To post a PDF on Instagram, you can convert your file into an image, link, or video.
Before trying to post a PDF on Instagram, you should know that this platform doesn’t support uploading documents of this format. This is why conversion is the key to successfully sharing PDFs on this social media.
In this article, we will show you how to convert PDFs to images using our PDF editor tool and some other alternative methods for posting this type of file on Instagram. Let’s start!
Key Takeaways
- Posting PDFs on Instagram or sending them via direct messages is possible after transforming such documents into images using a converter tool.
- After conversion, users can create carousels with images and make them more engaging with captions and hashtags.
- You can also share PDFs on this platform by creating a trackable link, using a standard shareable link from document-sharing or cloud sites, or making a video (reel).
- Before posting PDFs on Instagram, you can analyze, protect, and make them more interesting using various PDF tools such as the annotation, chat with PDF, and the watermark feature.
Method 1: Convert PDF to Images for Carousel Post
Since you cannot upload a PDF to Instagram, the easiest way to post such a file is to transform it into an image file format, which this platform supports. You can do so on PDF.net, which allows you to convert a PDF to PNG or other formats, such as JPG, after which you can create a carousel post.
Let’s see how to streamline this process:
#1. Step-by-Step PDF-to-Image Conversion with PDF.net
If you want to ensure you have a file that Instagram supports, you can convert your PDF to an image with PDF.net. The process is easy and quick, and it includes the following steps:
1. Go to our website, hover over the Convert menu, and select the option to convert PDF to JPG or PNG.
2. Upload your document manually by clicking the Choose file button or dragging it into the upload box.
3. In the new window, select JPG or PNG and click Convert to JPG or PNG.
4. Save your converted file by clicking the Download button in the upper-right corner.
#2. Creating Engaging Carousel Posts from PDF Pages
When making an Instagram carousel, it is important to focus on the content and use the features of this platform to make it more suitable for viewers.
For instance, you should handpick the key pages to feature on the carousel. This way, your post won’t be too long but will still include the essential elements of the document. Of course, your images should be ordered so your carousel features a nice and logical content flow.
As Instagram offers captions, you can add one to your post to make it more engaging. Captions should complement your PDF posts, meaning that you can add a short description or share more valuable information below the post.
Posting a PDF on Instagram also involves using hashtags for document-related content, so you should definitely add relevant ones that cover the topic of your post. Also, you need to write hashtags as single words, use the ‘#’ symbol before them, and avoid including many words in one hashtag.
Sometimes, if your original file is too large, the image you get after conversion can also surpass the Instagram image limit. To prevent that, you can resize PDFs before conversion, meaning the images you get after this process will also be of a smaller size and follow Instagram standards.
Method 2: Share a PDF on Instagram Using a Link (Bio or Stories)
Another way to post PDFs on social media, specifically on Instagram, is to create links and share them where your followers can see them. Importantly, you need to find a good link-hosting solution, after which you can insert the link in your bio or share it on your Instagram story.
Let’s see how to do this:
#1. Finding the Right Link-Hosting Solution
Finding the right link-hosting solution is important for two primary reasons: functionality and affordability. Specifically, some companies with cloud computing services may offer cheap prices with slow uploads or unstable servers.
In contrast, some of them may provide high-end services but may also be overpriced. For this reason, we share the top three link-hosting solutions where you don’t need to compromise budget or the service quality:
- Cloud storage options. You can opt for Google Drive, Dropbox, or similar cloud services, where you can upload your file, create a link, and post it on Instagram.
- Document sharing platforms. Sites like Scribd and Issuu allow you to upload various files in different formats, including PDF. Afterwards, you can easily share the link to your document page, where your followers will end up after clicking it.
- Trackable link services. These types of links have built-in parameters that track user activity. So, if you choose this solution, you will be able to share PDFs as a link on Instagram and monitor the network traffic it produces.
#2. Adding PDF Links to Your Instagram Bio
The first method to post a PDF on Instagram as a link is to place it in your bio. This is a straightforward process that takes little time and involves the following steps:
- Create a shareable link to your PDF file and open your Instagram profile.
- Click the Edit Profile button.
3. Copy the link and paste it into the Website field.
4. Click Done in the top-right corner to finalize the process.
#3. Sharing PDF Links in Instagram Stories
In addition to your bio, you can post PDFs on Instagram as a link using the story feature. You typically need a business or creator account for this.
You should also know that if you post a story, it will only last for 24 hours, after which it will disappear from people's feeds, and you will only be able to save it for yourself. Regardless of this limitation, posting a PDF file link to a story is simple:
1. Use the ‘copy link’ option on a website, or do this manually by pressing and holding it and tapping the Copy button on your device.
