30+ Instagram Story Hacks to Boost Engagement in 2025

You’ve probably seen so many Instagram post ideas by now that it feels like you’ve swallowed them a million times over!

The platform’s popularity is no joke, and its algorithm can take you from the bottom to the top of your game if you show dedicated and consistent efforts.

That said, if you want to become an Instagram sensation, using all of the platform’s features should be a part of your marketing strategy— including Instagram Stories.

If you have a picture or a video worth people’s attention but you don’t wanna post it on your feed, posting it on Instagram Stories will get you enough views. They will make you a story-teller that everyone cares about!

In this blog, we will share our 30+ Instagram Story hacks to help everyone see just how awesome you are!

But before we start, there’s something you should know— a secret, maybe?

If you want to be successful on Instagram, consistent posting and high-quality content is a must. All you need is a trusted partner to help you curate high-quality content and post it at the best times, so it gets the maximum engagement. Seems like a job for Social Champ!

Short Summary

• Instagram Stories are a powerful tool for boosting engagement and reaching a wider audience without cluttering your feed.
• To grow on Instagram, consistent posting, quality content, and creative use of features like Stories are essential.
• Selfies, even simple ones, can be great for Stories as they connect you with your audience and make your content relatable.
• Using trending music in your Stories can increase visibility and attract followers who share your taste.
• Filters, custom layouts, and creative hacks like using a picture as a backdrop make Stories visually appealing.
• Features like green screens, Boomerangs, and video posts add variety and entertainment to your Stories.
• Incorporate GIFs, interactive elements like polls and Q&As, and custom stickers to engage followers and keep them interested.
• Utilize text on plain backgrounds and progression-style stories to share clear messages and build suspense.
• Scheduling Instagram Stories using tools like Social Champ ensures consistency and optimal posting times for maximum engagement.
• These tried-and-tested hacks help influencers and brands stand out, making Instagram Stories an essential part of any growth strategy.

30+ Instagram Story Hacks

Now, let’s cut to the chase and discuss the Instagram Story hacks that will prove to be the turning point for your strategy!

1. Upload a Selfie

   Uploading a selfie on Instagram might be the easiest yet hardest thing to do!

   It’s the easiest because there’s not much you need to do instead of posing to get a good selfie.

   But it can also be the most difficult because it’s nearly impossible to get a GOOD selfie! Sigh!

   There’s never a wrong time for a selfie, and honestly, you’re your own toughest critic. So, stop overthinking and post that selfie that’s been sitting in your camera roll for ages.

   If you’re not sure about adding it to your feed, why not kick off your Instagram Stories with it? Once you start posting random selfies, you’ll always have something for your Story. Plus, you might be surprised by how many people enjoy seeing your face, so give it a try already!

   

2. Use Trending Music

   Music really brings people together from all around the world. You might not have much else in common with someone living thousands of miles away, but your taste in music can create an instant connection.

   Using trending music in your Instagram Stories can make them pop up for people worldwide. Instagram’s algorithm might even suggest your profile to others who like the same tunes—that’s how the algorithm rolls!

   Everything you do on the platform helps guide you to more relevant content. So, don’t hold back on sharing your playlist. Trust me, this Instagram hack comes with plenty of perks!

   

3. Explore Filters

   Instagram is loaded with filters that can really spice up your Stories. Whether it’s a fresh selfie or an old sky shot, slapping a filter on can completely transform your picture.

   There are tons of filters to try out, and honestly, there’s something for everyone. Even if you’re not into the popular picks, a little digging will definitely turn up a filter that fits your vibe perfectly.

   

4. Use a Picture as Backdrop

   Using a picture as a backdrop is one of the Instagram hacks for a story that doesn’t require much effort on your part, but truly helps your Stories stand out for the audience.

   If you want to showcase your photo in a unique way, just set another picture as the background first. Then, head over to the “stickers” section in Instagram Story and pick the photo you want to feature.

   Resize your main photo so the backdrop peeks through, and then hit post! It’s a cool twist that’ll catch your audience’s eye.

   

5. Use the Green Screen Feature

   Green screens don’t only exist in movies!

   If you are one of those people who are fascinated by green screens and how fun it is to work with them, we have a perfect hack for you.

   Green screens on Instagram Stories are a fun tool for creating cool videos. Fashion critics, as well as influencers make the most of this feature, using it to keep photos of outfits on screen while they share their opinion with their followers.

   Even if you’re not into fashion criticism, you can still have a blast experimenting with this feature. You can choose any picture or video, select it from your Story, and start recording yourself. It will look something like this!

   

6. Record a Video

   Most people lean towards posting photos on Instagram Stories because it’s straightforward, but don’t overlook the unique appeal of videos. They let you express yourself in ways photos just can’t match.

   You don’t even need to be in front of the camera talking. Just capturing a video of birds chirping while you sip your tea can be really impactful.

   It shows you in a natural, relatable way and helps you connect more with your followers. So, keep your camera ready to capture and share those memorable moments of your day!

   Featured Article: 15 Powerful Strategies for Instagram Growth 2025

7. Add GIFs

   Can you imagine having a conversation with your friend without sending any GIFs? We doubt it!

