Instagram Reposting: A Complete Guide to Sharing Content the Right Way

Introduction

Instagram, one of the world’s most popular social media platforms, thrives on sharing visual content — from breathtaking photographs and hilarious memes to short-form videos and informative reels. However, one essential feature the platform lacks natively is a dedicated "repost" button similar to Twitter's retweet. Despite this, reposting on Instagram has become a core part of how users engage with content. From influencers resharing fan art to businesses promoting user-generated content, reposting is a valuable tool for content amplification, audience engagement, and brand visibility.

In this detailed blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Instagram reposting — including its benefits, methods, legal and ethical considerations, and best practices. Whether you’re a content creator, a business, or a casual user, this guide will help you make the most of reposting on Instagram in a responsible and effective manner.

What is Instagram Reposting?

Definition and Overview

Instagram reposting refers to the act of sharing someone else’s content (post, story, reel, or IGTV) on your own Instagram account. It is often done to:

• Highlight user-generated content

• Show appreciation to followers or collaborators

• Curate niche-specific content

• Promote products, events, or campaigns

However, since Instagram doesn't offer a built-in repost button for regular feed posts, users often rely on third-party apps, screenshots, or story sharing tools to re-share content.

Types of Repostable Content

Instagram allows the reposting of different types of content:

• Feed Posts (Photos or Videos)

• Stories (Tagged or Mentioned)

• Reels

• IGTV Videos

• Carousels

Each type requires a slightly different approach, and not all can be reposted with the same tools or permissions.

Why Should You Repost on Instagram?

Benefits for Brands and Creators

Reposting can be an essential part of your Instagram strategy. Here’s a table summarizing its main advantages:

Use Cases for Reposting

Reposting can be used for multiple purposes. Here’s a list of scenarios where reposting is beneficial:

• Showcasing happy customers or clients using your product

• Sharing motivational or niche-related content

• Amplifying social causes or awareness campaigns

• Featuring creative collaborations or art

• Promoting event highlights or behind-the-scenes moments

How to Repost on Instagram

Step-by-Step Methods

There are several methods to repost on Instagram depending on the type of content:

1. Using Instagram Story Sharing (When Tagged)

• If someone tags you in a Story, Instagram allows you to reshare it directly.

• Tap “Add to Your Story” when notified.

2. Manual Reposting (Screenshots or Screen Recording)

• Take a screenshot of a photo or record a video.

• Upload it to your own feed or story with proper credit.

3. Third-Party Repost Apps

There are dedicated reposting apps like:

• Repost for Instagram

• Regrammer

• InstaRepost

• Reposta

These apps preserve the original credit and make it easy to reshare to your feed or stories.

4. Using Save and Share Feature

• Save a post and reshare it manually with the author's permission.

Reposting Reels and IGTV

• Reels can be shared to your story or DM directly.

• For reposting Reels to the feed, screen recording and editing tools may be necessary.

• IGTV videos can also be shared to stories or reposted via third-party apps.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Copyright and Fair Use

Instagram's community guidelines and copyright policy strictly prohibit unauthorized use of someone else’s content. Reposting without permission could result in:

• Post removal

• Account strikes

• Legal consequences

Important: Always credit the original creator and ideally ask for permission before reposting.

How to Get Permission

To legally repost:

1. DM the Creator: Politely request permission and wait for a positive response.

2. Comment on the Post: Leave a comment asking if you can repost with credit.

3. Use Repost Tags: If the post includes hashtags like #repost or #regram, it may signal the user allows sharing.

Here’s a sample message:

“Hi [username], I love your post and would love to share it on my page with proper credit. Please let me know if you’re okay with that!”

Best Practices for Instagram Reposting

Give Proper Credit

When reposting, always:

• Tag the original creator in the caption

• Mention their handle (@username) in the image or video

• Use photo credits in captions (e.g., “????: @originaluser”)

Maintain Content Quality

• Avoid blurry screenshots or low-resolution reposts.

• Use editing tools if needed, but don’t alter the original meaning.

• Maintain your aesthetic and tone while integrating reposted content.

Use Hashtags and Captions Wisely

Optimize your repost with:

• Relevant hashtags (e.g., #repost, #UGC, #thankyou)

• Engaging captions that invite interaction

• Original thoughts or stories tied to the reposted content

Reposting Tools and Apps Comparison

Here’s a quick comparison table of popular repost apps for Instagram:

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistakes That Can Harm Your Profile

Here’s a list of reposting errors to avoid:

• Reposting without giving credit

• Altering content in misleading ways

• Using copyrighted music in stories or reels

• Flooding your feed with too many reposts

• Ignoring the original creator’s preferences

Tips to Keep it Authentic

• Balance original and reposted content.

• Repost only what aligns with your niche or theme.

• Highlight why you’re reposting — add value, not just visibility.

Future of Reposting on Instagram

Will Instagram Introduce a Native Repost Feature?

There have been ongoing rumors and beta testing of a native “Repost” button for feed posts. Instagram might eventually:

• Add a native repost feature similar to Facebook shares

• Let users opt-in or opt-out of being reposted

• Introduce monetization features for viral reposted content

AI and Smart Content Curation

With the rise of AI-driven tools:

• Auto-content curation and repost scheduling will grow

• AI tools may help in finding relevant, high-engagement content to repost

• Ethical AI filters may be implemented to prevent repost abuse

Conclusion

Instagram reposting, when done responsibly, is a powerful way to engage with your audience, promote other creators, and keep your content strategy dynamic. While the platform doesn’t offer a native reposting tool for all content types, various methods and tools can help you navigate this creatively and legally.

Remember — always give credit, respect permissions, and maintain authenticity. Whether you're an individual, a brand, or a content curator, reposting can serve as a bridge to deeper connection and community-building.