2. Tap the button in the bottom-left corner to go to the homepage.
3. Select Your story in the upper-left corner.
4. Take a picture using your camera or choose a photo or a ready-made Instagram template for your story.
5. Tap the Sticker button.
6. Select the Link button.
7. Paste the link into the designated field.
8. Decide whether you want to share the story with close friends or with everyone, and tap the arrow button on the right to finish.
Method 3: Convert PDF to Video for Feed and Reels
In addition to images, Instagram allows you to post videos, or reels. As you post a video, it will automatically appear in the reel section, but also in your followers’ feeds. Therefore, one of the options you can choose is to convert a PDF to a video and share it this way.
Here’s how to create a fitting Instagram PDF video:
#1. Creating Videos from PDF Pages
To share a PDF as a video, you need to transform your static document into this format first. You can do this using PDF-to-video converters or video editing tools. Usually, the difference between the two is that the former converts your file without additional options, while the latter allows you to edit the video.
If you choose the first method, you can edit your PDF before conversion and add text or images, as well as new fillable fields. If needed, you can also combine multiple PDFs into one, split and flatten your documents, or highlight text to make it more engaging.
On the other hand, you can use video editors such as Visme, Canva, and Animaker to create slides that will feature in your video. With such software, you can add video transitions and other visual effects that can make the video more appealing and engaging.
Once you have the video on your device, you should open your Instagram profile and tap the + icon at the bottom of the screen to create a new post. Then, you should choose the video from your storage and click Next. Finally, you can click the Share button on the right to publish it.
Method 4: Sending PDFs Directly via Instagram DM
Sending documents via direct messages does not count as posting a PDF on Instagram. However, it is helpful to know how you can share PDFs without them going public so that recipients can use them for various purposes.
Let’s see when and how to share PDFs via messages on Instagram:
When to Use Direct Messages for PDF Sharing
Mostly, users choose direct messages when they want to share PDFs without posting them on their profiles.
Although various other platforms can even share PDFs in their original form, many individuals use Instagram daily and find sharing documents through the inbox more convenient. So, if you are a big Instagram fan and know your way around the platform, it may be easier for you to convert PDFs to images and send them directly as messages.
Otherwise, you would need to learn about link creation and use other platforms that you may not be familiar with.
Step-by-Step Guide to Sending PDFs in Instagram Messages
Sending PDFs as Instagram messages is easy, as it includes the same steps as when messaging standard images:
1. Use a PDF-to-image converter to get shareable Instagram files, open your app, and select the inbox button in the upper-right corner.
2. Enter the conversation with the person you want to share the file with and tap the image button.
3. Select the images from your storage.
4. Tap Send to share the images, after which they will automatically appear in the chat, and the receiver will be able to see them.
More PDF.net Features for Social Media Content Creators
Besides conversion, which allows you to post PDFs on Instagram, PDF.net offers various tools for perfecting social media content.
Here are the most popular ones you can find on our PDF.net homepage:
- Chat with PDF. You can use this feature to analyze or summarize PDFs. Our AI tool is ready to answer all document-related questions and provide different types of analyses in various formats.
- PDF annotator. Adding comments or sticky notes to your files is another interesting and helpful feature to make social media content more interactive. You can also highlight text in PDFs and use the draw tool for further engagement.
- Watermark tool. If you want to protect your intellectual rights, you can watermark your original content. Our software provides a non-removable watermark that you can add to every page of your document.
Final Thoughts
You can post PDFs on Instagram easily with the right converter, such as PDF.net, to transform them into images, which are shareable on this platform (both as posts and as messages). You can also use cloud services or document-sharing websites to upload your file and create or copy shareable links to it.
Additionally, you can generate a trackable link or a video from a PDF file to share it on Instagram easily. Besides the tools you use to produce your content, you can tweak your PDFs before posting (watermark, annotate, analyze your documents, etc.).
Frequently Asked Questions
#1. Can I track who views my PDF after sharing it on Instagram?
Yes, you can track who views your PDF after sharing it on Instagram in two ways. You can use a trackable link or the built-in Instagram feature, both of which provide information about your file viewers.
#2. What's the best method for sharing multi-page documents?
The best method for sharing multi-page documents is to convert them into images and create an Instagram carousel. This will allow for a clear view, making your post attractive to your followers.
#3. Are there any copyright concerns when sharing PDFs on Instagram?
Yes, there are copyright concerns when sharing PDFs on Instagram. Specifically, sharing protected or licensed work on Instagram is prohibited and is subject to intellectual property laws.
#4. How can I maintain my PDF's formatting when converting to images?
You can maintain your PDF’s formatting when converting to images by using a reliable converter. For instance, the high-end PDF.net converter can transform your documents into images and keep the formatting intact.