A few days ago I got the most instagram likes I've ever received. I'm at 370+ right now for this photo. Which, for me, is a heck of a lot. A few people have asked how, and what I think works. I really can't pinpoint why. Seriously, I can't figure it out, but I'll take it for sure. First and foremost, I think people like pretty pictures. Whether it's your face, a building, your outfit, flowers, whatever.
Just like a blog post, there needs to be a point. I've never really had a blog “niche” just like I don't intend to have an instagram one. I like to post pictures of everything. Where I'm going, what I'm doing. That's more authentic for me, personally.
Instagram has taken over as the most influential social platform. I haven't quite cracked the code of why certain people and images get as many followers and likes as they do (although Whitney's class certainly helped!)
But here's why I follow people on instagram:
They like and comment on my photos. Just like with blogging, it's important to interact on instagram, too. I notice when people like my photos and I especially notice when they comment on my pictures. It tells me they have a vested interest in what I'm posting, and they took the time to read the caption. @thedailytay comments on almost all of mine, and I really appreciate it. She's also traveling in London and Dublin right now and her pictures are amazing.
They have pretty pictures. @whitv‘s instagram is a perfect example. Every single picture is gorgeous, crisp, and all around likeable.
Another example? @meetmeinparee – all her photos have a similar aesthetic, are fun, and showcase her personality.
Their captions are funny. Pictures do tell 1,000 words, but not all of the words. Funny captions hook me instantly. @iamsarahwebb always cracks me up. Also, her profile “about me” is on point.
Their images tell a story. @sophlog is awesome. All of her pictures are pretty, but I feel like I'm also getting a glimpse of what's going on in her life. In that, I want to hang out with her.
What really helps me is being consistent on instagram. Posting daily really helps me keep my mojo going, a lot like with writing. For example, I've participated in Whitney's “21 Day Photo Challenge”.
I've decided for the month of April I'm going to start my own instagram challenge that we can all participate in. There will be a prompt for every day in April (that list is coming soon!) along with a hashtag: #30PhotosInBetween
I hope you'll join me. No really, please. I'm secretly afraid I'm going to be the only one using this hashtag.
Why do you follow certain instagram accounts?
Want to see how I grew my Instagram following from under 5,000 to over 15,000 in a year? Get my free guide:
