How to create an Instagram meme that breaks the internet

Memes are bite-sized posts that are saturated with insanely relatable humor. Plus, they gain mega traction online, on TV and beyond. So, if you're wondering how to make a meme on Instagram so that you can get in on the action too, let's talk.

In this article, we'll discuss why memes are great and why every brand needs to seriously consider doing them. We'll also give you a step-by-step on how to create a meme on Instagram.

Why memes are so ferociously popular

Memes break the internet over and over again. They're usually comical, blazingly relatable and wildly specific.

Even though they tend to be clever, you don't have to be a genius or comedian to come up with one yourself. Most memes depict situations that we all experience or thoughts that we all have.

And now, with so many Instagram meme makers out there, anyone can create their own meme!

Why do memes make phenomenal Instagram content?

Answer: Viewers interact with them like crazy! Many accounts see massive spikes in their profile visits, likes, comments, shares and saves when they post one.

This happens because memes are bite-sized, funny, shareable and taggable. If one person sees the meme, they want their friends to see it too. So, they'll tag them in the comments, and the engagement just keeps on building.

Even if your branding is ultra-serious and professional, you should definitely consider posting a meme to Instagram.

Not only are they entertaining, they are a non-salesy way to promote your brand on the platform. It shows your audience that you are fun and relatable. Plus, if thousands of people are going nuts over your meme, the Instagram algorithm will take notice, helping all of your content rank higher and higher.

How to use Instagram's tools to make memes

Let's talk about how to make memes on Instagram!

There are various ways to share memes (and gifs, which are video memes) on Instagram. One of the fastest and easiest ways to create a meme is in Instagram Stories.

Create an Instagram meme in Stories

Find a photo that you would like to use in your meme. Save it to your phone. Once you open up your Instagram Stories tab (as if you were going to create a Story), here is a step-by-step:

Choose a photo to upload into your Story.
Select the "add text" icon, and write your meme.
Modify and move the text around as you like.
Share the meme in your Instagram Story!

Super easy, right? While your new meme may not have that classic meme format, this is one way to create a meme and share it quickly. This method is perfect if you want to stay abreast of trending events.

Create a meme for Instagram Feed

You can also post memes to the main Feed so that they show up on your page and stay on the platform. However, you'll have to do some work outside of Instagram first.

There are all kinds of meme maker apps for Instagram. Some will specifically help you create a meme and post it. Others, like Canva, pull in meme and gif integrations within their software.

Regardless, you'll want a meme maker that enables you to create your own meme with some (or all) of the following features:

Upload your own photos.
Pull from existing meme-worthy images.
Superimpose images over a plain background (if you want).
Add text on the image or plain background.
Save the meme (without watermarks) onto your phone.
Post it on Instagram.

Make sure your meme file fits the 1:1 square Instagram Feed dimensions! You don't want part of your text to be cut off, otherwise you risk people missing the punch line.

Tips for making a successful Instagram meme

If you're a little nervous about flexing your creative energy to create your own meme, here are some extra tips to make your meme more likable, shareable and internet explodable.

Seek out #memespiration

Follow Instagram meme accounts, that is! Just getting some daily exposure to funny memes will get the juices flowing for your own. Some meme accounts you may want to follow:

@sarcasm_only
@fuckjerry
@epicfunnypage
@thefatjewish
@funnymemes

As a brand, you may want to clean up your memes so they are a bit more professional. But it's up to you. Sometimes the funniest memes are a little... spicy!

Make your memes about you

Even though you may have a super funny meme idea that is totally unrelated to your brand, try your hardest to tie your memes into what you do. Even if you can remotely relate your meme to your business, that counts.

Watch for meme trends on Instagram

Be relevant by staying up to date with new and popular memes. Not only will you look like you're in-the-know, you can also ride the wave and get picked up by the Instagram algorithm. Plus, when you couple your custom memes with the right Instagram hashtags, you'll be golden!

Keep your meme message short

Just like clever and snappy copywriting, try to minimize long sentences. The nature of Instagram memes is easy to read and succinct. So in short, the less you can say while still being clear, is best.

Pull from everyday life

One of the biggest struggles is to figure out what your meme should be about. Don't just sit down and rack your brain for something funny. Instead, go about your day and take note of things that frustrate you, things that bore you, things you obsess over and other strong emotions.

If you're trying to tie your Instagram meme to your business, here are some clever meme ideas:

Memes depicting common frustrations customers face (before they buy your products)
Memes showing what life is like with your products, in a funny way
Memes mimicking the stress your clients face without you
Memes debunking common misconceptions surrounding your industry

These Instagram meme ideas can tie perfectly into your current marketing strategy on the platform. Just take your Instagram marketing campaigns and make them a little funnier and a little more concise. And bam! Your meme is born.

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