Creating a fun and engaging Instagram story just got easier. Instagram has given users an early present this holiday season. The latest app update brings with it a new story feature that could finally bring an end to those million-part Instagram stories.
Layouts is the latest feature to join the expanding list of Instagram story options. Instagram users can now create and share photo collages all through a single Instagram story post. Users have been asking for this feature for a long time, so it makes for a nice present under the virtual tree.
If you’re thinking to yourself, ‘Wait, I’ve totally seen people do that way before this week!’ you’re not wrong.
Until now many users have been utilizing third-party apps to achieve the collage style photos you sometimes see on Instagram stories. Through this process you would first take multiple photos then edit them using the app of your choice, create a collage using probably a different app, download the collage photo, then upload to Instagram stories. Not exactly the off-the-cuff style communication that Instagram envisioned for their stories feature.
Layouts means users can finally say goodbye to some of those third-party apps and get back to creating more authentic content for their audiences. Any update that means I can remove a few apps off my phone is a win in my book.
The new feature has already rolled out globally on the app. To access the new feature simply open up Instagram and head to the story’s options in the top left corner. From here you should be able to see all of the options available by swiping left until you see Layouts. The screen will be split into four parts and you will be prompted to take the upper left photo first.
The applications for the Layouts feature are endless. This could be a great option when designing a quick, but nuanced, snapshot of an event you’re attending or hosting. Layouts can also be used comedically by having the images interact with each other. Remember to get creative by utilizing other the story features in your collage such as text and stickers.
Layouts is a new, low-budget, opportunity for your business to create engaging content that resonates with your audience.
Staff Writer, Natalie Gonzalez earned her B.A. in English and a Creative Writing Certificate from the University of Texas at Austin. She is a writer and social media nerd with a passion for building online communities.
