Behind the Curtain

GOOD TO KNOW LINKS

• Learn the basics of the app. Check out the Instagram tips on the official site HERE.
• Post multiple times daily to really grow your numbers quickly and post at different times throughout the day, not 4 photos at once. That’s called Instaspam.
• Use hashtags to help you to find others who have similar interests, etc. 
• Show behind the scenes stuff. People love seeing the process. 
• Respond to comments. If someone asks you a question or says something meaningful, reply to them. If you don’t interact with your followers, you most likely will have a hard time growing your numbers.
• Don’t be a filter fanatic. Try not to use too many different filters — find a few that work for you so your photos have a consistent look and feel. I like using the VSCO app filters.
• Cheat a little. You can try using more robust apps to take photos and then upload them to IG so they’re sharper and more pro looking. You can even use your camera and upload to IG.
• Tag people. But only if they are in the photo. Otherwise, don’t do it – it can really annoy others and be considered spam.
• Add a location. Under Name This Location and Add to Photo Map you can add a location based on where you are taking the photo. I don’t suggest this if you are taking a photo at home or somewhere else that may be private, like the home of your friend or parents. Adding a location is great for public places like restaurants, cafes, shops, etc.
• Add a URL in your bio. You can update your latest blog post on your Instagram bio page for a clickable link. You can use a call to action in the caption asking reader's to visit your blog to read the new post.
• Share your IG photos. There is a share feature when you post your photo to IG for Facebook, Tumblr, Twitter and Flickr. This is a great way to share your photos on many sites at once. However, I do not recommend sharing the same photos on all of your social media sites. You don't want to be redundant.
• Beef up your IG profile: In your IG profile, which appears above all of your photos when you open the app on your phone, make sure you add your business or blog URL and state clearly what you do or at least say something funny to create intrigue so people click your link. My profile says flight attendant on a mission to make every day a little more chic and has my email address.
• Add your email to your IG profile: This makes it super easy for people to connect with you, especially brands who may be interesting in teaming up.
• Follow people because you love what they post, not because you’re trying to collect friends. Really, follow people who inspire you and help to expand your view, give you new ideas and make you feel more creative and alive. 
• Participate in photo challenges. This is a great way to improve your photography skills. Follow @Instagram or read the Instagram blog to find out the weekly and monthly hashtag photo project. Every week, a new project is announced. The winners appear on the Instagram official feed.
• Participate in local Instagram groups. Find out if your city has an Instagram account at http://instagramers.com/links/cities/. It's a great way to see pictures from your community and participate in local photography walk. I also check out the different feeds for places I may want to visit during my travels or in my local community. Check out this site for great tutorials and app recommendations. 
• #FRIDAYINTRODUCTIONS is a fun hashtag to get to know people you follow. 
• Here are some of my favorite hashtag photo challenges #darlingweekend #travelwithfathom #ABMLIFEISCOLORFUL 
• BE generous with LIKES. Let's encourage each other!
• Follow Brands and Influencers you love. Many brands post special announcements for sale codes or share really good behind the scenes photos. I love following @jengotch and @toryburch.
• Find out who other people follow. Go to the profile page of someone on Instagram and click on following. This is a great way to find new people and brands to follow for more inspiration.