Instagram Do's and Don't's
Instagram Do's and Don't's

by Milvian Prieto

Instagram is the center for finding visually appealing photos and connecting with friends and users that share similar interests as you.

Instagram’s free and easy-to-use social platform allows you to instantly share captured memories with a few editing tools and an option to add a caption.

The beauty of Instagram is the ability to find users and topics that inspire you with a simple search. You can get a taste of what your favorite actor is up to or follow accounts that love your favorite football team as much as you do. The ability to appeal to your followers and equally inspire them is grand too.

So how do you get people to follow you and double-tap your posts?

Be creative and entice them with photos and videos that will inspire them.  When used properly, Instagram can be a lot of fun. And if you’re not having fun, maybe you’re doing something wrong. So here are a few tips to enhance your Instagram experience. (Feel free to share these with your kids too, since Instagram is the most popular amongst teens.)

Instagram Do’s

Take time to edit your photos

Although some photos can be posted as is, take advantage of the filters and edit options that Instagram offers.

Whether it’s a dark cloud in the background or cropping an unwanted item in the photo, Instagram allows you to do just that in the app to make for a picture-perfect post.

Use relevant hashtags with purpose and intention

Nothing is more annoying than a captioned post crammed with a ton of hashtags.

While it’s absolutely encouraged to use hashtags, only use them if they are relevant to what you’re posting. Hashtags are beneficial to use while posting so others who share the same interests as you can find your photos. If you plan on using hashtags, use them with purpose!

Have fun

Instagram isn’t a win-or-lose game.

It’s a community built for people who want to share tidbits of their lives with the world. So have fun, be creative with your posts, and interact with other folks who are posting photos that catch your eye.

Instagram Don’ts

Spam your followers

Nothing is more annoying than scrolling down your Instagram feed and seeing the same user posted 15 photos in a row.

People tend to post many images at a time, usually at the same place or striking a different pose. Don’t do it! It comes off as obnoxious and may actually cause people to unfollow you. Think of your Instagram page as an art gallery, curated with only the best photos you’d want the public to see. Remember, quality over quantity.

Post inappropriate content

Just like any other social platform, it’s important to be aware of what you post.

Stay away from posting content that may tarnish your profile. Things that should never be shared on Instagram, especially if your page isn’t set to private, are personal and financial information.

Post poor quality photos

At the end of the day, Instagram is a photo sharing app.

No one wants to see a pixelated or an over-edited photo on their feed. Whether or not you’re a professional photographer, keep in mind that you should be satisfied with the content you post if you want others to be as well.

Instagram can be a lot of fun and an awesome community if used the correct way. Keep these tips in mind the next time you decide to post an image or video to enhance your experience within the Instagram community. 

 

Milvian Prieto, a New Jersey-based writer, is on a quest to find the best apps that benefit 20-somethings and young families. She loves learning about technology and the way it impacts our lives.

Article: Copyright © iHaveNet

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