An Instagram post without a caption is like a book without a cover. Instagram is a continuous narrative and your captions are the salacious details that connect you with your readers. It can be tricky to gain engagement on Instagram. But one of the best ways to grow your engagement (and followers!) is to write a well thought out, intriguing, or funny caption. Thinking of Instagram captions can be time consuming and draining, so I'm saving you the hassle. I've compiled a list of some of the best Instagram captions and ideas to help you whenever you're stuck!
The Best Instagram Captions and Ideas
We put so much pressure on ourselves, especially when it comes to Instagram, that our mind might draw a blank when it comes to formulating captions. While quotes and song lyrics can be great, they don't always stop people in their tracks. What we want is people to double-tap on our photos and invite our followers to join in our journey.
Of course, our images are the first thing someone will see while scrolling their Instagram feed. But the caption helps them to take action: like, comment, follow, or take you up on your request. Photos don't always say a 1,000 words. Remember, your followers don't have you memorized. They don't remember that you live in Europe with your two dogs and husband. You need to remind them of who you are and what you're about. That helps establish a connection, which is all that truly counts on Instagram.
Not only am I going to break down how to create a great Insta caption, I'm also going to share 50 Instagram captions to help you whenever you're stuck. Whether you need a pun for your selfie, a funny Instagram caption, or a way to resonate with your followers, these should help.
Why do captions matter?
Creating a great Instagram caption is how you get people to interact and follow you. More interaction on your posts (Likes, comments, following calls to action) equals you crushing the Instagram Algorithm. When you start gaining more engagement, Instagram ends up showing off your post to more and more people. But aside from just more engagement, having a caption moves people. It builds your relationships and it gets people to stick around. Which is what we really want on Instagram!
Captions also help you make a statement and show off your personality – something a picture can't always do. It helps you stand out from the crowd and makes you more memorable. So when we create captions on Instagram we want to speak with our audience, not at them. You are not a sales pitch (even if you are selling something!).
How to write a great Instagram caption
To me, a great Instagram account is one of two things: relatable or admirable. It's important to know and have an understanding of this when you go to write a caption. Most of us flip-flop between the two. A great Instagram caption can make people laugh, entertain, sympathize and a myriad of other emotions. My suggestion is to vary it up. But regardless, you should ask yourself: What message do you want to get across? What ACTION do you want people to take away from seeing your caption? And, most importantly: why does this matter?
You need to know that every time you go to write a caption. I know it sounds a bit tedious, but I promise it will make a difference in your engagement.
Creating a connection with people on Instagram is hands down the best way to grow. One of the best ways (besides, in my opinion, Instagram Stories) to further a connection is your captions. That means, instead of posting a quote from someone else, focusing on your story. To me, Instagram itself is a continuous narrative. It's showcasing what you're doing and highlighting your life. People might jump in at different parts of the story, so it's up to you to keep them up-to-date and keep current followers entertained. It sounds like a lot, right? Fingers crossed, this guide will help.
I mentioned varying up your captions above, here's what I mean: if you share a short story, opt for a few sentences for your next post. If you recently shared about your work or a sales pitch, make your next post more personal. Tell us what you're feeling, thinking, or what's going on in this moment. This is how we can relate to you.
When inspiration hits, I write down my caption ideas in a separate notes section on my phone. Some are super lame. Others might be gold. I like to go and look at those whenever I need a bit of help. I suggest doing the same so you'll never be out of ideas.
Instagram Captions that Engage
What are you passionate about?
If you want to engage your followers and potential followers, share more from yourself. What makes you unique? What do you love? I'm going to give you an example of one of my favorite Instagrammers @theskinnyconfidential. She isn't shy to proclaim her love for all things health and beauty, even if it's controversial. And guess what? This works in her favor. Her followers know this about her and are always tagging her in related photos on Instagram. It's something they can connect with her on and in turn, it makes it easy for her to relate to them. It's a win-win! Share what you're passionate about and your followers will start making those connections with you.
Share your story
Let's face it, there are millions of other Instagram accounts out there. How can you truly make someone stop and follow you? Having that story or narrative can come across with your Instagram theme – the images you choose to share. But, it can also be found in your caption. For starters, if they know, like, and trust you, chances are they will continue following you and engaging. One of the best ways to do that is to share your story. When you think of Instagram as an ongoing narrative, then it will help you to remember to explain the characters featured, go deep into who you are, and share any plot developments. People will resonate with this and go look at your account for updates.
