How do I add captions to an Instagram Story?

Drop your Story clip into ReelCaption, keep the lines short, and place the captions in the center of the frame. Then export the MP4 and add it to your Story.

Where should captions go in a Story?

In the middle of the frame. Stories show your profile at the top and the reply bar at the bottom.

Will captions still show if the viewer mutes?

Yes. Burned-in captions are part of the picture, so they show with or without sound.

Yes. Your first 2 clips, up to 60 seconds each, need no account. Sign in with Google for 5 free minutes a month, with no card. Pro is $5 a month for 100 minutes.

Captions for · Instagram Stories

Add captions to Instagram Stories

People tap through Stories fast, often with the sound off. Captions let them get your point before they tap forward. ReelCaption transcribes your Story clip and lets you place the captions inside the part of the frame Instagram leaves clear.

Caption a video free

Step by step

1Drop in your Story clip, filmed vertical 9:16.
2Fix any misheard words on the timeline.
3Switch the grouping to one word at a time, or split captions so each line is short.
4Place the captions in the middle of the frame, clear of your profile name at the top and the reply bar at the bottom.
5Export the MP4 and add it to your Story.

Tips for Instagram Stories

Stories put your profile picture and name at the top and the reply bar at the bottom. Keep captions in the center.
Instagram can split a long video into several Story frames, so keep each caption short enough to finish before a cut.
If you plan to add stickers or a link in Instagram, leave space for them when you place the captions.
Burned-in captions show with the sound off, and they stay put when you add the clip to a Highlight.

Why ReelCaption

One-word-at-a-time grouping for Stories people tap through quickly.
Drag the captions anywhere in the frame, and the export keeps them there.
The MP4 stays full-screen vertical, with no watermark.
2 clips free with no account, then 5 free minutes a month when you sign in with Google. No card.

FAQ

How do I add captions to an Instagram Story?: Drop your Story clip into ReelCaption, keep the lines short, and place the captions in the center of the frame. Then export the MP4 and add it to your Story.
Where should captions go in a Story?: In the middle of the frame. Stories show your profile at the top and the reply bar at the bottom.
Will captions still show if the viewer mutes?: Yes. Burned-in captions are part of the picture, so they show with or without sound.
Is it free?: Yes. Your first 2 clips, up to 60 seconds each, need no account. Sign in with Google for 5 free minutes a month, with no card. Pro is $5 a month for 100 minutes.

Guides for other platforms

Caption your next clip in a couple of minutes.