How to Zoom in/Out in Instagram Stories

Shanoon Cox

May 15, 2025• Proven solutions

Want to add that perfect dramatic effect or highlight a key moment with an Instagram Story zoom? Many users wonder how to zoom in on Instagram Stories effectively, and some even ask, "why can't I zoom in on Instagram Stories?" Whether you're looking to master the 'Superzoom' feature, standard zoom controls, or troubleshoot why your insta story zoom isn't working, you're in the right place.

This guide breaks down 4 simple methods to zoom in and out on your Instagram Stories. Plus, we'll explore common reasons you might be unable to zoom and provide actionable solutions. Let's get your Insta zoom story looking exactly how you envision it!

• Part 1: How to Zoom In/Out in Instagram Stories [4 Ways]
• Part 2: Why Can't I Zoom In on Instagram Stories? (And How to Fix It)
• Part 3: Edit Instagram Videos with Excellent Video Editor

Part 1: How to Zoom In/Out in Instagram Stories

1. Using the Normal Mode Zoom:

How to Zoom In/On Instagram Stories 

You can zoom in/out while clicking a picture for Instagram Stories, by pinching the screen in 'Normal' mode. Follow the steps below.

1. Zoom in Normal Mode: Pinch the screen to zoom in and out while viewing a picture.
2. Zoom While Recording: Press the record button, then slide your finger up or down to adjust the zoom level during video recording.
3. Hands-Free Zooming: Enable Hands-Free mode and use pinch gestures to zoom in and out throughout the video.

Image resource: later.com

Note: Make sure to hold your finger on the record button while zooming in/out, or else the recording will stop.

2. Zooming in Rewind Mode

Image resource: techjunkie.com

We know a video in 'Rewind' mode is pretty cute and funny, as the chain of events occurs in the reverse order. So, to zoom in/out while shooting one such video in 'Rewind' mode, you need to press the record button and then swipe up/down your finger, just like in the 'Normal' mode. Here also, if you remove your finger, the recording will stop. Master how to zoom in Instagram Stories, while recording in 'Rewind' mode.

3. Creating Zoom Effects with Boomerang & Superzoom

Image resource: metro.com

Shooting a video in 'Boomerang' is exciting while creating Instagram Stories. We will explain to you how to zoom in/out Instagram Stories in 'Superzoom' mode in Boomerang. Press your record button longer and slide your finger up/down to zoom in/out, while recording the video for your Insta Stories. As long as you hold the button, the recording continues until it reaches the maximum duration.

4. Hands-Free Instagram Story Zoom Techniques

Image resource: later.com

There are two-options while you want to zoom in/out using the 'Hands-Free' mode. You can pinch the screen and zoom in or out prior to recording the video. Now, tap the record button, the video will be automatically recorded after a few seconds. Remember! You are using the 'Hands-Free' mode, so no holding the record button. The second method is similar to the previous methods of zooming in/out videos for Instagram Stories. Tap the record button and wait till the point where you want to zoom in/out. At that very point, hold the record button and slide your finger up/down to zoom in/out the video. This is how to zoom in/out Instagram Stories using 'Hands-Free' mode.

Be it a 'Boomerang', 'Rewind', 'Hands-Free', or 'Normal' mode video, learning how to zoom in Instagram Stories is sure to make your stories cool and funky.

Part 2: Why Can't I Zoom In on Instagram Stories? (And How to Fix It)

Common Reasons for Instagram Story Zoom Problems

If you're wondering "why can't I zoom in on Instagram Stories?", you're not alone. Several factors can prevent the zoom feature from working correctly. Here are some common culprits:

• Outdated Instagram App: An old version of the app might lack the latest features or have bugs. Ensure your Instagram app is updated to the latest version from the App Store or Google Play Store.
• Poor Internet Connection: While zooming is primarily a local function, a very unstable connection might interfere with some Instagram functionalities.
• App Glitches or Bugs: Sometimes, the app itself might have temporary glitches. Restarting the app or your phone can often resolve these.
• Camera Permissions: Ensure Instagram has the necessary permissions to access your camera fully. Check your phone's settings.
• Specific Instagram Mode Issues: Some users report zoom issues specifically within certain modes (e.g., a filter is active that conflicts). Try switching modes or removing filters.
• Device Compatibility: Older devices or operating systems might not fully support all Instagram features smoothly.
• Instagram Server Issues: Rarely, Instagram itself might be experiencing temporary server-side problems affecting certain features. You can check Downdetector or social media for widespread reports.

Quick Fixes When Your Insta Story Zoom Fails

Try these troubleshooting steps if your insta story zoom isn't cooperating:

1. Update Instagram: This is the most common fix. Go to your app store and check for updates.
2. Restart the Instagram App: Close the app completely and reopen it.
3. Restart Your Phone: A simple reboot can solve many minor software conflicts.
4. Check Internet Connection: Ensure you have a stable Wi-Fi or cellular data connection.
5. Clear Instagram Cache (Android): For Android users, clearing the app cache can sometimes resolve issues. Go to Settings > Apps > Instagram > Storage > Clear Cache.
6. Reinstall Instagram: As a last resort, try uninstalling and reinstalling the app. Make sure you remember your login details.
7. Check for Conflicting Apps or Settings: Rarely, other apps or specific phone settings might interfere.

By addressing these potential issues, you should be able to resolve why you can't zoom in on Instagram and get back to creating engaging stories.

Part 3: Edit Instagram Videos with Wondershare Filmora

Editing Instagram videos is not difficult at all as long as you have installed a powerful yet easy-to-use video editing tool. Luckily, Wondershare Filmora is one of them, allowing you to customize your videos according to your needs. Even without any formal training, you can easily create stunning Instagram Stories using Filmora, which serves as an excellent Instagram story maker for both beginners and experienced creators alike.

Key Features to Help You Zoom on Instagram

• Pan & Zoom Effect: Use Filmora’s Pan & Zoom feature to create smooth zoom effects. You can start with a full-frame view and gradually zoom in to focus on a specific subject.
• Auto Reframe: Automatically adjust your video’s aspect ratio to fit Instagram’s recommended sizes (e.g., 9:16 for vertical videos) using Filmora’s AI-powered Auto Reframe tool.
• Customizable Zoom Settings: Fine-tune your zoom effect by adjusting the zoom speed, duration, and timing to create a unique, eye-catching effect.
• Cross-Platform Editing: Edit your videos on desktop, mobile, or tablet, and export them directly to Instagram, ensuring your content is optimized for any platform.
• AI-Enhanced Editing: Utilize Filmora’s AI features to enhance your video quality and make editing seamless.

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Final Verdict

We know that you have got a fair idea about using the various Instagram filters to create the most happening Instagram Stories and put your friends in awe. We are sure that the methods mentioned above have made you learn capturing videos in zoom in a quick and easy way. But, it's up to you to decide the best speed while capturing and customizing the video content to make it stand out.

Understanding not only how to zoom in Instagram Stories, but also knowing how to edit it with the right background music will make them more appealing. You need to be a little careful while shooting videos in zoom as the video resolution gets affected and turns shaky. Never mind, beyond all the little restraints, Instagram Stories are the coolest stuff to experiment with, while you curate interesting videos.

Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox is a writer and a lover of all things video.

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