – Best for Fashion and Aesthetic Anime Looks
While other tools focus on simple filters, ZMO AI goes a step further by giving your photos a soft, dreamy, fashion-inspired anime look. This tool adds cool poses, beautiful backgrounds, and trendy lighting that feels straight out of an art magazine or an Instagram aesthetic post. Everything is designed to make your anime version look polished and modern.

Overall, ZMO AI is perfect for people who want their anime portraits to look creative, stylish, and ready to share.
Key Features:
- Trendy and fashion-forward anime styles
- Dreamy backgrounds and soft lighting
- Simple and clean user interface
- Great for social media posts and art lovers
Part 2: How to Turn Photos into Anime with AI Manga Filters on Filmora
Since we've shown you the tools you can use to create the manga AI filter and join the TikTok trend. The next thing is to show you how to use these tools. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to turn your photos into anime with an AI effect on Filmora:
Step1Open Filmora and Access the "Image to Video" Tool
Install Filmora on your device if you haven't and launch it.
Click the "Image to Video" icon on the home screen or via the Toolbox menu.

Step2Pick a Template and Upload Your Photo
Browse through Animation templates like "slow Japanese", "wind chaser", or "virtual hunk."
Click on the one you prefer to preview it.

Step3Upload Your Photo and Generate Video
Click Upload Image and choose a photo that shows your face.
Set the image orientation and click Submit > Generate, and Filmora will turn your photo into a video with the AI Manga filter effect within a few seconds.

Step4Edit and Export Your Video
Drag your generated video to the timeline where you can make extra edits like adding music or sound effects, inserting texts, motion stickers, etc.
Once you are satisfied with your edits, hit the Export button to save your video to your device.

The result:

Part 3: How to Create the Manga Filter Effect Online
If you just want a quick and easy anime photo with the manga filter effect without installing any app, both Fotor and ZMO AI offer online tools. Here's how you can use them:
Using Fotor
Visit the Fotor website, access the AI Image Creator tool, and click on the AI Manga Filter option.
Click on "Upload Image" to upload your photo. Make sure you choose a clear selfie where your face is visible.

Once your photo is uploaded to the dashboard, hit the "Generate" button.
You'll see multiple anime-style results. Pick the one you like best and click Download to save your favorite to your device.

The result:

Using ZMO AI
Visit ZMO AI and access the Anime Character Generator tool.
Click Upload Image and select a photo from your device.
Choose a filter style like "Anime Colorful" or "Mooncute Girl" and click Create.

The result:

Conclusion
The AI Manga Filter trend is here to stay, and now you know exactly how to join the fun. These tools help bring your imagination to life in just a few clicks. So go ahead, try them out, share your creations online, and be part of the viral manga magic. Don't forget to bookmark this guide and send it to your friends who love anime-style content too.