   GIFs are now an important part of our lives as social media users. Adding GIFs to make your Stories more fun is one of the most used Instagram Story hacks in 2024, and we’ve got it on our list too.

   Whatever your mood, there’s definitely a GIF for that. Just pick a photo, head to stickers > GIFs, and search for the perfect one to match your post. It makes your story so much more relatable!

   

8. Write Texts on a Plain Background

   Here’s a quick tip that’s almost like an insider secret. Sometimes, you’ve got something to share but no perfect image for your Instagram Story.

   When that happens, just go for text on a plain background. Instagram lets you pick any color you like for the background. You could use a photo, but text on a busy image can be hard to read.

   So, sticking to a plain background is your best bet—it keeps your message clear, front, and center!

   

9. Make a Boomerang

   Have you seen the videos that go on loop on Instagram? They’re Boomerangs!

   Remember when Instagram first introduced Boomerang?

   Everyone was all over it, making looped videos of just about anything. Fast forward to today, and Boomerangs are still a hit on Instagram Stories. If you’re running a business, there’s so much potential here.

   You can create a Boomerang of literally anything—your product, its packaging, you name it. It’s a fun way to show off what you’ve got!

   

10. Make a Layout of Multiple Images

    Got more than one picture to post? No problem! Instagram has a solution for everything!

    There’s a layout feature in Stories that lets you post up to four pictures at once.

    The layout aligns everything just right, making each photo look its best. It’s ideal for showcasing a sequence of events—like your product’s packaging process or maybe four selfies from a fun day at the museum.

    Whatever you choose to share, just remember to have fun with it!

    

11. Create a Reveal Series

    Ever heard of a reveal series? Let me break it down for you.

    It’s when you post a series of photos on Instagram, showing off something new to your audience bit by bit. It’s a really fun way to engage people by revealing one thing at a time.

    For example, imagine you have a photo with three cool items you want to share. You could start by showing just one item, keep two hidden, then reveal the second item in the next story, and finally show all three in the last story. It’s a creative way to keep your followers hooked on your Instagram Stories!

12. Create Cool Effects With Draw and Erase

    Remember all that fun messing around on Microsoft Paint on our computers back in the day? Well, that’s like what the draw feature on Instagram is for Gen Z and Alpha.

    It’s a way to show off your creativity and make your Stories totally unique. If you’re looking for ideas to spice up your Stories, this draw-and-erase feature is like a dream come true for anyone who loves to be artistic.

    

13. Make a Multiple Photo Story

    Want to share a bunch of photos on your Instagram Story but the layout collage isn’t working? Just grab a plain background color and then head over to the sticker section. You’ll see a photo option there.

    You can’t pick a bunch at once, so just choose them one by one. Once you’ve got all your favorites added, you can resize and move them around to make it your own!

    

14. Add Hashtags and Mentions

    Remember how Instagram has finally let people reshare those Stories you tagged them in? Thanks to this update, now, adding  mentions in Stories allow your friends to share your story to their profiles.

    While mentions are an important part of Instagram Stories, you shouldn’t overlook the importance of hashtags. Just like how we put hashtags in our Instagram posts, hashtags in Stories are just as important.

15. Use Different Fonts to Express Yourself

    Ever notice how people seem to have a favorite font? It’s kind of like their online handwriting!

    Choosing one font and making it your signature is a good idea, but if we think about it,

    Instagram’s font selection is a bit limited. You might end up with the same “look” as someone else. A better practice is to play around with different fonts depending on your mood or the vibe you’re going for. Fonts are a great way to add some variety and express yourself in a whole new way.

    

16. Place Ads on Instagram Stories

    Businesses aren’t just posting cute puppy pics on their Instagram Stories anymore (although, who wouldn’t love that?). Ever seen those cool ads that pop up while you’re checking out people’s Stories?

    Those are Instagram Story ads, and they’re a great way for businesses to get their products in front of people. These ads often have “shop now” buttons so you can click and buy right away, making them super convenient!

    

17. Use “Ask Me Anything” Feature

    Have you done those “Ask Me Anything” sessions on Instagram yet? If not, you’re missing out! It’s a super fun way to chat with your followers. You can even pick the kind of questions you want people to ask.

    Imagine all the funny stuff people might come up with! Unique questions deserve unique answers, so get ready to have some laughs and keep your audience entertained.

18. Run Polls

    Can’t decide what to wear? Stuck between two outfits? Instagram Polls to the rescue! This awesome feature lets you ask your followers for their opinions on literally anything.

    Need help picking breakfast? Boom, poll it. Trying to figure out the perfect launch date for your latest creation? Poll time! Plus, asking questions keeps your followers engaged, so it’s a win-win.

    

19. Do a Q/A

    Ever wonder what those super cool influencers you follow on Instagram are really like? Well, a lot of them host Q&A sessions on Stories to spill the tea! Use the “Ask Me Anything” feature and let your followers know it’s open for business.

    They can ask anything they want about you, your life, or even your work. Then, answer their questions one by one in your Stories.

    Pro tip: Save these Q&A sessions as Highlights so new followers can get to know you, too!