Put yourself in the reader's shoes
What kinds of captions move you on Instagram? What makes you laugh? What makes you want to comment? Or what makes you stop scrolling to read? Start thinking about what kind of captions you like to read. Now, before you share your own caption, put yourself in the reader's shoes. Why should they care about this? You have to answer that question before you hit share. It could be helpful, inspiring, funny, etc. But it should speak to the reader and give them a reason to care.
What makes a good Instagram caption will vary from one person to the next. Having a good understanding of your audience is the best way to resonate with them.
Call to action
Having a call to action is one the best ways to get scrollers to stop and engage. What do you want them to do? Don't shy away from the obvious. Ask for comments and likes. Saying things like, “double tap if you agree.” Is a great way to encourage more interaction. Since I am posting new content on my blog, I often ask people to read my new post by clicking the link in my bio or to swipe up in my Instagram Stories. Having a specific call to action helps people understand what you want. People often won't act until they're told. So don't be shy! Just make sure to vary up your calls to action, that way you aren't asking someone to buy something every single time.
Also helpful, can be finding the best time to post to Instagram to get the most engagement from your followers. This guide will show you how to find the most optimal time for your to share to Instagram.
50 Instagram Caption Ideas
I've compiled 50 Instagram captions that you can help you with your next Insta pic. These Instagram photo caption ideas will work whenever you need some extra inspiration.
Instagram Caption Puns – I'm always down for a good pun, but have it go with your personality and people will really respond.
- Lost in paradise (don't send help).
- Outfit as white as my dance moves.
- If by clubbing you mean eating club sandwiches… then yeah, I love clubbing.
- I feel as useless as the “G” in Lasagna.
- Training for my next marathon. #Netflix
- You can't live a full life on an empty stomach.
- Need an ark? I Noah guy.
Quotes for Instagram Captions – instead of using the same quote or song lyric, flip it and make it your own.
- Rain drop. Drop top. All I do is eat non stop.
- Get out of bed? That's a no from me.
- She believed she could, but she was really tired. So she didn't.
- Catch flights not feelings.
- As long as we don't die, this is going to be one hell of a story.
- You miss 100% of the dogs you don't pet.
Behind the scenes – people love knowing what really happens just out of the frame of the camera. Or, you can also share behind the scenes of your work or blog process.
- Not pictured, my husband making fun of me for taking this picture.
- Here's a sneak peek at my new line of t-shirts! You get to see it first, what do you think?!
- Three truths and a lie….
- The question I'm asked most often is…
Funny Instagram Captions – show off your personality and let people in on the joke.
- Marry someone that can cook. Looks fade. Hunger doesn't.
- I hate being indecisive. It's awesome.
- Would you rather… (fill in the blank)
- All jeans can be skinny jeans if you eat and drink enough.
- I hope that wherever my hair ties go they're happy, that's all that matters.
- 5’2 is my height but my attitude is 6’1.
- The worst time to have a heart attack is during a game of charades.
Holiday Inspired Instagram Captions –
- The most lit Instagram photo on 4th of July? You're looking at it.
- My holiday centerpiece: Christmas miracle or Pinterest fail? Only time will tell.
- One day of coal. 364 days of having fun? I'll take my chances.
- The only thing getting lit this evening are my pumpkin spice candles.
- It's the most wine-derful time of the year.
Inspiring Instagram captions – the best way to resonate with your readers.
- If you really knew me, you'd know this….
- Every morning I…
- The best way I stay motivated…
- I just hit…! (celebrate a milestone)
- I'm so happy to have you here! Here's something you should know about me.
- My most challenging moment was…
Call to action captions – when you're ready for people to engage on the next level
- What is your advice on ___?
- Like if you agree
- Am I the only one who…
- Have you ever been to…?
- Where are you from?
- Link in bio for a preview.
- Describe how you feel in emojis.
- Tag a friend that needs to see this.
- Which would you choose? (Here you can use Instagram's feature to share multiple photos)
- What's your go to life hack?
Pin this so you can come back for inspiration!
Social media should be social and Instagram captions help you do just that. Before you share, ask yourself: what would the reader get out of this? If you can't answer that, go back to the drawing board. It might take a bit more time, but I promise it will be worth it!
5 Day Instagram Challenge
5 days to take your Instagram to the next level. Gain followers and engagement that count!
