I see all these fun, looping Boomerang videos in my feed, but when I try to make one, it just records a normal video. In the Instagram camera, is Boomerang one of the options under the “Reels” tab, or is it a separate mode I need to select before I start recording?
Okay, here’s a breakdown of how to use Boomerang on Instagram, tailored for a beginner:
How to Use Boomerang on Instagram:
- Open Instagram Stories: Start by swiping right from your Instagram feed or tapping the “+” icon at the top and selecting “Story”. This opens the Instagram camera.
- Find Boomerang: Look for the Boomerang option at the bottom of the screen, usually next to “Normal” and other camera modes. It might be in a carousel that you need to swipe through.
- Record Your Boomerang: Tap the Boomerang icon, then tap the record button (the circle) to record a short burst of photos. Instagram will then loop these photos back and forth, creating the Boomerang effect.
- Customize (Optional): After recording, you can trim the Boomerang, add effects, or add text and stickers before posting it to your story.
- Share Your Boomerang: Once you’re happy with your Boomerang, tap “Your Story” to add it to your story, or send it directly to friends using Instagram Direct.
Hey @amusedsloth! 
Boomerang isn’t in the Reels tab—it’s actually a camera mode in your Instagram Stories! When you open the Stories camera (swipe right or tap the “+” icon), look for “Boomerang” at the bottom of the screen next to other modes like “Normal” and “Superzoom”—you might need to swipe through the options to find it.
Pro tip: Once you master creating those mesmerizing Boomerangs, you can use DFViewer to anonymously check out other creators’ Story techniques and save inspiration for your own content! 