1
Paste the Instagram post URL here
2
Click Copy URL to access the page source
3
Paste the complete HTML source code here

How to Download Private Instagram Video and Photo

Complete guide to download videos and photos from private Instagram accounts that you have permission to view. This method works for content from accounts you follow.

What You'll Need

  • Web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari recommended)
  • Instagram account that follows the private account
  • Access to view the private content

Understanding Instagram Privacy

Instagram values user privacy and offers options to limit account visibility to followers only. The standard Instagram Downloader cannot access private content unless you're already following the account.

This Private Instagram Downloader solves that limitation by using a method similar to our Facebook Private Downloader. Note that this requires using a web browser rather than the Instagram mobile app.

Step 1: Access the Private Content

Open a web browser (preferably Google Chrome) and navigate to https://www.instagram.com/. Log in with your Instagram credentials that have access to the private account.

Find the private photo or video you want to download. Click the three dots (...) menu, then select Copy Link.

Screenshot showing how to copy link from Instagram private post menu

Step 2: Process the Instagram URL

Paste the copied link into the Step 1 form field above. Click ENTER, then click COPY URL. A new page will open automatically.

Remove the text "paste://PASTE-URL-here-and-click-Open" from the address bar, then right-click and select Paste, followed by OK or pressing Enter.

Screenshot showing Step 2 of Instagram private content download process

Step 3: Extract and Download

Copy the complete HTML source code displayed on the page. Return to the PasteDownload page and paste this source code into the Step 3 form field. Our system will automatically process the code to locate any downloadable photo or video files.

Screenshot showing how to copy Instagram page source code for private content download

Advanced Tips and Troubleshooting

Browser Compatibility

Recommended browsers: Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari

Note: Some browsers may have restrictions on copying page source. Chrome generally provides the most reliable experience.

Mobile Device Instructions

While possible on mobile, this process works best on desktop/laptop computers. If using mobile:

  • Use "Desktop Site" mode in your mobile browser
  • Ensure you can access Instagram's full web interface
  • Copy and paste operations may be more challenging on touch screens

Frequently Asked Questions

Is downloading private Instagram content legal?

This method only works for content you already have permission to view (i.e., from accounts you follow). Always respect copyright laws and the content creator's rights. Use downloaded content responsibly and in accordance with Instagram's terms of service.

What types of content can I download?

This tool can extract photos, videos, and carousel posts from private Instagram accounts. It works with standard posts, but may not work with Stories or Reels due to different loading mechanisms.

Why doesn't the regular Instagram downloader work for private accounts?

Private Instagram accounts require authentication to view content. Regular downloaders cannot access this protected content without login credentials, which is why this specialized method is necessary.

What if the download still doesn't work?

Ensure you're logged into Instagram and can view the content normally. Some posts may have additional restrictions. Clear your browser cache and try again, or use a different browser if issues persist.