How to Share Someone Else's Video on Instagram Legally
Learn how to legally share someone else's video on Instagram by following copyright rules, using native tools, and properly crediting creators.

How to Share Someone Else's Video on Instagram Legally
Instagram is one of the most popular platforms for sharing visual content, but many users wonder: "How do I share someone else's video on Instagram without breaking the rules?" This comprehensive guide explains Instagram's official policies, content formats, built-in sharing features, permission requirements, ethical considerations, and optimization tips—so you can legally and respectfully repost videos while maximizing your engagement.

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Understanding Instagram's Content Sharing Rules and Copyright Guidelines
Before you repost any video, it’s essential to understand Instagram’s Terms of Use and copyright regulations. You can only post content you’ve created or content you have permission to use. A publicly visible video is not automatically free to repost. Copyright law protects the original creator's rights, and violations can lead to:
- Video removal
- Account restrictions or suspension
- Legal consequences
Key rules to remember:
- Never repost without consent unless using Instagram’s native sharing features.
- Always provide visible credit to the original creator.
- Avoid edits that distort or misrepresent the creator’s intent or work.
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Types of Videos You Can Share on Instagram
Instagram supports several video formats, each with its own rules and sharing options.
Video Type | Max Length | Share Options |
---|---|---|
Reels | Up to 90 seconds | Story share, Remix, DM |
Stories | Up to 60 seconds (per slide) | Direct share, Mention users |
Feed Videos | Up to 60 minutes | Story share (if public), DM |
IGTV (legacy) | Up to 60 minutes | Story share, DM |
Choosing the right format helps ensure that your repost is effective and compliant.
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Using the Built-In Share Features
Instagram offers native tools to share videos legally and easily:
- Direct Message (DM)
- Tap the paper airplane icon to send a video directly to friends or followers.
- Add to Your Story
- Public accounts allow “Add post to your story” for temporary reposts.
- Remix for Reels
- If remixing is enabled, you can film your reaction or additional content alongside the original reel.

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How to Reshare Posts to Your Story With Proper Credit
When reposting to your Story:
- Include the creator’s handle prominently.
- Maintain full visibility of usernames—don't crop or obscure them.
- Add engaging captions to give context (e.g., "Amazing work by @originalcreator").
Pro Tip: Use the "Mention" sticker to make the credit clickable, driving traffic to the creator’s profile.
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Methods for Reposting Videos to Your Feed
If built-in options aren’t available, alternative methods can help—but always secure permission first.
Using Dedicated Repost Apps
Tools like Repost for Instagram or InSaver can:
- Download public videos
- Automatically add credit watermarks
- Post directly to your feed
Screen Recording
On iOS and Android:
- Ask permission before recording.
- Edit to remove unnecessary footage.
- Tag the creator visibly in both the video overlay and caption.
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Why and How to Ask Permission
Even public content requires courtesy and explicit clearance.
Steps:
- Message the creator directly (DM or email from bio).
- State your intended use clearly.
- Offer full credit, tags, and potential linkbacks.
- Retain proof of their approval.
Sample DM:
Hi [Name]! I loved your video on [topic]. May I repost it on my feed, tagging and crediting you? Thanks for considering!
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Best Practices for Giving Credit
Effective crediting maintains transparency and respect:
- Tag in post and media: Keep it visible.
- Mention in caption: Example: “Video by @username.”
- Add watermarks: Using an app.
- Avoid false attribution: Never imply ownership.
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Optimizing Your Repost for Engagement
Once permission and crediting are in place, you can enhance performance:
- Write compelling captions with value-added context.
- Use relevant hashtags for discoverability.
- Post at optimal times based on audience activity data.
- Respond to comments to foster engagement and algorithmic boost.
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Ethical Considerations and Avoiding Copyright Infringement
Legal compliance is not enough; ethics matter:
- Don’t aim to grow solely from others’ work without contributing.
- Avoid deceptive edits.
- Consider privacy: never share personal or private content without explicit agreement.
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Tools and Apps for Reposting Videos Safely
Helpful apps and services can streamline safe reposting:
Tool/App | Platform | Features |
---|---|---|
Repost for Instagram | iOS/Android | Credit watermark, seamless repost |
InSaver | iOS/Android | Download, auto-tagging |
StorySaver | Android | Story downloads, batch saving |
Canva | Web/App | Video editing with visible credits |
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Troubleshooting Common Issues
Missing Share Button:
- The account may be private or sharing disabled.
Remix not available:
- remix permissions may be turned off in settings.
Low video quality:
- Use high-resolution sources and correct upload formats like 1080×1920 for Stories.
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Do’s and Don’ts Summary
Do | Don't |
---|---|
Seek permission beforehand | Post without consent |
Credit the creator visibly | Hide usernames |
Use native sharing tools | Imply false ownership |
Respect private accounts | Expose private content |
Preserve quality | Upload distorted videos |

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Final Thoughts
Sharing someone else’s video on Instagram can be a win-win for you and the original creator—if done legally and respectfully. By following official guidelines, securing permission, and giving appropriate credit, you maintain integrity while fostering genuine connections. Utilize Instagram’s native features or reputable reposting apps, and remember that transparency and respect are the foundation of ethical content sharing.
In the end, you’re not just answering "How do I share someone else's video on Instagram?"—you’re learning how to do it strategically to build engagement and protect your account. Start applying these tips today and grow your presence the right way.