Making Your Instagram Stories Pop: A Step-by-Step Guide
"altering Instagram story background hues"
Gone are the days when Instagram stories were just a simple, linear display of photos. Now, they offer a plethora of interactive features, including stickers, external links, and content-rich layouts. As these updates roll out, the demand for sophisticated editing tools has skyrocketed.
However, many users overlook one key tool in Instagram's arsenal: the background color changer. This nifty feature allows you to set a solid color as a base for your content, making it easier to create eye-catching layouts or emphasize specific elements. Despite its usefulness, it can be a bit hidden and comes with some limitations.
Let's dive into how to use this feature and unleash your artistic side with these tips and tricks.
Changing Your Instagram Story Background Color
There are numerous ways to customize the canvas of your Instagram Story, from bold solid colors to layered images for a polished look.
Picture-Perfect Block Colors
Want to change the background color of your Instagram story? Let's get started! Launch Instagram and tap the blue icon above the "Your story" text at the top of the home screen. Select at least one image or video from your camera roll. For this example, we've chosen a single photo. Once your image is chosen, use pinch and zoom gestures to position it on the canvas.
Now, tap the three-dot icon in the top-right corner to open a menu. Select Draw at the top of the list. A color palette will appear along the bottom of the screen. Swipe through the options, choose a color, then tap and hold anywhere on the background to fill the canvas with that color.
You'll notice that the background color changes, but the image you initially placed gets masked by the new color. To bring back the image (or add it again), tap the sticker icon in the toolbar at the top of the screen. Then, select the Photo option from the list of media types. Select your preferred image, and voilà! Your image is now sitting pretty on the new background color.
If you need to adjust the background color again, don't fret. Once an image is added through the sticker tool, it will remain on the canvas, even if the background is updated.
Color Match Madness
Changing your Instagram Story's canvas to a fixed color can infuse personality, but for more cohesive visuals, try the built-in color sampler.
To sample a color, tap the dropper icon in the bottom-left corner of the screen. Drag the selector tool onto the canvas to pick a color. This way, you can quickly match your canvas color to a specific element in your photo.
However, since the selector sits under your finger, it can be tricky to pick the exact color you want. And if you're working with detailed visuals or precise branding, this can be a pain.
To tackle this, consider using a dedicated editor like Kapwing. As a precise design tool, Kapwing provides ultimate control over hex codes, ensuring consistent, accurate branding across all your content.
Designing Masterpieces with Third-Party Tools
Wish your stories looked like high-end, professional ads? Here's how to create a polished, cohesive design using tools beyond Instagram's limited features.
Image-in-Image Layout
Let's say you want to promote a product using an Instagram Story. Here's a simple method to create a sophisticated image-in-image layout.
First, select the product image you'd like to feature. Upload your chosen image to a new project or choose a high-quality stock image to save time. Next, resize your background to fit the Instagram Story aspect ratio (9:16).
Now, apply Instagram's built-in background remover to blend your image with the design. Once your image is properly positioned and connected to the background, you can add text, logos, or other branding elements to complete your design. Don't forget to adjust the text and layout to seamlessly fit the final 9:16 ratio.
Image Blur Effect
Another variation to create a cohesive design is to blur the entire image and use the blurred version as the canvas. This technique keeps your Story correctly sized while incorporating colors from your original image, making the final product look both natural and appealing.
To do this, select a background color, and position your image accordingly. Then, apply the blur effect to the image, maintain the correct aspect ratio, and add your desired elements.
And there you have it! A step-by-step guide to creating stunning Instagram Stories that'll get your followers talking. With these tips, you can elevate your design game and claim your title as the Queen (or King) of Instagram Stories.
Embrace the Magic of Third-Party Tools
Third-party tools like Kapwing can help you craft top-tier Instagram Stories that look like they were created by a professional designer. Here's an overview of how to use Kapwing to create jaw-dropping Instagram Stories:
The Ultimate Instagram Story Design Formula with Kapwing
- Access Kapwing:
- Go to the Kapwing website and sign up for an account if you haven't already.
- Navigate to the Kapwing Studio, which offers a variety of tools for video and image editing.
- Design Your Story:
- Use the Image Editor to create stunning visuals. Kapwing provides guides on designing enticing graphics, perfect for your Instagram Stories.
- Select a template or create your design from scratch. Layer text overlays, images, and graphic elements to fit your brand and story.
- Resize for Instagram:
- Utilize the Resizing Canvas feature to instantly adjust your design to fit Instagram’s dimensions. Ensuring your content looks perfect across mobile and desktop.
- Add Text and Effects:
- Use text overlays to add captions or other text elements. Freely customize the font, color, and size to match your brand.
- Apply effects like filters, animations, and adjustments to enhance visual appeal.
- Collaborate if Needed:
- If you’re working with a team, use Kapwing’s Collaboration Tools to share your project and receive real-time feedback and edits.
- Export and Share:
- Once your design is complete, export it in the desired format. Upload your creations directly to Instagram by opening the Instagram app, selecting the “+” icon to add a new story.
Pro Tips for Advanced Designs
- Use Templates: Kapwing offers customizable templates that can save time and help maintain consistent branding.
- Leverage Stock Media: Access Kapwing’s library of free photos, videos, audio, and other graphic elements to ramp up your designs.
- Experiment with AI Features: Kapwing’s AI-powered tools, like the Smart Cutting Tool and Voice Cloning, can add a professional touch to your stories, especially if you're creating video content.
By following these steps and tips, you can create visually stunning Instagram Stories that'll wow your audience. So, what are you waiting for? Let your creative juices flow, and show the world what you're made of!
- With the abundance of smartphones and the advancement in technology, it's now easier than ever to customize the background color of your Instagram stories to make them more visually appealing.
- To take your Instagram stories to the next level, consider using third-party tools like Kapwing in addition to Instagram's features. These external applications offer more precision and control over branding elements, helping you create professional-looking designs.