    

20. Save Your Favorite Filters

    Struggling to find the perfect filter for your Instagram Story every time? Been there!

    Saving your favorite filters is one of the most useful Instagram Story hacks. Not only does it save you a bunch of time, but it also means you can share super high-quality Stories with your followers. No more scrolling through a million filters – just pick your saved favs from the left side of the screen and get snapping!

    

21. Share Your Post Content on Stories

    Ever scroll through Instagram and totally miss a post from someone you follow? Yeah, it happens to the best of us. Here’s a trick for businesses and influencers: share your regular posts to your Stories too!

    People are way more likely to catch things in Stories than in their feeds. Sharing your posts to Stories is a super easy way to boost engagement. You can even add a little intro or teaser to your Story to get people excited to check out the full post.

    

22. Turn Live Photos into Boomerangs

    Did you know your live photos can be turned into Boomerangs?

    Yes, it amazes us, too!

    You can relive those memorable moments again by turning your live photos into Boomerangs. All you have to do is select the live photo for your Instagram Stories and press the picture until it turns into a Boomerang. Try it!

    

23. Enable Automated Closed Captions

    You might want to create videos for your Instagram Stories and adding captions can elevate their value.

    Not everyone might be able to hear what you’re saying, especially if the sound is off. But with automatic captions, everyone can be in on the fun! You don’t have to add any extra effort; just go to Stickers > Captions.

    Now, your videos will have captions that appear automatically, so everyone can enjoy them.

    Featured Article: Organic vs Paid Social Media in 2025

24. Use Editing Apps to Create Better Visuals

    While being raw and real on Instagram is trendy, let’s not forget that Instagram is all about visuals!

    You need to have an aesthetic to become famous on Instagram because the platform is saturated by high-quality images.

    Think of it like having a signature look. There are tons of editing apps out there to help you create eye-catching visuals. Remember, even the coolest Instagram hacks won’t work without great content, so nail the basics first!

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25. Share Multiple Answers in One Story

    Instagram’s “Ask Me Anything” lets you get one question at a time, but what if you want to answer more? Here’s a simple trick!

    1. Start a story with your “Ask Me Anything” sticker.
    2. Once you have a question, take a screenshot of it. Discard (swipe up) the story after taking the screenshot.
    3. Now, add a new story. This time, use the screenshot you took (with the question) as your background image.
    4. Choose another question from your inbox and answer it on this new story.
    5. Repeat steps 2-4 until you’ve answered all the questions you want.

26. Start a Countdown

    Let’s say you’re planning to launch a new product. How do you expect your audience to know that?

    A countdown might be everything you need to create the hype. A lot of brands start a countdown on their Instagram Story to let people know that their new product is launching in XYZ days.

    You can also dip your feet in it, as it might be one of the easiest Instagram Story hacks on this list.

    

27. Create Custom Stickers

    Instagram is open for customization, so even if you don’t find the stickers you are looking for, don’t worry because you can always create your own cutouts. Just grab any picture you want to turn into a sticker and save it to your phone.

    Then, head over to the Stickers section in your Stories and look for “Cutouts.” Pick the picture you saved, and voila, you’ve got a custom sticker ready!

28. Record Hands-Free

    There might be some moments when you want someone to record your video, but no one is around. Selfie recording can’t always be the answer, can it?

    Instagram has a hands-free recording feature that’s like a built-in cameraman. Just find the option and set your phone down at the perfect angle. Then hit record and watch your masterpiece come to life, all hands-free!

    

29. Create Progression Stories

    Progression stories are when there is a process in your stories that leads to something. They’re a fantastic way to keep your followers on the edge of their seats! Start with a story that hints at something big, then reveal a bit more info in the next Story.

    For instance, if you’re about to announce a huge surprise, you could tease it in your first Story and then finally spill the beans in the next one. It’ll leave your followers wanting more and keep them hooked! You can post it like this!

30. Add GIF as Your Background

    GIFs as background can be a fun element in Instagram Stories. There’s a wide variety of GIFs integrated with Instagram, so you can find one that perfectly reflects your mood and use it as your background. With this hack, you won’t have to worry as much about the backdrop for your Stories.

    

31. Schedule Them Beforehand

    All things aside, crushing it on social media takes work. No matter the platform, consistency and quality content are key. Especially on Instagram, the algorithm favors active accounts and deliver value to their followers. If you go MIA for a week, your engagement might take a nosedive. Bummer! Isn’t it?

    But there is a light at the end of this tunnel, as a social media management tool can help you keep your consistency and dedication in check.

    You can plan, create, and schedule your posts beforehand with this tool and later analyze the data to check your strategies.

    Scheduling your content beforehand helps you be consistent on the platform– even if you’re trekking through the mountains with no internet, your posts will go live on time, keeping your feed fresh and your followers engaged.

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In Conclusion

These Instagram Story hacks have been tried and tested by several influencers and brands over time, and all of them have proven to be extremely useful. The key to growing your Instagram is using all its features.

If you haven’t jumped on the Story train yet, now’s the perfect time! With these hacks in your back pocket, you’ll be a Story master in no time. Get ready to up your Instagram game!

Frequently Asked Questions