How to Create a Meme for Instagram: 5 Mins to Engage Your Audience

Want to discover how to create a meme for Instagram that actually gets shared? We've all seen those viral memes that rack up thousands of likes while our attempts sit there collecting dust. But here's the thing—creating share-worthy memes isn't about luck, it's about having the right tools and knowing how to use them. In this guide, we'll show you three proven ways to turn your clever ideas into memes that get noticed. Ready to create your next viral meme? Let’s get started!

Direct way: How to create a meme on Instagram

Instagram's built-in tools offer a quick way to turn your photos into memes. While they may not have all the fancy features of specialized editors, these native tools are perfect for adding text to photos, combining images, and sharing your creations instantly. From Stories to Feed posts, let's explore how to make memes on Instagram directly.



Method 1: Steps to make a meme on Instagram (Mobile)

Step
1. Access the creation tools
2. Open Instagram and tap the (+) icon at the bottom of your screen. Select "Post" to create a meme for your feed, or choose "Story" for a temporary meme that disappears in 24 hours. Next, select the photo you want to use as your meme base from your gallery.
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Step
4. Set up your image
5. Once your photo is selected, tap "Next." If needed, adjust the size using pinch gestures to ensure your image fits perfectly. For classic meme proportions, tap the size adjustment icon at the bottom left to change between portrait or square size.
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Step
7. Adjust and save
8. Tap the "Aa" icon at the bottom of the screen to add text. Choose your font style from the options at the bottom. For classic meme vibes, select the "Strong" font in white. Position your text at the top or bottom of the image by dragging it. Once your text is perfect, tap "Next." Add a caption if you want, then hit "Share" to post it to your Instagram feed.
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Method 2: Steps to make a meme on Instagram (Desktop/online)

Step
1. Access and upload
2. Head to Instagram.com and log into your account. Click the Create (+) icon in the top-left menu to start a new post. Select "Post" from the dropdown menu to begin. Click "Select from computer" to upload your base image. Once uploaded, use the adjustment tools on the left to crop or resize if needed. The square format works best for most memes. Click Next to proceed.
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Step
4. Add effects and filters
5. Select from the different filters and effects to enhance your meme. Click on Adjustments to fine-tune your image to match your vision. Play with contrast, brightness, and other settings until your meme looks perfect.
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Step
7. Finalize and post
8. Click "Next" when you're happy with your design. Add any captions or hashtags, then click "Share" to post your meme to your feed.
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Creative way: How to make a meme on Instagram with AI

If you’re looking to create unique and customized memes, Dreamina’s AI-powered image editor is the perfect solution. Serving as both an AI meme generator and image editor, Dreamina simplifies every step of making memes. From generating image prompts or materials to adding text, tweaking facial expressions, or even altering outfits and appearances, it empowers you to craft viral-worthy memes in minutes. Whether you’re a brand, influencer, or just creating for fun, Dreamina offers the tools you need for funny and easy meme creation.



Guide 1: How to make an Instagram meme with AI generation

Transform your meme ideas into viral-worthy content with AI power. Click the link below to create your free account and start designing:

Step
1. Write down the prompts
2. After logging in, click "Generate" to access the AI image generator. If you don't prepare the meme materials, you can just write what you expect your meme to look like in the text box in detail. (The "T" means to draw the text on the memes; try it as you need)
3. For example: Create a two-panel meme with the first image showing a person smiling happily, captioned "When payday comes" and the second image showing the same person crying, captioned "When rent is due"
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5. To transform an existing meme or photo into a new meme, click the "Reference" icon under the prompt box and upload your base image. Then, choose the thing you want AI to reference and click "Save" to keep the settings. When you are back in the generation interface, don't forget to write down the prompts to guide AI.
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Step
7. Generate memes
8. After setting your prompt, it's time to bring your ideas to life! Select your preferred model, and set the quality slider to 10 for crystal-clear details. For classic meme proportions, choose a 16:9 or 4:3 aspect ratio from the dropdown menu—these formats work perfectly for most social platforms. Hit "Generate" and watch Dreamina create four unique variations of your meme concept.
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Step
10. Download
11. Once your meme looks perfect, click the Download button in the top right corner and save it into your local device instantly.
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Guide 2: How to make Instagram memes with AI editing

Meme creation is not limited to generation; you can also edit and tweak the image into a funny meme with Dreamina AI image editor. Here is how:

Step
1. Upload the base image
2. Begin by clicking "Create on canvas" at the top of your screen to enter Dreamina's powerful editor. Click the Upload Image button on the left sidebar, then select your base meme photo. Once the image loads on the canvas, click the "Fit to content" button to let the image fill the canvas perfectly.
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Step
4. Make a meme
5. For classic text-based memes, click the Add Text tool (T icon) in the toolbar. Choose your font style and size, then type your message. For that iconic meme look, try white text with a black outline - you can add this effect instantly using the text style options. Drag your text to position it perfectly, typically at the top or bottom of your image.
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7. If your meme needs more tweaks, like adding new elements or changing the facial expression and dressing, simply click the Inpaint tool on the toolbar and highlight the target area. Type your idea in the prompt box below, hit "Inpaint," and watch as Dreamina naturally integrates the change into your design.
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Step
9. Export your meme
10. Happy with your creation? Click the Export icon in the top right corner to save your meme. Choose PNG format for the best quality, set the size, and export option, then hit Download. Your meme is now ready to go viral on Instagram.
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Discover more AI features:

