Instagram is expanding its shutter modes by quietly testing a new Portrait feature designed specifically for the Stories camera.

Move over Boomerang and Superzoom

Hidden amongst Instagram’s Android Application Package, developers have unearthed a new shutter feature incorporating lighting and bokeh effects.

When opening the Stories camera, an icon will overlay the shutter button and appear along side the traditional camera effects and the user need only swipe to the new option.

Derived from the Japanese word boke, meaning “blur” or “haze”, the new Portrait mode prompts users to “find a face”  and once activated, the subject’s background takes on a soft blurring effect.

Amateur to auteur

Instagram is reportedly “testing a camera format that lets you easily capture artistic quality photos and video, as another way to improve experience on Instagram and make it easier to share everyday moments.”

In the wake of users engaging with more recorded content through in-app Stories via Snapchat, Instagram’s new addition comes as little surprise.

Advanced editing and special effects are in more demand than ever as users look for new ways to blur the lines of a ballooning selfie culture.

What are your thoughts on the portrait capabilities? Give us your thoughts in the comment section below.