How to Edit Instagram Photo Backgrounds: From Basic to Viral

In a word, images are the true spotlight of Instagram. But have you ever wondered what really makes an image stand out? It’s not just the subject—it’s the background that sets the tone and steals the show! With millions of posts shared daily, the key to capturing attention lies in creatively editing your Instagram photo backgrounds. Ready to elevate your feed into a scroll-stopping masterpiece? In this guide, we’ll walk you through three effective methods to take your Instagram photos to the next level. Let’s get started!

Direct way: Edit photo backgrounds on Instagram itself

Instagram offers a range of built-in tools that allow users to make quick and effective background edits directly within the app. While it doesn’t provide advanced background replacement features like specialized editors, it does offer filters, stickers, and background adjustment options that can still make a significant difference in your photos. In this section, we’ll guide you through editing photo backgrounds both on mobile and desktop versions of Instagram. Let’s dive in and discover how to make the most of these native tools.



Method 1: Steps to edit backgrounds in Instagram stories (Mobile)

Step
1. Access the drawing tool
2. Open the Instagram app and tap on the (+) icon under "Your Story" to add a story on Instagram. Tap the (...) icon in the top-right corner, then select the Draw tool from the menu that appears. Next, tap the Pen option at the top of the screen to start customizing your background.
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Step
4. Choose a background color
5. Select your desired color from the palette at the bottom. Tap the Pen tool again, then press and hold the middle of the screen. After a few seconds, the entire screen will fill with your chosen color, overlaying your image.
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Step
7. Refine with Eraser and add the final touches
8. Tap the Eraser icon and use the slider on the left side of the screen to adjust the eraser brush size. Drag your finger across the screen to reveal parts of your image beneath the color layer. Once you’ve revealed the main subject of your image, tap Done in the top-right corner. Finally, tap Your Story to share your edited image on your Instagram story.
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Method 2: Steps to edit backgrounds in Instagram stories (Desktop)

Step
1. Upload your photo
2. Log in to your Instagram account on a desktop browser. Click the Create (+) icon at the bottom left, select "Post," and then click "Select from computer" to upload your photo. Choose your image, and once it loads in the editor, proceed to the next step.
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Step
4. Adjust image ratio and framing
5. Before editing, adjust the image ratio to match Instagram's post or story format. Use the Crop tool to frame your image accurately. Hover your mouse over the image to reposition it, ensuring the main subject stays the focal point. Leave enough visual space in the background for any enhancements. Once that's done, click "Next" in the top right corner to proceed.
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Step
7. Apply background adjustments
8. Instagram's desktop editor provides filters and basic adjustment tools. Click the 'Filters' tab to explore and apply background effects. Then, switch to the 'Adjustments' tab to fine-tune brightness, contrast, and saturation for a polished look. Once you're satisfied, click 'Next' in the top-right corner to continue.
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Step
10. Finalize and share
11. Write an engaging caption, add relevant hashtags, and tag accounts if needed. Finally, click Share to publish your edited photo directly on Instagram.
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Innovative way: Edit Instagram backgrounds with AI

AI is transforming editing by introducing fresh perspectives and innovative designs. Among these tools, Dreamina stands out for its precision, versatility, and ease of use. With powerful AI and intuitive click-to-effect options, it simplifies tasks like background replacement, modifying elements, or adding new features seamlessly. Whether crafting product shots, designing lifestyle photos, or curating Instagram content, Dreamina’s tools make Instagram background edits smooth and efficient.



Steps to edit Instagram backgrounds with Dreamina

Transform your Instagram backgrounds into scroll-stopping content in just three simple steps. But first, click the button below to create your free Dreamina account:

Step
1. Upload your photo
2. After signing in, click "Create on canvas" at the top of your screen to enter Dreamina's powerful editor. Look for the "Upload Image" button on the left sidebar, then select the Instagram photo you want to transform. Your image will appear on the canvas, ready for editing.
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Step
4. Edit the Instagram photo background
5. Once your image loads on the canvas, locate the Remove background tool in the toolbar above. Click it to let Dreamina remove the background and replace the original background with a transparent one. Click Done to save the changes.
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7. Now comes the fun part—giving your image a fresh new background. If you already have an image in mind for the background, click the Upload Image icon at the top-left corner and select the image from your computer.
8. If you'd prefer to create a custom background from scratch, click the Text-to-Image button on the left and enter a detailed prompt describing your idea. Try something like "Replace the transparent background with a solid yellow backdrop featuring a bold, rich tone. Add subtle dark shades and gradients to create depth and a visually dynamic effect." Once you've written your prompt, set the quality and aspect ratio, then click Generate to get the new background.
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10. If you want to suit the background to different platform size requirements, simply click Expand, set your preferred size and aspect ratio, and then hit Expand again. In seconds, Dreamina will seamlessly adjust your image to fit your specifications.
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Step
12. Download
13. Happy with the results? Awesome! Click the Export icon in the top-right corner to download your edited Instagram image. Choose your preferred file type, set the size and export options, and then click Download to save the image to your computer.
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Now, head over to Instagram and share your freshly edited photo to showcase your style. Get ready to shine and start trending on Instagram!



