What really surprised me about animated gifs is the amazing work of the creative duo Jamie Beck/Kevin Burg. Together in their studio in Manhattan, Ann Street Studio, they created a new form of medium called Cinemagraph, a simple way to "allowing a moment to live forever". I'd say fresh and romantic, amazing combo.
Here some examples of their art.
& check out From me to you to find more about them and what they love to do.