Create an Instagram Story That Stands Out Online

Instagram Stories have revolutionized the way we connect with our audience, offering a unique blend of creativity and authenticity that traditional posts often lack. Whether you’re a small brand looking to increase online visibility, an influencer aiming to grow your following, or just someone who wants to share moments in a fun and intriguing way, knowing how to create an Instagram story that stands out is essential.

Instagram Stories are a powerful tool for online businesses, offering a cost-effective way to reach a broad audience and drive engagement. Small businesses and startups with a low-budget marketing profile can leverage Instagram stories to make a deeper sense of connections with target audience, promote their products and services and refine marketing strategies based on audience behavior, contributing to a sustainable growth and success.

“Over 200 million Instagram users visit at least one business profile every day”, confirms Forbes.

Therefore, understanding dynamics of social media marketing in different industries is significant for online businesses of all sizes to capitalize online opportunities. From how to create an Instagram story to leveraging the insider tips and tricks, this guide will help you understand this segment of the platform. 

Let’s dive in and turn your Instagram story game from ordinary to extraordinary. Let’s start by knowing the limits of Instagram stories.

What are Instagram Story Limits?

IG story length is a maximum of 15 seconds per slide. However, you can now post uninterrupted videos of up to 60 seconds. Still, marketers and content creators often need more time to capture their audience’s attention or deliver in-depth content. Luckily, Instagram provides several features to help you extend your Instagram story video length.

How to Create an Instagram Story? 

It isn’t rocket science to create an Instagram story. It’s quite a straightforward process that you can do with just a few steps. Here’s how to get started:

Step 1: Open the Instagram app and tap on your profile picture or the “+” icon at the top left corner of your screen. This will open the camera, allowing you to begin creating your story.

Step 2: You have three options for creating content: take a photo, record a video, or upload media from your camera roll by choosing the phone gallery option at the left button corner. 

If you want to add more creativity and depth to your Story, you can also add multiple photos to Instagram stories. This allows you to showcase a series of images in one seamless flow, making your content more engaging.

Step 3: You can keep your story longer than 24 hours if you add it in a highlight. You simply open the story and select the “Highlight” option below and create a new highlight or add the story into an existing highlight. 

Starting your Instagram Story is as easy as that, but the key to making it engaging lies in what comes next.

How to Add Multiple Photos to Instagram Story?

Follow the steps below on how to add multiple pictures to Instagram story:

1. Open Instagram on your Android device.

2. Go to “Your Story” in the upper-right corner of your screen.

3. Take a photo, upload one, or choose a color for your background.

4. Tap the “Sticker” icon at the top of your screen.

5. Go down and select the “Photo” tool.

6. Choose the photo you want to add to your Story.

7. Tap on it to change its shape.

8. Change its position by holding it and dragging it across the screen.

9. Pinch the photo to make it larger or smaller.

10. Repeat the same steps for any other photo you want to add.

11. When you’re done, tap on the “Your Story” bubble in the bottom-left corner of your screen.

You can technically add as many pictures as you want. Just be sure to position them in a way that makes them all visible.

How to Use Instagram Story Features?

To create an Instagram story that resonates with your audience, make sure to understand and utilize the various features Instagram offers. These tools can enhance your content, making it more engaging and visually appealing:

Filters 

Instagram provides a range of filters that you can apply by swiping left or right on your photo or video. These filters can set the mood and tone of your Story, helping it align with your brand’s aesthetic.

Text

Adding text to your Story is simple—just tap the “Aa” icon. Customize the font, size, and color to match your brand’s style. Use text to convey messages, add context, or highlight key information.

Background Customization

Enhancing your Story further can be done by adjusting the background color, allowing your content to stand out even more. Below in the blog, you’ll also learn how to easily change the background color on Instagram Story to make your visuals truly pop.

Stickers

The sticker icon opens up a world of interactive elements, including location tags, hashtags, mentions, GIFs, and more. Stickers are a great way to make your account story more interactive and fun.

Drawing Tools 

Tap the squiggly line icon to access drawing tools. You can draw on your account story using different brush types and colors, adding a personalized touch to your content.

Music

Adding music to instagram story can elevate your Story by setting the tone and creating a mood that resonates with your audience. To learn how to easily add music to your Story,  keep reading on!

These features not only make your stories more visually appealing but also encourage your audience to interact, which is crucial for increasing engagement. 

How To Add Music To Instagram Story?

