Before you start
- The Instagram app
Method 1 Download a public Reel
The option appears only for Reels from public accounts whose creators allow downloads. If the Reel uses licensed music, the download may be silent.
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Step 1: Open the Reel
Play the Reel in the Instagram app.
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Step 2: Tap Share
Tap the Share (paper plane) icon.
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Step 3: Tap Download
Tap Download. The video is saved to your gallery with an Instagram logo and the creator’s username.
Method 2 Save your own photos and videos in full quality
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Step 1: Download one of your posts
Open your post, tap ⋯ and choose Download (on Reels and some posts) to save it to your phone.
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Step 2: Keep originals automatically
Go to Profile > ☰ > Archiving and downloading and turn on Save original photos and Save posted videos (names vary by version). Everything you post is saved to your gallery in original quality.
Method 3 Download all your photos at once (highest quality)
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Step 1: Open Accounts Center
Go to Profile > ☰ > Accounts Center > Your information and permissions > Download your information.
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Step 2: Request a download
Choose your Instagram account, select Some of your information > Media (or all), pick Download to device and a date range.
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Step 3: Get the file
Instagram emails you when the file is ready (usually within hours, up to a few days). Download the ZIP within the time limit.
Method 4 Save other people’s photos the right way
Photos belong to the people who took them. Third-party “Instagram downloader” sites often ask for your login, which can get your account hacked. Never enter your password on them.
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Step 1: Save in Instagram
Tap the bookmark icon under the post to add it to Saved in your profile menu. You can organise saves into collections.
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Step 2: Ask for the original
For reuse or printing, message the creator and ask for the file. Many are happy to share if credited.
Troubleshooting
There’s no Download button on a Reel
The account is private or the creator turned off downloads. Save it with the bookmark instead.
My downloaded Reel has no sound
Reels with licensed music download without the audio. Only original audio is included.
The download your information email didn’t arrive
Check spam and that your email in Accounts Center is correct. Large accounts can take a few days.
Frequently asked questions
Does Instagram notify someone if I download their Reel?
No. Downloads aren’t shown to the creator individually.
Can I download Instagram photos in high resolution?
Your own originals come at full quality via Save original photos or Download your information. Instagram doesn’t offer full-resolution downloads of other people’s photos.
Can I download Instagram Stories?
You can save your own Story from the Story viewer (⋯ > Save). For others’ Stories, there’s no official download.
Summary
Use Share > Download for public Reels, turn on Save original photos for your own posts, and use Download your information to get everything at once. For other people’s photos, save them in Instagram or ask the creator.
