Everyone's heard of Snapchat stories, but maybe you haven't yet tapped into the resource that is Instagram stories. Insta stories are perfect for sharing that picturesque scene in front of you, letting people know where you are, and (let's be honest) getting more views than you would on Snapchat. Whether you're just dipping your toes in the world of Instagram stories or have an established aesthetic you want to step up, here are 7 ways to up your Insta story game.

1. Make everything a Boomerang.

Boomerangs are unique to Instagram stories, and they're a super cute and different way to show what you're doing. The way they play over and over again is hypnotizing. Plus, they're super easy to do!

2. Add your location.

Adding a location on your photo, video, or Boomerang lets your followers know where you are, like that new trendy restaurant they've been dying to try or a foreign country. Plus, your story may get added to the location's Instagram story, getting you even more views!

3. Throw on a filter.

Filters aren't just for Instagram posts! Swipe through the filters to see which you like best. If in doubt, choose that rainbow-looking one that's unique to Instagram and makes everything look a little more beautiful.

4. Create a story with layers.

Let your story build. To do this, make a base story, and save that as a photo. Then, use the photo as the jumping off point for the next part of your story, and add on to that. Then save that photo, add again, and so on. In doing so, your viewers will be able to focus on each part of the story separately before seeing the whole product at the end!

5. Tag your friends.

If your friends don't want to be in the story itself, let everyone know they're there by tagging them. To do so, enter text and begin with @ to find their handle.

6. Get creative with stickers.

Admittedly, my go-to stickers are the basics: day of the week, the temperature, and the time. But there are many other cute stickers you can add!

7. Write and draw.

The typing feature is helpful, but the pen feature can take that photo to the next level. Use it to create a curly cursive, draw a heart around your friend's face, or even combine text with penmanship for a really artsy effect.