Adding music to an Instagram story is one of the most searched questions on Google, and we are here to help you understand. So, without any further ado, let us add music directly from Instagram. Whether you have an iPhone or Android, the process of inputting music will remain the same unless your application is updated. Below mentioned are the steps you must follow to add music. 

• Click on your Instagram account, and open the “me” page. Then, tap the “+” sign you see near your profile picture to add a story.

• Move to either clicking a picture or picking the old ones from your gallery that you want to see as a story. 
• After selecting a video or an image, tap the sticker icon on the top of your screen.
• Move to the “MUSIC” sticker. 

• Now search for the song you want your story to showcase. Once you get done finding it, tap on it. 
• Now from any song, you can choose the paragraph of your choice. You have to move the slider bar to decide which part you want to get played. You must know that it can play solely for 15 seconds. 

• You can even change the album icon or replace it with the lyrics simply by tapping on the thumbnail. 
• Once you choose the album icon or lyrics, tap on “done.” 
• You can move the album icon anywhere on the screen; you can even increase or decrease its size simply by stretching the thumbnail according to your need. 
• Finally, click on “your story” at the bottom left corner to post it on your Instagram. If you don’t want all your followers to see it, you can click on the “close friends” option. 

How to Create an Instagram Story with Interactive Elements?

Interactive elements are a powerful way to engage your audience and encourage participation, favoring the Ig algorithm to promote your content. When you create an Instagram story, consider incorporating the following interactive stickers:

Polls and Quizzes 

These tools allow you to ask your audience questions and get real-time feedback. They’re perfect for gauging interest in products, gathering opinions, or simply having fun with your followers.

Questions Sticker

This feature invites your followers to ask questions or share their thoughts, sparking conversations that can lead to deeper engagement. It’s a great way to generate Instagram story ideas and build a stronger connection with your audience.

Countdown Sticker

Use this sticker to build anticipation for events, product launches, or special announcements. The countdown timer creates a sense of urgency and excitement among your followers. These tools allow you to use Instagram for business.

By adding these interactive elements, you can transform passive viewers into active participants, which not only increases your story’s visibility but also fosters a more engaged community.

How to Create a Consistent Story Aesthetic?

A consistent aesthetic is key to making your Instagram stories memorable and recognizable. Here’s how to create an Instagram story that aligns with your brand’s visual identity:

1. Consistent Color Palette: Stick to a few colors that are part of your brand’s identity. This consistency helps create a cohesive look across all your business account stories, making them instantly recognizable to your followers.
2. Use of Templates: Apps like Canva or Unfold offer Instagram story templates that can save time and help maintain a consistent style. Templates are especially useful for businesses that want to ensure their stories look polished and professional.
3. Fonts and Text Placement: Use similar fonts and place text consistently across all your stories. This not only creates a uniform look but also reinforces your brand’s identity.

Maintaining a consistent aesthetic helps build brand recognition and keeps your audience coming back for more, making it easier for you to launch your brand on social media.

How To Change Background Color on Instagram Story

Changing the background color on an Instagram Story is a quick way to match your aesthetic or make text stand out. Whether you’re posting a fresh story or reposting someone else’s, the process is slightly different depending on the content type.

Instagram Story: Change Background Color Without Covering Video

If you want to change the background color on an Instagram story without covering the photo or video, you need first to upload a background color. 

Follow the steps to know how to do that:

• Go to your Instagram Story and open it.
• Take a photo at random. Add color to the backdrop.
• To save the image, press the “Arrow” button at the top of your screen. To delete your story, press “x.”

• Swipe up on your screen or press the “Camera Roll” button to add your colorful image to your tale.
• Select “sticker” from the drop-down menu.
• Place your finger on the “Photo” sticker.
• Select your photo or video.

Done! Your image or video will be shown above the background color.

Change Your Instagram Story Background to a Solid Color

There are quick & easy ways to change background color on Instagram story to a solid color.

Follow these steps: 

• Upload photo from the camera roll.
• Click on the “pen” tool.
• Choose from the preset color options or use the color dropper tool to select your own color.
• Keep your finger on the pen tool.
• Press and hold the center of your background for a long time.

How to Change Background when Reposting Instagram Story?

Thinking about how to change Instagram repost story background? Do not worry, we have got you covered!

Reposting someone else’s story (when you’ve been tagged) uses a default background, but you can still tweak it and change background on Instagram story repost:

• Tap Add to Your Story on the shared post
• Tap the pen tool (top right corner)
• Choose your desired color
• Hold anywhere on the screen until the background fills with that color
• If the original post is still visible, you’ve only changed the area around it
• You can also use the dropper tool to match a color from the image for a more cohesive look

How to Add Video in Instagram Story?

