The CEO of Instagram said it this week - though Instagram still supports photos, statistically, their audience is responding to videos MORE. As photographers who educate their audience about the importance of photos (and especially printed photos if you're like me), this can feel really frustrating. BUT, this doesn't mean you can't get traction from posting your photos. It just means you'll need to do it in a different way.
Here are some tips that have been working for me:
1. Start posting photos in video format. You can use apps like Instories to create a beautiful slideshow of your photos that let you work around the "system" and put those gorgeous photos in front of your audience's eyes! 2. Use carousels. If you do post photos outside of video format, avoid posting a singular photo. Post at least 3 in a carousel. These receive MUCH more traction than a singular photo. 3. Use collage apps like SCRL (I use the free version) to catch the viewer's eye and keep them on your post longer. Horizontal photos work FABULOUSLY with this app! 4, Make video the majority of your content. As much as I know this will disappoint many of you, this is what will get you the MOST traction on Insta. No, you don't have to put your face in front of the camera. No, you don't have to be a comedian. Start getting creative and come up with ways you can show your value and your work that feels comfortable for you. 5. Focus on quality, not quantity. You don't have to post on Instagram every day to see results! We're going through what's being called a "social media recession." People are following fewer accounts. The ones they do follow consistently put out QUALITY content that's worth following, so keep that in mind!!!
It's important to remember that social media is always in a state of flux and instead of stomping our feet about the constant changes we don't like, we must be ready to pivot so we can take advantage of the FREE marketing opportunity social media platforms like Instagram provide! Mindset matters!
Want more Instagram help? Download my 30 free Instagram caption prompts for photographers here:
