Instagram Story: how to change background color on it

You know the drill. You’re sharing someone’s post to your Instagram Story – maybe it’s a Reel you love, a product shoutout, or your latest “new post up!” nudge – and… Instagram throws on that ugly, depressing gray background.

I was always so confused with this duh vibe, so let’s fix that!

Here’s how to swap out that auto-generated background for something that actually matches your vibe, your brand, or literally anything else. Yes, even if you’re not a designer. Yes, even if you’re juggling five client accounts. Well, especially then, but is you are not a social media amateur, you should know this by heart already.

1. Change the background color when reposting a Post, Reel, Story

So you hit “share to story” – now just follow those steps:

• Before posting, tap the pen icon (top right).
• Choose any color from the palette (you can tap and hold on the screen to pick a custom one too).
• Now tap and hold the background area.

Instagram will flood the whole screen with your chosen color. It’s as simple as that.

2. Add a custom photo background on Instagram Story instead

Here’s how to level up that Story with image background in seconds (without leaving the app):

• Tap the paper plane icon under a post, reel or a story u wanna share and hit “Add to story.”
• Instagram will pull it into your story… with the standard background (ugh).
• Now, tap the sticker icon and add the photo you actually want as the background – maybe a branded graphic or a themed visual.
• Tap and hold the image until you see the layering icon pop up (it’s subtle!).
• Drag the new image underneath the shared post – boom! Now it’s your new background.

This trick is perfect for Stories where brand vibes matter – think launches, takeovers, or just when you’re feeling ✨extra✨.

3. Want a semi-transparent overlay?

Mo problemo, here’s the hack:

• After sharing the Post, Reel or Story to your Story, tap the pen tool.
• Choose the highlighter tool.
• Pick your favourite or brand color.
• Tap and hold on the screen – it’ll add a semi-transparent overlay.

Now your post is still visible underneath, but the whole Story gets a cohesive, on-brand feel.

4. Managing multiple accounts? Do yourself a favor.

When you’re scheduling Stories across several brands or creators, it gets chaotic. Don’t let background color be the hill you die on.

Use Kontentino for productive social media management:

• Plan your Instagram Stories in Content Calendar for that easy review of strategy.
• Preview your Stories before publishing.
• Collaborate with your team without the “did-you-change-the-color-again?” drama.

So do yourself a favour – sign up for free trial of Kontentino to try it out. This is not just about aesthetics – it’s about brand consistency (and your sanity.)