Video content is inherently more engaging than static images, and Instagram stories are the perfect platform for sharing short, impactful videos. If you’re wondering how to add a video to Instagram Story, here’s a quick guide on creating one.

Types of videos you can upload:

Short Clips 

Record short video clips that provide behind-the-scenes insights, tutorials, or product demonstrations. These clips can make your story more compelling.

Boomerangs 

Boomerangs are looping video clips that add a playful and fun element to your story. They’re perfect for capturing moments that are full of energy and movement.

Reels

Sharing your Instagram Reels to your story is an excellent way to drive more views and engagement. Reels are longer, more produced videos that can add depth and variety to your Story content.

When incorporating video, ensure that your content is clear, concise, and aligned with your brand’s message. Remember, Stories are only 15 seconds long, so make every moment count.

How to Upload a Video to Instagram Story from Your Camera Roll

If you are a beginner then you might have a question in your mind “How do I add a video to Instagram story?”.

Here’s how:

1. Open Instagram and tap on your profile picture in the top left to open your Story. If you’re already in the app, look for the camera icon in the top left corner.

2. Swipe up or tap on the little gallery icon at the bottom left of your screen. This pulls up all the videos and photos in your camera roll.

3. Select your video, and Instagram will load it into the story editor. Here, you can trim it down if it’s a bit long or even split it into multiple clips if it’s more than 60 seconds—Instagram will do that automatically.

4. Once your video is loaded, you can add filters, text, stickers, or music to make it pop.

Need inspiration? Check out these story ideas to get some creative juices flowing.

5. When everything looks good, tap “Your Story” at the bottom of the screen to post it for all to see!

Now, you’re ready to share that killer Instagram video from your camera roll.

A great Instagram video deserves the perfect words—check out Instagram captions to make your posts more engaging and memorable!

How to Record a Video Directly in the Instagram App

Sometimes, the best stories happen in real time, and you want to capture the moment right then and there.

Here’s how to record a video directly in Instagram for those instant, live-feel videos:

1. Open Instagram and tap your profile picture (top left corner) or the camera icon to jump right into Stories mode.

2. You’ll see a white capture button at the bottom of the screen. Tap and hold it to record a video clip. Instagram Stories can record clips up to 60 seconds each, so if you need a bit more time, just keep holding down and Instagram will split it into multiple clips for you. Super easy!

3. Once you’ve recorded, swipe through to add filters, text, and stickers. Want a quick hack? Add some music by tapping the sticker icon and selecting the music sticker. It’ll make your video feel polished without even trying!

4. Happy with your recording? Hit the “Your Story” button to share it.

That’s it! Recording directly in the app lets you capture the moment, add a bit of flair, and share it in seconds.

How to Make Instagram Stories Longer?

Here are the best methods to post longer videos or multiple Instagram story videos seamlessly:

1. Use Native Instagram Features

• Instagram Reels: Reels allow users to post up to 90-second videos. If your Instagram story needs more time, create a Reel that blends into your IG stories. Users can tap the “Continue Watching” option to see the full video.
• Carousel Stories: Break up your content into multiple Instagram story slides. You can upload several photos or video segments, each playing in sequence, to create a more immersive experience.

2. Use Apps to Split Videos

Sometimes, you want to upload longer videos without editing them into multiple clips manually. Third-party apps can split your long video into 15-second segments perfect for IG Stories.

• Record or edit your video in the app.
• Let the Instagram app automatically divide it into 15-second clips.
• Upload the segments in order to your Instagram story.

This ensures your audience sees a seamless flow of your Instagram story video.

3. Record and Post in Batches

Instagram automatically splits videos longer than 15 seconds when you record directly using the story Camera. Don’t forget to learn how to create an Instagram story that stands out.

4. Tease Long Videos on Stories

For videos longer than what IG Stories allow, upload a teaser clip to your Instagram story and direct viewers to the full video on your profile, or another platform like Facebook and YouTube. Easily add a video to your Instagram story.

What does Repost Story Mean on Instagram?

Reposting Instagram Stories is a useful feature that allows you to share someone else’s Story on your own account, enhancing content collaboration and audience engagement. Reposting Stories is a great way to share user-generated content, collaborate with other accounts, and keep your feed engaging. It also helps build community and mutual promotion among users​.

