How to Post a GIF on Instagram?

GIFs, short for Graphics Interchange Format, have become a popular way to add a bit of motion and excitement to your Instagram posts. They offer a unique visual experience that keeps users engaged and adds a fun element to your content. Instagram, a popular social media platform, primarily focuses on sharing visual content, including photos and videos. However, with the growing demand for animated content, the ability to post GIFs (Graphics Interchange Format) has become increasingly relevant. While Instagram doesn't directly support GIF uploads, users can still share short, looping video clips that mimic the effect of GIFs. In this article, we will introduce how to post a GIF on Instagram and provide some tips for using them effectively.

Part 1: Best 3 Methods to Post GIFs on Instagram?

Before we begin, it's important to note that Instagram currently only supports videos (.mp4) and images (.png), and does not directly support GIFs (.gif). But we can convert GIF into a GIF-like mini video and then post it to Instagram. There are various tools available for both PC and mobile devices to facilitate this process.

1. Converting GIF to MP4 video with HitPaw Video Converter

Since Instagram allows users to post a video that is up to 15 seconds. Specifically speaking, MP4 video is the best alternative for an animated GIF file. Now you need HitPaw Video Converter, a versatile and efficient software that can help you in performing this GIF conversion task. With HitPaw Video Converter, not only you can convert GIFs to video, but also download videos from Instagram, YouTube, Netflix, etc.

Watch the video to learn more details

Main features of HitPaw Video Converter

• Support convert file between 1000+ formats, including convert GIF to MP4 or MP4 to GIF
• Batch conversion GIF to MP4 video with 120x fast speed
• Download video and GIF from 10000+ websites with high quality
• Offer many presets that suitable for social media and devices
• Provide versatile editing features to enrich your video story, such as merge, cut, rotate, watermark, filter, and more

How to convert GIF to MP4 video

• Step 1: Download and install the HitPaw Video Converter on your computer.

  
  

• Step 2: Launch the software and select 'Add Files' to upload your GIF file.

  

• Step 3: Click on the inverted triangle icon to select MP4 as the output format for your file. Also, you can turn to the 'Social Video' section, click the 'Instagram' button, and choose an output format for your video.

  

• Step 4: After choose the format, then click the 'Convert' or 'Convert All' to start conversion.

  

• Step 5: Once the conversion is finished, you can find the file in the 'Converted' tab. Click "Open Folder" to view it.

  

• Step 6: Finally, open your Instagram app, choose the converted file from your device, and upload it to your profile to engage viewers.

2. Using the GIPHY app to upload and share GIFs to Instagram

GIPHY is a leading provider of animated GIFs and stickers, offering a vast library of creative and trending content. It allows you to search your favorite gifs, even create your unique gifs, and then post them to social media like Instagram, Facebook, X, and others. The steps below are for your reference to share and upload animated gifs to Instagram.

• Step 1: First, download and install the Giphy app.

• Step 2: Open this application and log into your account.

• Step 3: Search for the GIF you want to post on Instagram, you can also create a unique GIF by yourself.

• Step 4: Click the share icon on the bottom right side of the GIF.

• Step 5: Choose the Instagram icon from the sharing options. Then follow the steps to post the GIF on Instagram.

  

3. Posting GIFs on Instagram by Boomerang Feature

Using the Boomerang function to create short videos is also a great way to share GIFs on Instagram. They record videos with a looping effect-resembling an animated-like GIF. Meanwhile, you don't need an extra app for the feature; Instagram has integrated the feature directly. You can create a Boomerang directly on Instagram in just a few steps.

• Step 1: Go to your Instagram home page and tap the infinity 'Your Story' icon on the left side of your screen.

• Step 2: Create the Boomerang. By tapping and holding the circle icon for a few seconds, Instagram will shoot multiple images and create a Boomerang looping video.

• Step 3: Finally, click Your Story to share the looping GIF on your Instagram Story.

Part 2: FAQs about post GIFs on Instagram

In Summary

To sum up, posting a GIF on Instagram can be a great way to add personality and engagement to your content. After reading this article, you may know how to post a gif on Instagram. By using third-party software like HitPaw Video Converter, GIPHY, and other tools, you can upload and share your animated GIFs on Instagram with ease.