How to Download Your Own Instagram Reels — Official Guide
Only download Reels and videos you own. Instagram provides official ways to save your own content — use those.
Method 1 — Save your Reel from the app
- Open your Reel → tap the three dots (⋯).
- Choose “Save to device” or “Download”. Your own Reel saves to your camera roll.
- Note: downloaded Reels may include the Instagram watermark on some accounts.
Method 2 — Download Your Information (full backup)
- Profile → Menu → Your activity → Download your information.
- Request your photos and videos. Instagram emails a link when the archive is ready.
Method 3 — Save drafts before posting
- Open a draft Reel before publishing.
- Choose “Save to camera roll” so you always keep a clean copy, even if the post is later deleted.
What not to do
- Do not download other people's Reels to re-post as your own — use Share, Remix or Collab instead, with the creator's permission.
- Do not use third-party “Reels downloader” apps that ask for your Instagram login.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my saved Reel have a watermark?
Instagram adds a watermark to some downloads. Keep the pre-post draft copy instead — it is clean.
Can I download a Reel I was tagged in?
Only the creator can download it. Ask them to send it to you, or use Share to repost it properly.