How to Create Instagram DM Mockups in Mock DM (Pro Guide)

Instagram DMs live in the Pro tier. Use this updated walkthrough to build believable text-based conversations (no media attachments) and export them for posts or stories without a watermark.

Quick setup (Pro required for Instagram)

1. Select Instagram: Choose Instagram from the platform list (Pro). Pick dark or light mode; dark usually looks better on mobile.
2. Set the status bar: Adjust time, battery, Wi‑Fi, and cellular to match your story (e.g., 09:41 for mid-morning). Instagram uses 24-hour timestamps here.
3. Add participants: Name both sides, upload avatars that match the context, and mark who is “Me.”
4. Write the conversation: Keep messages short, alternate senders, and space timestamps realistically. Emojis are supported; this builder is text-only for messages.
5. Optional: AI draft: Generate a full conversation from a prompt, then edit any line manually.
6. Preview and export: Play the conversation to check pacing. Export an image or video—Pro exports have no watermark.

Realism tips for Instagram DM mockups

• Pace the chat: 1–5 minute gaps feel natural; add a longer pause before an important reply.
• Keep it casual: Mix short sentences and emojis. Avoid perfectly polished marketing copy.
• Align the time: Set the first timestamp to a believable moment for the scenario you’re showing.
• Match avatars to context: Use faces or logos that fit the conversation topic.
• Pick the right format: PNG for feed posts or decks; video export for stories/reels.

Common pitfalls to avoid

• All messages landing in the same minute
• Overly long paragraphs in every bubble
• Forgetting to adjust the status bar (time, battery) to match the scene
• Using image export for stories when video performs better

Ready to try it? Create an Instagram DM mockup in Mock DM.