Instagram and photography.

Today, being subscribed to one of the most influential social media platforms is crucial in a photographer’s journey. Instagram in particular, does it work or not? Does Instagram really work for us photographers?

By dedicating myself to artistic photography, which is niche, lately I’ve been wondering if Instagram does it really work for us photographers? I want to emphasize that despite this reflection of mine, I will continue to be present.

Many social media experts say that Instagram works if you have a well-defined strategy to achieve success on social media.

And here I agree: it’s not just about posting, but knowing “when” to post, having an engaging post description, and of course, quality content.

“A user decides to visit a profile if they can benefit from it,” “A user turns to you if you can solve their problems.” How many times have you heard these speeches?

In light of this consideration, I began to share content that offered practical knowledge, such as tips on editing techniques or insights into specific tools like Photoshop.

At a certain point, however, I stopped and asked myself: “Okay, does Instagram work if I post this content, but is it really necessary to give away years of study and experience just to get likes and comments?”

The answer, as far as I’m concerned, is: ABSOLUTELY NO.

But let’s go in order.

Why Instagram.

Here are 5 points why, in my opinion, you as a photographer should have an Instagram profile:

1. Promotion of work: Instagram is a broad and accessible platform for sharing your photographs. This can help photographers gain visibility for their work and reach potential clients or collaborators.
2. Networking: Instagram facilitates connection with other photographers, artists, and industry professionals. By searching relevant hashtags and participating in online communities, photographers can expand their network and exchange ideas, feedback, and collaboration opportunities.
3. Inspiration and learning: Following other talented photographers on Instagram can be a source of inspiration and a way to stay updated on the latest trends and techniques in the world of photography.
4. Feedback and audience engagement: Instagram provides the opportunity to receive immediate feedback on your work through likes, comments, and shares. This can be useful for assessing the audience’s reaction to your photographs and for continuously improving your skills and style. Additionally, actively engaging the audience through questions, polls, and stories can help create a closer bond with your audience.
5. Digital portfolio: Instagram can serve as an accessible digital portfolio at any time and from any location. This is particularly useful for photographers who want to showcase their work to potential clients, employers, or art galleries without the need for a physical presentation.

Excluding profiles of renowned photographers or those that have been active for many years (like myself, for instance, with only two years of activity), what works and what doesn’t work on Instagram?

In my opinion, Instagram works well for images with vibrant colors, with strong saturation: striking colors attract attention.

I tried a test by publishing an image with extremely bright colors: it was a success, but it was not pleasant to look at. However, with this type of image, Instagram works.

I deleted it after 15 days.

After 30 days, I published the same image with softer colors: hardly any coverage at all. Here, Instagram doesn’t work.

After 60 days, I repeated the test with two other images, and guess what?

Same previous result: the one with strong colors, but qualitatively unwatchable, was a success.

Genres.

On Instagram, some photographic genres tend to achieve greater success than others, mainly because they fit well with the platform’s nature and the interests of users.

Here are some photographic genres that, in my opinion, work well on Instagram:

Travel and landscapes: People love exploring new places and seeing breathtaking images of scenic locations. Photos of spectacular landscapes, beaches, mountains, historic cities, and iconic landmarks are always popular on Instagram.

Food and cuisine: Food photos have a strong visual impact. Instagram is full of accounts dedicated to gastronomy, sharing images of recipes, restaurants, and street food from around the world.

Fashion and lifestyle: Images showcasing fashion, clothing, accessories, and lifestyles are very popular on Instagram. Users love to see stylish outfits and lifestyle shots that inspire and entertain.

Nature and animals: Photos of animals, wildlife, flowers, and natural scenes are always appreciated on Instagram. These images can evoke a variety of emotions, from joy to wonder, and connect with a wide audience.

Nude: Provocative poses and scanty clothing (often without) always have a significant following. Let’s be clear, there are images that deserve attention, but many are really on the edge of obscenity. Yet, they still garner great success.

Artistic images.

Then there are artistic photos, let’s say niche. As far as I’m concerned, with these images, Instagram doesn’t work.

Perhaps they don’t deserve it?

Why?

The fact that certain artistic images don’t perform well on Instagram, in my opinion, can be attributed to several factors:

Audience comprehension: Instagram has a vast and diverse user base. Artistic images often require a certain sensitivity or understanding to be fully appreciated and may not resonate with all Instagram users.

Context and trends: Instagram is influenced by rapidly changing trends and styles over time. Artistic images may not align with current trends or with what attracts the most attention on the platform at any given moment.

Instagram’s algorithm: Instagram’s algorithm plays a significant role in determining which content is shown to users. If artistic images don’t generate enough engagement or interaction within a certain period of time, they may not be shown to a wider audience by the platform.

In conclusion

The experience of sharing artistic images on Instagram can be complex and often doesn’t guarantee the desired success despite the intrinsic beauty of the work.

The platform is characterized by a wide range of users with diverse tastes and interests, and what may be considered beautiful or meaningful by some may not be appreciated by the majority.

While some photographic genres, such as travel, food, and fashion, tend to attract more attention and interest from users on Instagram, artistic images may require a deeper understanding and particular sensitivity to be fully appreciated.

Additionally, factors such as platform trends and Instagram’s algorithm play a significant role in determining the success of an artistic image.

Therefore, for artists and photographers who wish to share their artistic work on Instagram, it’s important to be aware of these factors and adopt strategies that can increase the visibility and engagement of their work.

This may include using relevant hashtags, actively participating in the community, promoting through other platforms, and seeking collaboration and exposure opportunities.

Despite the challenges, Instagram remains a valuable platform for expressing creativity and sharing work with a wide online audience.

And here I ask you…

What is your opinion on using Instagram as a platform for sharing artistic images?

Do you believe that the beauty of an image alone is sufficient to guarantee its success on this platform, or are there other factors that significantly influence audience engagement and appreciation?

Hugs,

Leonardo