• AI expander
• Need more room for text or want to enlarge your photo size? The Expand tool lets you extend your image in any direction while AI fills in the new space naturally. Perfect for adapting photos to different social media formats or creating space for longer text.
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• Smart remover
• Clean up your photo with Dreamina's Remove tool in seconds. Just paint over any distracting elements or watermarks, and watch them disappear without a trace. Great for removing unnecessary details or creating cleaner backgrounds for your images.
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• Image blender
• Combine two images into one seamless photo with the Blend tool. Upload your main image and a background reference, then let AI blend them together naturally. Ideal for creating unique crossover images or adding custom backgrounds to your content.
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• HD upscaling
• Turn low-resolution images into crisp, clear visuals. HD upscale tool automatically enhances image quality and sharpens details, ensuring your pictures look professional even after adding text and effects.
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Instant way: How to make Instagram memes with a template

For those who prefer working with ready-made formats, piZap's meme maker offers a treasure trove of classic templates and modern designs. This online editor combines user-friendly tools with an extensive template library, making it easy to create Instagram memes that feel fresh while using familiar formats. From classic reaction memes to trending layouts, piZap helps you find and customize the perfect template for your ideas.



Steps to create memes with piZap

Step
1. Choose your template
2. Visit piZap.com and click "Meme maker" to enter their template library. Scroll through their extensive collection, exploring everything from classic meme formats to trending designs. Found the perfect template? Click it to begin customizing.
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Step
4. Customize your meme
5. Once your template loads, double-click any text to edit it. Use the toolbar above to adjust font style, size, and color. Need to replace the image? Click the "Add pic" tab on the left, then upload your own photo.
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Step
7. Save and export
8. Happy with your meme? Click the "Download" button in the top right corner. Choose your preferred file format and quality settings, then hit Download to save your creation directly to your device.
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Key features

• Template library: Access a range of pre-designed meme layouts, from classic formats to trending styles. Each template is fully customizable and optimized for social sharing.
• Easy text editing: Intuitive text tools let you adjust font styles, add effects, and position your message perfectly. Includes popular meme fonts and automatic text positioning.
• Image enhancement: Built-in filters and adjustment tools help optimize your images for meme creation. Includes cropping, resizing, and basic photo editing features.

Get inspired: 5 tips to create Instagram memes that will go viral

1. Know your audience
2. The secret to viral memes lies in understanding your followers' sense of humor. Watch how they interact with your current content - what makes them laugh? What gets shared? For business accounts, focus on industry-specific jokes that professionals in your field will instantly relate to. For personal accounts, tap into universal experiences that make followers think, "That's so me!"
3. Use relatable captions
4. Great memes connect with real experiences. Focus on common situations like Monday morning struggles, weekend plans, or daily work life. Add your unique twist to trending topics. For example, if everyone's talking about a new movie, create memes that highlight funny or unexpected moments your audience might have noticed, too.
5. Keep it visually clear
6. A cluttered meme is a forgotten meme. Use high-contrast images where the subject stands out clearly. Place text in easily readable spots - usually top and bottom with enough space between lines. Dark text with white borders or white text with black borders ensures your message pops on any background.
7. Stay current
8. Timing is everything in meme culture. Jump on trending formats while they're hot, but add your original spin to stand out. Follow popular meme accounts in your niche to spot rising trends early. Just remember - trends move fast, so act quickly when you spot a format gaining traction.
9. Test before posting
10. Not sure if your meme will hit the mark? Share it with a small group first. Send it to friends who match your target audience or post it on your close friends' Story. Their reactions can help you gauge if it's ready for your main feed. Pay attention to immediate reactions - the best memes usually get instant laughs.

Conclusion

How to create a meme for Instagram is all about finding the right balance between humor and impact. From quick edits with Instagram's built-in tools to professional templates on piZap, each method brings something unique to the table. But for those looking to create truly original content that stands out, Dreamina's AI technology changes the game completely. Transform basic photos into viral-worthy memes, generate fresh templates from your ideas, or seamlessly change meme materials into share-worthy content— all is simple and feedback-instant. Your next viral meme is just a few clicks away. Take your meme game to the next level with Dreamina today!

FAQs

1. How can I make a meme for Instagram with a watermark?
2. Adding your watermark protects your meme creation while building brand recognition. For professional results, use Dreamina's Add Text tool to create custom watermarks that blend naturally with your design. You can adjust opacity, position, and style to ensure your mark is visible but not distracting. Start creating watermarked memes that protect your content while looking polished with Dreamina now!
3. Can I use my friend's photo to make a meme on Instagram?
4. When creating memes with photos of others, always prioritize privacy and respect. The best practice is to get explicit permission before using anyone's photos in your memes. After you access your friend's permission, you can try Dreamina's Image to image feature to make the memes. Simply upload a similar reference photo and let AI generate a new, unique image that captures the same mood or situation. This way, you can create engaging memes while respecting everyone's privacy. Start creating original meme content with Dreamina today!
5. How to create Instagram memes with emojis or stickers?
6. To create Instagram memes with emojis or stickers, start by choosing a tool that allows you to add or generate memes featuring them. Luckily, Dreamina does both! You can input your ideas as prompts to generate specific memes or upload your own materials and use Dreamina’s canvas editor for seamless adjustments and creative merging. Go beyond standard meme formats and craft unique, emoji-enhanced content effortlessly with Dreamina.