The best way to share someone else’s post is the one that keeps their name attached to it. Instagram now has several built-in ways to do that, and they almost always beat downloading and re-uploading.
1. The Repost button
Instagram added a native repost option for public feed posts and Reels. Tap the repost icon (two arrows) under the post. The post appears in a Reposts tab on your profile and can be shown to your followers, with the original creator clearly credited and still receiving the views.
2. Share to your story
Tap the paper-plane icon and choose Add to story. The post appears as a sticker that links back to the original. If the option is missing, the creator turned off story sharing or the account is private.
3. Remix a Reel
Remix lets you record your reaction or response next to the original Reel. Tap ⋯ on the Reel and choose Remix. It only works if the creator allows remixing.
4. Collab posts
If you created something together, use a Collab post: when publishing, tap “Tag people” › “Invite collaborator”. The post appears on both profiles and shares likes and comments.
Reposting by uploading a downloaded file
Sometimes a built-in option doesn’t fit – for example in a compilation or a presentation. If you re-upload someone’s content:
- Ask first. A short direct message is usually all it takes, and many creators are happy to say yes.
- Credit clearly. Tag them in the photo and mention them at the start of the caption (“📸 @username”), not buried after the hashtags.
- Don’t edit out watermarks or signatures.
- Don’t use it commercially – in ads or to sell products – without explicit written permission.
A credit is good manners, but it isn’t a licence. Copyright stays with the creator. Our article on whether downloading Instagram videos is legal explains the basics.