Updated on April 15, 2025

Ever seen those fun, eye-catching clips on Instagram that loop back and forth like a mini video rewind? That’s a Boomerang — one of Instagram’s most playful and engaging features. Whether you’re jumping into a pool, clinking glasses, flipping your hair, or just capturing a quick, quirky moment, Boomerangs are the perfect way to breathe life into your Stories and Reels.

But here’s the thing: Creating a Boomerang isn’t just about tapping a button — it’s about timing, creativity, and knowing where to find the feature (because, yes, Instagram likes to hide it sometimes). Don’t worry, though — we’ve got you covered with a simple step-by-step guide, plus pro tips to help you stand out on the feed. Let’s dive in and turn your everyday moments into endlessly looping fun.

What Is Boomerang on Instagram?

A boomerang video is a type of looping clip that plays back and forth several times, creating a fun and engaging motion effect. Unlike a GIF, which continuously loops in one direction, a boomerang video plays forward and then reverses, creating a seamless back-and-forth effect.

Boomerang videos can be used to capture a perfectly timed splash or a dramatic hair flip, and are popular on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok for their engaging effect. To create a boomerang video, users can utilize various tools and methods, including Instagram’s built-in boomerang feature, third-party apps like FlexClip, or iPhone’s Live Photos feature.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Make a Boomerang on Instagram

You don’t need the latest smartphone to craft a funny Boomerang. Here’s how to get started:

Here is how to make a Boomerang on Instagram:

1. Open Instagram App: Launch the Instagram app on your mobile device.
2. Swipe Right or Tap Camera Icon: On your home feed, swipe right from your feed or click the ‘+’ icon. This is your control center, where you can take a photo, video, or a Boomerang.
3. Switch to Boomerang Mode: Pick ‘Boomerang.’: Look at the bottom of the screen for the carousel of options and select ‘Boomerang.’ Or, in ‘Normal’ mode, you can press and hold the record button to skip right to the Boomerang magic.
4. Shoot Video: Tap the shutter button to start filming. Instagram will quickly capture multiple photos and stitch them into a mini video.
5. Post or Share: Once recorded, your Boomerang is ready for a makeover. You can add filters, text, or stickers before saving it to your camera roll or sharing it. You can also add text to personalize your video.

Putting your Boomerang into the world can be a way to share a smile, a wave, or even just a sip of your morning coffee in a memorable and loop-tastic way. Look for the save option in the top right corner of the screen.

How do you boomerang an existing video on Instagram?

I already have a great video and think, “Wow, this would make an awesome Boomerang clip.” Instagram itself won’t help you there, but third-party apps stand by. You can also create a Boomerang directly within Instagram by using an existing video or a live photo from your camera roll. These are like friendly elves that turn your video into a Boomerang. Just download one of these apps and follow the steps it gives you.

How to Create a Boomerang for Instagram Stories

Making a Boomerang for your Instagram Stories is like the steps listed above but with extra flair. Once you record your Boomerang, you can deck it out with all sorts of story-specific frills, like shoutouts to your friends with @mentions or even a soundtrack. But remember – unless you save your Story as a Highlight, it’ll disappear after 24 hours.

How to Post a Boomerang on Instagram

When it’s time to let your Boomerang fly into the Instagram feed, upload your video from your local device, mobile device, or cloud service.

• Hit the ‘+’: This is your gateway. It takes you to where all your photos and videos hang out. Use the Boomerang video tap feature to start editing.
• Choose Your Boomerang: Scan through your memories and pick the Boomerang you want to share with the world.
• Make it Shine: Instagram lets you make your Boomerang even better before you post. Crop it, slap on some color with a filter, or add a few words to tell the Story.
• Share: Once it looks just right, tap ‘Share‘ to unleash your Boomerang into the wild – your feed.

In case you want to grow the views and likes of your boomerang videos, visit BuzzVoice services to get a better performance.

How to Make Boomerang Longer?

Boomerangs are usually quick and quirky, but sometimes, you want to savor the loop a little longer. While Instagram likes to keep Boomerangs brief, certain apps have walked through the door saying, “We can fix that!” They can extend your video, slow it down to half speed, or switch up the looping style to your liking. Additionally, the slow-mo effect can alter the playback speed, allowing for enhanced visual storytelling by extending the duration of the video while adding a dramatic flair.

Enhancing Boomerang Videos

To enhance boomerang videos, users can add music, text, and stickers to make them more engaging. Instagram offers various editing tools and resources, including filters, effects, and trimming options, to enhance Boomerang videos.

Additionally, users can access various widgets and editing tools on platforms like FlexClip to add a professional touch to their Boomerang videos. For example, users can add a motion blur effect to create a “double vision” effect or use the trimming tool to edit the length of their Boomerang videos.

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Uma publicação partilhada por Columbus Prospere (@whereiscjay)

How to Turn off Boomerang on Instagram

Not in a Boomerang mood? That’s okay. Instagram won’t force you to use it. Don’t tap on the Boomerang option next time you’re in the camera menu; you’ll stick to standard pics and videos. To access the Boomerang feature, tap the infinity icon located on the left side of the screen.

Tips and Best Practices

To create successful boomerang videos, users should focus on the action or movement and ensure that the theme of the boomerang is clear and engaging. Authenticity is more important than perfection when it comes to boomerangs, and users should aim to create content that is fun, creative, and unique.

Additionally, users can learn from others by exploring trending boomerangs and adding their personal touch to create unique and engaging content.

Final Thoughts

Instagram offers a corner of the internet where you can take something simple and skyrocket its fun factor. A Boomerang isn’t just a loop; it’s a nudge to look at life from a whimsical angle, where waves are wavier, grins are more expansive, and every blink can be an adventure.

Boomerang clips make it easy to create engaging and dynamic content on Instagram. Looping videos, similar to animated GIFs, play continuously in a back-and-forth manner, enhancing audience engagement. Plus, it’s a great way to highlight those hidden moments that might be missed.

FAQ

Can I turn a regular video into a Boomerang?

Yes! After recording or uploading a video to your Instagram Story, tap the Boomerang icon (infinity symbol ∞) at the top of the screen. Instagram will convert your clip into a Boomerang-style loop.

How long is a Boomerang on Instagram?

Boomerangs typically last around 1 second, but Instagram automatically loops them to play forward and backward for about 4 seconds total. You can trim or edit the Boomerang before posting.

Can I edit a Boomerang before posting?

Yes! Once you’ve recorded a Boomerang, Instagram lets you trim, adjust speed, and add filters, text, stickers, or effects before sharing it to your Story or Reels.

Why don’t I have the Boomerang feature on Instagram?

If you don’t see the Boomerang option, try updating your Instagram app. If it still doesn’t appear, it might be temporarily unavailable in your region or device. You can also use apps like Boomerang from Instagram (if still available on your app store) or third-party tools like InShot to create similar looping effects.