Live Photos capture a few seconds of movement and sound, adding a touch of magic to your memories. But sharing these moments on Instagram isn’t as straightforward as it seems. Instagram doesn’t directly support Live Photos. So, how can you post a Live Photo on Instagram and still retain its dynamic charm? This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough using the Boomerang feature.
Turning Your Live Photo into a Boomerang
While you can’t directly upload a Live Photo, Instagram’s Boomerang feature offers a clever workaround. Boomerang transforms your Live Photo into a short, looping video, preserving the motion and making it shareable on your feed and stories.
Step 1: Access the Boomerang Feature
Open your Instagram app and swipe left to access the Stories camera. Look for the Boomerang icon (an infinity symbol) on the left side of the screen, alongside other creative tools. Tap the icon to enter Boomerang mode.
Step 2: Select Your Live Photo
Once in Boomerang mode, access your camera roll from the bottom left corner of the screen. Choose the Live Photo you want to post. You’ll see a prompt at the top of the screen confirming you’re creating a Boomerang from a Live Photo.
Step 3: Customize Your Boomerang
Instagram offers four Boomerang styles:
- Classic: Loops the video forward and backward at normal speed.
- Slow-mo: Plays the Classic Boomerang at half speed.
- Echo: Adds a blurry, motion trail effect.
- Duo: Creates a fast-paced, glitchy loop.
Select your preferred style and tap “Done” in the top right corner.
Step 4: Share Your Creation
Before sharing, add text, stickers, polls, or links using the editing tools. Share your Boomerang to your story directly, or tap the arrow for more sharing options.
Posting to Your Feed
To add the Boomerang version of your Live Photo to your main Instagram feed, open the story you just posted. Tap the three dots (ellipsis icon) in the bottom right corner, and select “Share as Post”. This will publish the Boomerang as a regular post on your profile.
Sharing Live Photos on Instagram requires a little ingenuity, but the Boomerang workaround allows you to showcase the movement and energy captured in your Live Photos. With these simple steps, you can keep your Instagram feed lively and engaging.
