I’m not even close to having the perfect Instagram feed, but I do consider myself an expert on the subject. I’ve researched so much and it has become almost like a third job to keep up with trends, what to post and creating content just for it. I love browsing through Instagram to check out what people are up to, other bloggers and even their pictures and captions – which is what the app is all about.
But lately, I’ve been reading up more and more on the subject and, it turns out, there’s quite a science about it, which is interesting to know. People aren’t just snapping pictures and posting them anymore, they are actually picking up a camera, using apps to change the brightness, saturation, warmth. They are thinking about cleaver and captivating captures and then, they post it on Instagram.
It has become more and more a matter of posting relevant and trending content that people actually want to see and, for me, it’s becoming a complementing tool to the blog where I’m starting to share unique content you’ll only find there. To do that, I’ve come up with a few rules/guidelines that help me stay on track and create a pleasant and appealing feed.
Use natural light.
Anytime you can, shoot in natural, day light. The pictures are always going to look better, less grainy and with more contrast in the details. Even if you just use your phone, natural light is always the best option.
Have an edit system.
Try to stick to the same editing system, whether you use Photoshop, VSCO, Facetune or any other app out there, make sure to follow a few set settings that will make your pictures look similar.
Create a visual story.
Always look at your complete feed, instead of picture to picture. It’s important to know how things look like generally so you know you are keeping in tone with the story you are telling with your feed. When I look at someone’s profile I can tell in less than 10 seconds if I will follow them or not, based on their feed.
Vary your content.
This is as important as any of the prior points. No one wants to look at a full feed of selfies, so think about things you can gram about and find your areas of expertise. If you like to snap the food you eat, moments with friends or family, landscapes, make sure you mix it up and let people know all your interests.
In the end, we’re supposed to have fun with this and not think too much about what we post but it has come to my attention how important it is, nowadays, especially if you’re trying to build a brand, to try and experiment. I don’t love my feed, and some pictures I wish I hadn’t post but then again, I’m just learning and there’s no learning without experimenting.