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.)