Find more AI features:

• AI inpainting
• Take your backgrounds from basic to breathtaking. Use the Inpaint tool to add creative elements or fix imperfections. Simply paint over any area and describe what you want—from objects on your table to artistic textures. Perfect for adding unique elements that make your photos stand out.
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• Magic eraser
• Say goodbye to photobombers and distracting objects! Dreamina's Remove tool lets you clean up your backgrounds with precision. Just highlight unwanted elements and watch them disappear without a trace.
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• Text overlay
• Add stylish text that complements your Instagram aesthetic with Dreamina's Add text tool. Create eye-catching quotes, captions, or brand messages that blend naturally with your background design. Choose from various styles or let AI generate unique effects that match your photo's mood perfectly.
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• HD upscaling
• Never worry about pixelated backgrounds again. The HD Upscale tool enhances your photo's resolution, making every detail crystal clear—perfect for maintaining professional quality across all Instagram formats, from feed posts to stories.
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• Smart retouching
• Perfect lighting and colors in one click. Dreamina's Retouch feature automatically enhances your entire photo while keeping it natural-looking. This feature automatically enhances lighting, colors, and facial details, ideal for professional headshots or poster designs.
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Traditional way: Edit Instagram backgrounds with a photo editor

When you need precise control over your Instagram backgrounds, Photoroom offers a powerful yet user-friendly solution. This Instagram background photo editor specializes in background manipulation, making it perfect for creating professional-looking Instagram content. With its intelligent background removal and extensive editing tools, Photoroom helps you achieve clean, polished results for your social media posts.



Steps to edit Instagram backgrounds in Photoroom

Step
1. Upload your photo
2. Visit Photoroom background remover page and click "Start from a photo" to upload your desired image.
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Step
4. Replace or edit the background
5. Once your image loads, Photoroom will automatically analyze it and remove the background, leaving only the subject on a transparent layer. Choose your preferred background color from the palette above the image to customize the background.
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Step
7. Download and share
8. Once you're satisfied, click Download to save your image in high resolution, ready for Instagram upload.
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Key features

• Background remover: Instantly erase backgrounds with precision and detect complex edges like hair and transparent items. Perfect for creating clean, professional Instagram content in seconds.
• Professional template library: Choose from tons of Instagram-ready backgrounds, from minimal gradients to trending patterns
• Multi-format support: Save your edits in various Instagram-optimized sizes, from perfect squares for your feed to vertical shots for stories

Top ideas: Viral Instagram photo editing background by Dreamina

1. Neon Dream Aesthetics

Prompt: "Futuristic city street at night with soft neon pink and purple lights, glowing signs, gentle fog effect, rain-slicked pavement reflecting lights, cyberpunk aesthetic, high quality, ultra-detailed."



2. Ethereal Cloud Paradise

Prompt: "Soft fluffy clouds in pastel pink and lavender, golden hour lighting, ethereal atmosphere, dreamy aesthetic, cotton candy sky, ultra HD, hyperrealistic details."



3. Botanical Luxe

Prompt: "Luxury tropical leaves background, dark emerald green palm fronds, golden metallic accents, marble elements, moody lighting, ultra-detailed, high-end fashion magazine style."



4. Abstract Color Flow

Prompt: "Abstract fluid art background, flowing liquid colors in teal and gold, marble effect, smooth gradients, artistic paint swirls, high resolution, premium quality."



Conclusion

Transforming your Instagram backgrounds doesn't have to be complicated. From Instagram's built-in tools to Dreamina's AI power and Photoroom's precise controls, you now have three effective methods to elevate your content. While each option has its strengths, Dreamina stands out with its AI-powered precision and user-friendly approach. Not only can you remove and replace backgrounds in seconds, but you can also enhance, expand, and perfect them—all with just a few clicks. Ready to make your Instagram feed impossible to scroll past? Start creating with Dreamina today!

FAQs

1. How can I edit my Instagram background to make it more professional?
2. Creating professional-looking Instagram backgrounds is all about clean edges and consistent style. While Instagram's built-in tools can help, Dreamina's AI technology takes it to the next level. Its advanced background removal and enhancement features ensure crisp, clean results every time. Plus, with tools like Smart Retouching and HD Upscale, you can achieve studio-quality backgrounds without professional editing skills. Transform your Instagram aesthetic today with Dreamina.
3. Is there a free Instagram background photo editor?
4. Yes! While many editors charge premium fees, Dreamina offers multiple free daily credits to help you create stunning Instagram content. You can access professional features like AI background removal, smart retouching, and HD upscaling without any upfront cost. Take advantage of these free credits to elevate your Instagram game—try Dreamina now.
5. How do I edit the Instagram background with hashtags?
6. Adding hashtags to your Instagram backgrounds is easy with Dreamina's Text overlay feature. Simply remove your original background, add a new one, then use the Text tool to place hashtags exactly where you want them. Create eye-catching designs that boost engagement while maintaining a clean, professional look. Start designing with Dreamina today.