How to Repost Instagram Stories: A Pro’s Guide

So, you want to share the love on Instagram and repost a fantastic story? You’ve come to the right place. Here’s the lowdown on how to repost Instagram stories, a seemingly simple act that’s actually packed with nuance and (sometimes frustrating) limitations.

Essentially, you can repost another user’s Instagram Story in two primary ways: if you’re tagged in it, or if you capture the story yourself and repost it as your own content. Let’s break down each method.

Reposing When You’re Tagged:

This is the straightforward, Instagram-approved method.

1. Check Your DMs: When someone tags you in their story, you’ll receive a direct message notification from them. The message will contain a preview of the story and a button that says “Add to Your Story.”
2. Tap “Add to Your Story”: Tapping this button opens the story in the Instagram Story editor.
3. Edit and Customize: From here, you can resize the story, move it around, add text, stickers, GIFs, polls, questions, and all the usual Instagram Story flair. This is your chance to add your personal touch. Think of it as remixing, not just copying.
4. Post to Your Story: Once you’re happy with your edits, tap the “Your Story” button at the bottom left of the screen to publish it to your own story.

Reposing When You’re NOT Tagged (The Slightly Trickier Method):

If you weren’t tagged, you’ll need to get a bit creative. Instagram doesn’t offer a built-in repost button for stories you just happen to see.

1. Get Permission: This is crucial. Always ask the original poster for permission before reposting their content. This is simply good digital etiquette and respects their ownership of their work.
2. Take a Screenshot or Screen Recording: If you get the go-ahead, take a screenshot (for static content) or a screen recording (for video content) of the story.
3. Upload to Your Story: Open Instagram and create a new story. Upload the screenshot or screen recording from your camera roll.
4. Credit the Original Poster: This is non-negotiable. Clearly credit the original poster by tagging their username in your story. You can use the text tool to type their handle (@username) or use the mention sticker.
5. Add Context (Optional but Recommended): Briefly explain why you’re reposting the story. Are you highlighting a product, supporting a friend, or sharing valuable information? A little context goes a long way.

Important Considerations:

• Privacy Settings: If the original poster has a private account, you won’t be able to repost their story unless you’re following them and they’ve tagged you.
• Story Expiration: Instagram stories disappear after 24 hours. If you’re trying to repost a story that’s already expired, you’re out of luck (unless you already took a screenshot/screen recording).
• Quality: Screenshots and screen recordings can sometimes result in a loss of quality, especially for videos. Keep this in mind when choosing this method.
• Copyright: Be mindful of copyright laws. Don’t repost content that infringes on someone else’s copyright, even if you have permission from the person who posted it on Instagram.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Reposting Instagram Stories

Here are answers to common questions about reposting stories, covering everything from technical limitations to ethical considerations.

1. Why Can’t I Repost Some Stories Even When I’m Tagged?

This usually boils down to the original poster’s settings. If their account is private and you’re not following them, or if they’ve disabled reposting from their settings, you won’t see the “Add to Your Story” button. Some business accounts also have restrictions.

2. How Do I Know If Someone Has Tagged Me in Their Story?

You’ll receive a direct message notification in your Instagram DMs. The notification will include a preview of the story and the “Add to Your Story” button. You may also get a general notification, but the DM is the surest sign.

3. Can I Repost Multiple Stories From the Same Person?

Yes! As long as you’re tagged in each story and the original poster’s settings allow it, you can repost multiple stories from the same person, one after the other.

4. Is There a Way to Repost Stories in Bulk?

Unfortunately, Instagram doesn’t offer a way to repost multiple stories in bulk. You have to repost each one individually.

5. How Can I Credit the Original Poster When Reposting a Story?

The best way is to tag their username using the text tool (@username) or the mention sticker. Make sure the tag is visible and easy to read. You can also add a text overlay saying “Original post by @username.”

6. What’s the Difference Between Sharing a Post to My Story and Reposting a Story?

Sharing a post to your story allows you to share a static image or video from someone’s feed directly to your story. Reposting a story is specifically about sharing another user’s temporary (24-hour) story content.

7. Can I Repost Stories to My Instagram Highlights?

Yes, you can. After you repost a story to your own story, you can then add it to your Instagram Highlights. This allows the story to live on your profile for longer than 24 hours.

8. Is It Possible to Repost Stories From a Computer?

While you can view Instagram stories on a computer through the website, you can’t repost them directly from there. You’ll need to use the Instagram mobile app on your phone or tablet.

9. Will the Original Poster Know If I Repost Their Story?

Yes, if you’re reposting using the “Add to Your Story” button (because you were tagged), the original poster will see that you’ve shared their story. If you’re reposting by taking a screenshot/screen recording and tagging them, they’ll receive a notification that you’ve mentioned them in your story.

10. Are There Any Apps That Automate the Story Reposting Process?

There are some third-party apps that claim to automate reposting stories, but be very cautious about using them. Many of these apps are unreliable, may violate Instagram’s terms of service, and could compromise your account’s security. It’s best to stick to the official methods.

11. What’s the Best Way to Ask for Permission to Repost a Story?

A simple direct message works best. Something like, “Hey! I love your story about [topic]. Would you mind if I repost it to my story and credit you?” is polite and straightforward.

12. How Can I Prevent Others From Reposting My Stories?

While you can’t completely prevent someone from taking a screenshot or screen recording of your story, you can control whether people can repost your stories directly using the “Add to Your Story” button when they are tagged. Go to your Instagram settings, then Privacy, then Story. Under “Allow Story Resharing,” you can toggle this option on or off. If you have a private account and only your followers can see your stories, only they will be able to repost your stories if you are tagged.

By understanding these methods and considerations, you can confidently repost Instagram stories while respecting content creators and maintaining a strong online presence. Remember: always ask for permission when not tagged, and always give credit where credit is due. Happy sharing!