How to Change Background Color on Instagram Story with Photo

Creating visually appealing Instagram Stories is a key element in engaging your audience and expressing your creativity. While Instagram offers a range of features, customizing the background color behind your photo in a Story can significantly enhance its aesthetic. Many users wonder how to easily manipulate the background color to complement their image and overall theme. Understanding the simple techniques to change background color on Instagram Story with photo allows you to elevate your content and captivate your followers with more personalized and professional-looking posts.

Simple Steps to Change the Background Color

There are a couple of straightforward methods to alter the background color when adding a photo to your Instagram Story. Let’s explore the most common and effective techniques.

Using the Color Picker Tool

1. Open Instagram and Create a Story: Tap on your profile picture or the “+” icon at the top left to start a new Story.
2. Upload Your Photo: Select the photo you want to use from your camera roll.
3. Access the Draw Tool: Tap on the “Draw” icon (a squiggly line) at the top right of the screen.
4. Select the Color Picker: In the draw options, choose the color picker tool (looks like a dropper).
5. Choose a Color: Tap on any area of your photo to sample a color. This will set the selected color as your background.
6. Fill the Background: Tap and hold on the screen. This will fill the entire background with the selected color. Your photo will remain visible on top of the new background.
7. Fine-Tune: Use the eraser tool to reveal parts of the original background or add further details.

Using the Create Mode

Instagram’s “Create” mode offers another way to customize your background.

1. Open Instagram and Select “Create”: Swipe right on your feed or tap the “+” icon and choose “Story,” then select “Create” at the bottom.
2. Choose a Background Color: Tap the color circle at the bottom of the screen to cycle through various pre-set background colors.
3. Add Your Photo: Tap the camera icon at the bottom to access your camera roll. Select the photo you want to add.
4. Resize and Position: Adjust the size and position of your photo on the colored background.

Tips for Choosing the Right Background Color

• Complementary Colors: Select a color that complements the colors in your photo.
• Consider Your Brand: Use colors that align with your brand’s aesthetic.
• Test Different Options: Experiment with various colors to see what looks best.
• Keep it Simple: A subtle background often works best to avoid distracting from your photo.

FAQ About Instagram Story Background Colors

Can I use a gradient as a background color?

While Instagram doesn’t offer a direct gradient tool for backgrounds within the Story feature, you can create a gradient image using a third-party app and then upload it as your background.

Is it possible to use a custom hex code for the background color?

Unfortunately, Instagram’s color picker doesn’t allow you to enter a specific hex code. You’re limited to the colors you can sample from the photo or those available in the “Create” mode palette.

Can I change the background color after I’ve already added text or stickers?

Yes, you can change the background color at any point in the Story creation process, even after adding text or stickers. Just remember that changing the background using the “Draw” tool might cover existing elements, so you might need to rearrange them.

Why doesn’t the “Fill” option work sometimes?

The “Fill” option might not work if there are gaps or transparent areas in your drawing. Ensure you’re filling the entire screen with the color before tapping and holding.

Mastering the art of changing the background color on Instagram Story with photo unlocks a new level of creativity for your social media presence. By following these simple steps and considering the tips provided, you can transform your Stories into visually stunning masterpieces that captivate your audience. Remember to experiment with different colors and techniques to find what works best for you and your brand.

Furthermore, understanding the nuances of color theory can significantly impact the effectiveness of your background choices; For instance, analogous colors (those adjacent to each other on the color wheel) often create a harmonious and visually pleasing effect, while contrasting colors can draw attention and create a sense of dynamism. Consider the mood you want to evoke with your Story; warm colors like red and orange tend to convey energy and excitement, while cool colors like blue and green can promote a sense of calm and serenity. By consciously selecting colors that align with your desired emotional impact, you can craft Stories that resonate more deeply with your audience.

Advanced Techniques for Background Customization

Beyond the basic color picker and “Create” mode, there are several advanced techniques you can employ to create truly unique and eye-catching backgrounds.

Using Photo Editing Apps

Dedicated photo editing applications offer a wealth of options for background manipulation that go far beyond Instagram’s native tools. Apps like PicsArt, Snapseed, and Adobe Photoshop Express allow you to:

• Create Complex Gradients: Design custom gradients with multiple colors and transitions.
• Add Textures and Patterns: Incorporate textures like marble, wood, or fabric to create visually interesting backgrounds.
• Use Transparency: Create semi-transparent backgrounds that allow elements of the underlying image to subtly show through.
• Employ Masking Techniques: Isolate specific areas of your photo and change the background behind them with precision.

Leveraging GIF Backgrounds

Instagram’s GIF sticker library can be used creatively to add dynamic and engaging backgrounds to your Stories. Search for simple, repeating GIF patterns that complement your photo without being too distracting. Alternatively, create your own custom GIF backgrounds using animation software and upload them to a GIF platform like Giphy for easy access within Instagram;

Creating a “Double Exposure” Effect

This technique involves layering two images on top of each other to create a surreal and artistic effect. To achieve this:

1. Choose Two Images: Select a photo you want as your main subject and another image you want to use as the background texture (e.g., a close-up of leaves, a starry sky, or an abstract pattern).
2. Upload the Subject Photo: Start a new Story and upload the photo of your main subject.
3. Add the Background Texture: Use the sticker icon to add the second photo as a sticker.
4. Resize and Position: Resize and position the texture image to cover the entire screen.
5. Adjust Transparency: Use the transparency slider (available in some photo editing apps) to blend the two images together. Experiment with different levels of transparency to achieve the desired effect.
6. Erase and Refine: Use the eraser tool to selectively reveal parts of the underlying subject photo, creating a layered and intriguing visual.

By mastering these advanced techniques, you can transform your Instagram Stories from simple snapshots into captivating works of art. The key is to experiment, be creative, and find the methods that best suit your style and the message you want to convey. Remember that a well-chosen background can not only enhance the visual appeal of your Story but also help to reinforce your brand identity and connect with your audience on a deeper level.