Let’s be real—Instagram filters aren’t just for dog ears and flower crowns anymore. They’re a vibe, a branding tool, and sometimes even a flex.
If you’ve ever scrolled through stories and thought, “I wish I had my own filter”, guess what? You totally can. And no, you don’t need to be a tech wizard.
In this guide, Insiderbits will show you how to create an Instagram filter faster than it takes to pick the right selfie angle. Whether you’re a small business, an influencer, or just someone who loves AR sparkles, let’s dive in.
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Step-by-Step: How to Create an Instagram Filter
The easiest way to create an Instagram filter used to be Spark AR Studio, but since Meta discontinued it, BrandXR Studio has emerged as the top alternative for pro-level AR effects. If you want something simpler, apps like PicsArt and Canva offer drag-and-drop options.
BrandXR Studio
Best for: Custom, advanced filters with professional effects.
4.4/5
Why use it? The go-to replacement for Spark AR—supports face/body tracking, 3D objects, and interactive effects.
PicsArt
Best for: quick, trendy designs with minimal effort.
Why use it? Pre-made templates + easy editing = Insta-worthy filters in minutes.
Canva
Best for: Branding-friendly templates and polished overlays.
Why use it? Drag-and-drop simplicity for logos, text, and aesthetic vibes.
Pro tip: BrandXR has a gentler learning curve than Spark AR, with built-in tutorials for beginners.
Start with a Template (Because Reinventing the Wheel is Overrated)
Open BrandXR and choose a template—like a face tracker (for selfie effects) or world tracker (for environment AR). Want floating hearts or branded 3D objects? They’ve got presets for that.
Customize Like a Boss
Here’s where you get creative:
- Add animations (sparkles, glitches, or even a mini-you dancing in the corner);
- Play with colors to match your brand or mood;
- Throw in text or logos (subtle flex: “Filter by @YourHandle”).
Avoid this rookie mistake: overloading your filter. Less is usually more.
Test Before You Launch (Unless You Enjoy Glitchy Embarrassment)
BrandXR has a test on device features. Scan a QR code and try it live before submitting. Trust me, you don’t want your masterpiece turning users into pixelated zombies.
Submit & Wait for Approval
Upload your filter to BrandXR’s Hub, fill in the deets (name, category, tags), and submit. Approval takes 1-2 days. Once live, share it on your profile and stories!
Best Tools and Apps for Custom Filters
Not into Spark AR? No sweat. Here are alternatives:
- PicsArt: Super intuitive, with pre-made effects;
- Canva: Ideal for branded overlays (think: event promotions);
- BONUS: Instagram’s Effect Gallery (for quick, no-edit options).
Fun fact: some of the most viral filters started as experiments. Don’t overthink it!
Benefits of Having Your Own Instagram Filter
Why bother? Oh, just because:
Custom Instagram filters aren’t just fun, they’re low-key marketing gold. Imagine your logo subtly popping up every time someone uses your filter—that’s free advertising without the awkward sales pitch.
Plus, let’s be real, people go feral for interactive content. A clever filter can turn passive scrollers into engaged users, racking up shares and saves faster than you can say “viral.”
Remember that “Which Disney Princess Are You?” filter that took over everyone’s stories? Exactly. A well-designed filter doesn’t just ride trends—it creates them.
Whether you’re building a personal brand or promoting a business, a signature filter is like leaving your digital fingerprint all over the ‘gram.
And the best part? Once it’s out there, it works for you 24/7 while you sleep, eat, or binge-watch Netflix. Not bad for a few minutes of setup, huh?
Tips to Make Your Filter Go Viral
- Keep it simple: filters that work flawlessly get shared more;
- Trendjack: tie it to a meme or holiday (hello, Halloween ghost face);
- Promote it: share it in stories, collabs, and reels with a “Try my filter!” CTA.
Ready to Create an Instagram Filter?
Now that you know how to create an Instagram filter, what’s stopping you? Whether it’s for fun, followers, or your brand, AR is the future—and it’s stupidly easy to jump in.
Need inspo? Check out Instagram’s Effect Gallery or our guide on photo-editing apps.
Go on—make something awesome.
