Quick answer: Save the Reel or video to your iPhone, open it in AliveShot, trim 1–3 seconds, pick a cover frame and save it as a Live Photo.
Step 1: Get the video onto your iPhone
- Your own Reels and posts. Instagram keeps a copy of what you post. Open your Reel, tap the ⋯ menu and look for the download or save option.
- Public Reels with downloads on. Tap the Share (paper plane) icon on the Reel; if the creator allows it, you’ll see a Download option.
- Screen recording. For personal use only. Start a screen recording from Control Center, play the Reel, then stop. Trim the recording later.
Saving and reusing other people’s content should respect their rights. A personal lock screen is fine for most people; reposting isn’t.
Step 2: Convert it to a Live Photo
- Open AliveShot. Pick the saved clip from your library.
- Trim 1–3 seconds. Choose the moment and a sharp cover frame.
- Save as a Live Photo. Save it to Photos, then set it as your lock screen wallpaper.
Want to try first? The free video to Live Photo tool trims the clip in your browser, then you finish in the app.
Tips for Reels
- Reels are already vertical, so they fill the lock screen with almost no cropping.
- Skip the text overlays. Choose a moment without captions so your clock and widgets stay readable.
- Keep it short. 1–3 seconds plays most reliably on the lock screen.
Saving from TikTok instead? See TikTok to Live Photo.
Frequently asked questions
Can I turn an Instagram Reel into a Live Photo?
Yes. Once the Reel is saved on your iPhone as a video, it converts like any other clip: trim 1–3 seconds, pick a cover frame and save it as a Live Photo.
Does Instagram have a Live Photo option like TikTok?
No. Instagram doesn’t offer a “save as Live Photo” button, so you need to save the video first and convert it.
Why can’t I download someone else’s Reel?
Instagram only offers downloads on some public Reels, and creators can turn the option off. If you can’t download it, ask the creator, or use a video you made yourself.
Does screen recording work?
It can for your own personal use. Crop out the Instagram buttons when you trim, and pause any captions first. Quality is lower than the original file.
Last updated October 31, 2026