> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://daisychain.gitbook.io/help/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://daisychain.gitbook.io/help/texting/sending-out-mms-messages.md). # Sending out MMS messages In Daisychain, you can use MMS messages to send out images, videos, and long text-only messages. ### **What is an MMS?** MMS stands for "Multimedia Messaging Service," and it is used to send more complicated messages than SMS messages. MMS messages in Daisychain can include images, videos, and/or up to 1,600 characters of text. ### **How do I send out an MMS message?** There are two ways to send MMS messages in Daisychain: #### **Adding several SMS segments worth of text** If you send a long text in Daisychain which uses multiple SMS segments, we will automatically convert that message to an MMS if it is more cost-effective for you. #### **Adding Pictures or Videos** In the message composition window, click the image icon and select your image or video file.
When you select a video, Daisychain prepares it for delivery automatically, and then it attaches to your message just like an image. See [Video](#video) below for ideas and tips. *** ### Other questions #### **How big can my image file be?** Your image file should be 500kb or less. If you need to resize your image, you can try using an online tool like [Image Resizer](https://imageresizer.com/). #### **What dimensions should I use?** In order to keep the file size small and the image easily viewable on a mobile phone, we generally recommend: * Make your images square * Making your image no more than 500px wide #### **Any other tips?** * **Don't Use Transparent Backgrounds:** These can appear as solid, randomly-colored backgrounds in the message thread, causing the image to look different than intended. * **Consider using Charms and GIFs:** engaging, personalized content may get a better response than just text or a stock photo. * **Use High Color Contrast:** Make sure the foreground and background colors are clearly different to prevent the image from appearing blurry or monochromatic. * **Don't Use Borders:** On some iOS devices, borders may be displayed off-center. *** ### Video Video plays right in the text thread, so supporters watch it without tapping a link or opening a browser. That makes a text a good way to put your best content in front of the people who already know you. #### **What can I use video for?** * **Your TV or digital ad:** you've already paid to make it. A standard 30-second spot fits, so you can send it straight to supporters, volunteers and donors — and ask them to share it. * **A message from the candidate or a leader:** a personal thank-you after a donation, a GOTV reminder, or an invitation to an event lands differently when it's someone's face and voice. * **Volunteer recruitment and training:** show what a canvass or phone bank actually looks like before asking someone to sign up. * **Event recaps:** a few seconds from a rally or community meeting brings the energy to people who couldn't be there. #### **Can people text videos back?** Yes — video goes both ways. When someone replies with a video (or a photo), it shows up in the conversation in your inbox and you can play it right there. Ask supporters to reply with a short clip about why they're involved, and you've got a stream of real testimonials to learn from and, with their permission, share. #### **What kind of video can I send?** Your video can be up to **30 seconds** long and up to **150MB**, in any common video format. You don't need to resize or convert anything: Daisychain automatically prepares your video so mobile carriers will deliver it, and you'll see a brief "Compressing video…" indicator while that happens. Carriers limit how large a text message can be, so videos are delivered at phone-friendly quality rather than the full resolution you uploaded. A few things help your video look its best on a phone: * **Feature people and voices.** Someone speaking to camera, or a narrated ad, comes through clearly. * **Keep on-screen text big.** Large, bold captions stay readable; fine print and small graphics may not. * **Favor steady shots.** Fast cuts and quick motion are harder to compress than calmer footage. * **Put the key message up front.** Lead with your ask in the first few seconds, and repeat it in the text of the message.