How to Add Instagram Filters to Existing Photos

Introduce

With the advent of social media, our images serve as a visual record of our life, allowing us to share special moments with the world. However, occasionally, those sentimental pictures might require a little something extra to really pop. Instagram filters have developed into a potent tool for editing images, giving them personality, and turning drab snapshots into visually striking works of art.

The good news? You don't have to limit yourself to filtering photos you just took. You may also use the magic of Instagram filters to enhance your already-existing photo library! This opens up a world of possibilities, enabling you to share old photographs from a new angle and give them new life.

But how exactly do you add these coveted filters to your existing photos? Buckle up, because we're about to dive into the various methods and unleash your inner photo editing artist!

3 Methods to Add Instagram Filters

There are several ways to add Instagram filters to your existing photos, each with its own advantages and level of complexity. Let's explore the 3 main methods:

Method 1: Using the Instagram App (Stories & Feed)

The easiest and most practical choice is this one, particularly if you are accustomed to using the Instagram interface. This is how it operates:

1. To reach the Stories camera screen, open the Instagram app and slide left.

2. To access your photo library, tap the square icon located in the lower left corner. Select the image that needs editing.

3. To view the filter carousel, tap the smiling face symbol located in the lower right corner of the screen.

4. Choose your preferred filter by swiping through the available options. To view other options, you can also swipe left or right.

5. Use your finger to slide left or right on the screen to change the filter's strength.

6. Select "Done" in the upper right corner if you're satisfied with the filter. Now, you may embellish your shot with text, stickers, or other artistic elements (optional for Stories).

7. Decide if you want to send your altered picture straight to a buddy, post it to your feed, or add it to your story.

Alternatively, you can also add Instagram filters to existing photos through the regular Feed posting option.

1. Launch the Instagram app and press the bottom-of-the-screen plus symbol (+).

2. Click "Post" after selecting the picture from your library.

3. Tap "Filter" at the bottom of the screen.

4. Follow steps 5-7 from the Stories method to choose and adjust your filter.

5. Add a caption, location tag (optional) and share your photo to your feed.

Method 2: Third-Party Photo Editing Apps (Free & Paid Options)

The world of mobile photo editing apps is vast, offering a wider range of filters and editing tools compared to the Instagram app. Here's what you can expect:

Free Apps:

• VSCO Cam: A popular choice with a curated selection of high-quality filters that emulate classic film stocks.
• Snapseed: Developed by Google, Snapseed offers a robust set of editing tools, including filters, along with advanced features like selective adjustments and brush tools.
• PicsArt: This app goes beyond filters, offering tools for photo manipulation, collage creation, and artistic effects.

Paid Apps:

• Adobe Lightroom Mobile: A powerful editing suite with a vast library of filters and precise control over adjustments. (Subscription required)
• Facetune: Primarily known for its retouching tools, Facetune also offers a range of creative filters and effects.
• Afterlight: This app boasts a collection of trendy filters, along with editing tools for achieving specific aesthetics.

Method 3: Photo Editing Software on Your Computer

For more advanced users or those with a larger collection of photos to edit, photo editing software on your computer offers the most comprehensive editing experience. Popular options include:

• Adobe Photoshop: The industry standard for photo editing, Photoshop offers an overwhelming range of editing tools and filters. (Subscription required)
• GIMP: A free and open-source alternative to Photoshop, GIMP provides a comprehensive set of editing features, including filters.
• Luminar AI: This AI-powered software analyzes your photos and suggests personalized edits, including filters.

Choosing the Perfect Filter

With a plethora of filters at your disposal, how do you pick the one that elevates your photo to the next level? Here are some key considerations:

• Consider the Mood and Theme: Is your photo a vibrant beach scene or a cozy indoor portrait? Select a filter that enhances the overall tone you wish to project. While colder filters like "Mayfair" or "Sierra" suggest a more contemporary look, warmer filters like "Clarendon" or "Valencia" can offer a touch of nostalgia.
• Matching the Filter to the Photo's Subject: Think about what's the main focus of your photo. For a landscape shot, a filter that brings out the natural colors would be perfect; for a portrait, a filter that highlights skin tones might be far more effective.
• Experimentation is Key! Try a variety of filters and discover what appeals to you; don't be scared to experiment. You can freely experiment with several editing apps by previewing the filter before applying it. Additionally, some apps let you stack multiple filters to create a unique look.

Conclusion

A great method to give your old images new life and share them from a different angle is to apply Instagram filters to them. Now that you have the know-how and resources at your disposal, embrace your inner picture editor! Keep in mind that experimentation is essential, so enjoy yourself while producing breathtaking images to present your world.