How to Repost Instagram Stories (When You’re Tagged)

If someone tags you in their Story, Instagram makes it easy to repost:

1. Open your DM inbox
2. Tap the message that says “Mentioned you in their story”
3. Tap “Add to Your Story”
4. Edit it if you like (text, stickers, GIFs, etc.)
5. Tap “Your Story” to share

Reposting a Story Without a Tag (Manual Method)

If you’re not tagged but still want to reshare someone’s Story:

• Ask the person to send you the story as a file or post
• Screenshot or screen-record the Story
• Upload it manually to your own Story
• Make sure to credit the original poster

Instagram only allows official resharing if you’re tagged—anything else needs to be done manually.

The Best Times to Post Instagram Story Matters

The best time to post on instagram can significantly impact the reach and effectiveness of your Instagram stories. Here’s how to create an Instagram story that reaches your audience at the optimal time:

• Analyze Your Insights: If you have a business account, use Instagram Insights to determine when your followers are most active. This data can help you schedule your Stories for maximum impact.
• Frequency: While it’s important to post regularly, avoid overwhelming your audience with too many Stories at once. Find a balance that keeps your content fresh without becoming intrusive.
• Experiment: Trying different posting times will help you identify the best schedule for reaching your audience and maximizing engagement.

How to Use Analytics to Create an Instagram Story?

After posting your Instagram story, it’s important to monitor its performance to understand what works and what doesn’t. Here’s how to use analytics to create an Instagram story that resonates with your audience:

• Views: Track how many people viewed your Story to gauge its reach.
• Interactions: Monitor how many people engaged with your stickers, swiped up on links, or sent you messages in response to your Story.
• Navigation: Pay attention to how many people tapped forward to the next Story, swiped away, or exited altogether. This can give you insights into how engaging your content is.

Using this data, you can refine your approach and create content that better resonates with your audience, ultimately leading to higher engagement and improved results. You can also use leading social media analytics tools to have a deep understanding of your online growth.

Best Practices for Posting Instagram Stories

Instagram Stories are quick, casual, and made to grab attention fast. But if you’re trying to keep your content clean, on-brand, and engaging, a few thoughtful choices can go a long way.

1. Keep It Short and Sharp

• Stick within the Instagram Story length limit—15 seconds per slide, up to 60 seconds in total.
• Break longer content into shorter clips using Instagram’s built-in split feature.
• Use motion, captions, or GIFs early on to catch attention within the first few seconds.

2. Use Backgrounds That Match Your Style

• Want a bold look? Go with a solid background color or block color using the pen option or highlighter.
• To give it a smooth look, try a gradient background using color fades or third-party tools.
• For depth, layer an image underneath and add a color tint using the eraser icon for transparency tricks.

3. Layout and Customization

• When you open Instagram Stories, decide whether to add media or build from scratch.
• Use the “choose media” option from your gallery to control the visuals.
• Place stickers, text, and images thoughtfully to avoid cluttering the entire screen.
• Tap the magnifying glass icon in the sticker or GIF search to find something specific and on-theme.

4. Keep Branding Consistent

• Stick with your regular color on your Instagram—whether that’s pastel tones, neon, or monochrome.
• Use a default color that matches your brand or mood for the day.
• Use the pen option and eraser icon not just for design, but to create effects and textures.

5. Mix It Up With Posts and Stories

• Turn your Instagram post into a new story by resharing it and tweaking the background.
• Don’t leave it as is—change the default color, add overlays, or text to give it context.

6. Don’t Overthink It

Every Insta story doesn’t need to be polished. Use your tools, keep it authentic, and don’t get stuck in a loop of editing. The app’s built-in tools and a few layout habits are enough to make your stories feel intentional without spending hours.

Conclusion

Creating standout Instagram Stories is all about using the right tools and colors to match your content. Whether you’re tweaking the Instagram Story background color, adding a video background, or replacing the default background Instagram gives you when reposting, there are plenty of ways to customize.

Use features like the pen icon, draw icon, eraser tool, or even the green screen effect to create a solid background, apply a color gradient, or add a color overlay to the whole screen. Want your Story to reflect your brand color? Use the highlighter tool or do a long press to fill the screen quickly.

From changing the background image to customizing a new background color for a new post or repost, Instagram gives you creative options at every step. With just a few taps—via the sticker button, search bar, or tools on the left side and right-hand corner—you can shape your Story to stand out at first glance.

Whether you’re posting a quick update or designing branded Instagram Highlight covers, the right editing tools give you full creative freedom in the fast-moving social media world.

FAQs

Ruchi Dhimar

Ruchi Dhimar is a skilled content writer with 4 years of experience. She is  passionate about crafting compelling narratives, specializing in writing content for different industries.