Every day, over 500 million Instagram users post stories, sharing snippets of their lives with followers. While Instagram Stories offer a dynamic and captivating way to connect with friends and audiences, many users find the quest to personalize and enhance stories to be an ongoing challenge. One common query is how to change the background of an Instagram story effectively. This seemingly simple task can transform your narrative and engage viewers more deeply. If you're looking for straightforward methods and the best tools for this purpose, you've come to the right place.
You’ll Learn:
- Why changing the background of an Instagram story matters.
- Built-in Instagram features for background change.
- Recommended apps for unique backgrounds.
- Step-by-step guides for using apps.
- FAQs about Instagram story backgrounds.
Why Change the Background of an Instagram Story?
Changing the background of an Instagram story can elevate the aesthetic, showcase your creativity, and highlight your content more effectively. With users scrolling through stories quickly, having a distinct background ensures that your story stands out. Additionally, a matching background aligns with your branding if you're a business or content creator, helping you maintain a cohesive visual identity.
Using Instagram's Built-In Features
While Instagram doesn’t offer many native options for altering the background extensively, some built-in features can be helpful:
Solid Color Backgrounds
To set a solid color as the background:
- Capture a new photo or select a photo from your gallery.
- Tap the drawing tool (the squiggly line).
- Choose your desired color.
- Tap and hold on the screen until the entire background changes.
Pro Tip: You can use Instagram's color dropper tool to select hues that match or complement your main story content.
Gradient Backgrounds
Gradient effects aren't directly available, but you can apply overlays and use tricks:
- Use stickers or the pen tool to create fade effects by using different shades of a color and transparency.
These techniques only scratch the surface, which is why third-party apps can come in handy for more sophisticated design options.
Top Third-Party Apps for Background Customization
To truly transform story backgrounds, third-party apps offer a host of features. Here are our top picks:
Canva
Overview: Canva is a versatile design application that includes Instagram story templates specifically designed for altering backgrounds. Its easy-to-use interface is perfect for beginners and professionals alike.
Features:
- Thousands of custom templates.
- Create gradient and image covers effortlessly.
- Access to a vast library of stock photos and elements.
How to Use:
- Download and open Canva, then select the Instagram Story design format.
- Browse templates or create a design from scratch.
- Replace elements, change backgrounds, and add text as needed.
- Download and share directly to Instagram.
Unfold
Overview: Unfold is another powerful app specializing in sleek, minimalist story designs. Ideal for those who favor simplicity and elegance.
Features:
- Free and premium templates.
- Photo/video collage functions.
- Text customization.
How to Use:
- Open Unfold and choose a template.
- Add your photos or videos; the background can be adjusted with built-in templates.
- Customize text and save the project.
- Share the final story to Instagram.
StoryArt
Overview: StoryArt offers a range of artful templates to change the background of an Instagram story with ease.
Features:
- Over 2000+ templates with various themes.
- Regular updates and new content.
- Easy-to-use interface.
How to Use:
- Open StoryArt and select an Instagram Story template.
- Customize the background and other design elements.
- Save and share directly to Instagram.
Case Studies: Real-World Examples
Many influencers leverage unique backgrounds to bolster engagement rates:
- Travel Bloggers: Use Canva to superimpose maps and location-specific art over photos.
- Fashion Influencers: Use gradient backgrounds in Unfold to highlight outfit colors.
- Food Bloggers: Create crisp, clean contrasts in StoryArt to make dishes pop against simple backdrops.
FAQs
Can I change the background of an Instagram story with a video?
Yes! When you upload a video to your story, apps like Canva or Unfold can add customized backgrounds where you can layer videos.
Do I need to pay for these apps?
Most apps offer a combination of free and premium features. While you can accomplish a lot with free templates, a small fee gives access to additional resources and advanced design elements.
Is it necessary to change the background of my Instagram story every time?
Not at all. However, if your goal is to differentiate and draw attention, applying creative backgrounds periodically can enhance engagement.
Bullet-Point Summary
- Stand out on Instagram by customizing story backgrounds.
- Use Instagram’s solid color feature for quick solutions.
- Apps like Canva, Unfold, and StoryArt offer advanced options.
- Tailor your background based on your brand and purpose.
- Understand app costs; free features often suffice.
Changing the background of an Instagram story can seem trivial, yet its implications on branding and engagement are significant. With various tools and creative approaches available, the task of altering your story's backdrop becomes a portal to more compelling and personalized storytelling. Experimentation is key—try the options and tools we've covered to find the perfect fit for your vision.
