How to Grow on Instagram as a Photographer in 2025

Summary

In this video, the creator shares the exact strategies that helped them grow their social media following as a photographer, with over 300,000 followers on Instagram, 200,000 on YouTube, and 800,000 on TikTok. They emphasize the importance of consistent posting, finding content that resonates with your audience, and using the right types of content like reels to gain exposure. They also discuss the importance of adding value through behind-the-scenes insights, editing breakdowns, and storytelling. Additionally, they provide tips on how to effectively use Instagram's algorithm, how to engage followers through stories, and why hashtags may no longer be effective.

Takeaways

• 😀 Posting frequency matters, but consistency and sustainability are key. Posting daily can work, but find a pace you can maintain long-term without burning out.
• 😀 Simply posting more content won't guarantee growth if the content is low quality. Focus on experimenting with different types of posts to find what works and double down on it.
• 😀 While static photos can still gain reach, Instagram Reels are the most effective for exposure to non-followers, driving faster growth and engagement.
• 😀 Providing value is crucial for growth. Share educational content, behind-the-scenes insights, and photo editing breakdowns to engage followers more deeply.
• 😀 Stories don't directly grow your audience, but they are essential for maintaining engagement and building deeper connections with your current followers.
• 😀 Don't rely heavily on hashtags anymore. Using random or irrelevant hashtags can hurt your engagement. Instead, use a few highly relevant ones if necessary.
• 😀 The algorithm favors content that keeps people on the platform longer. Carousel posts, with multiple slides, encourage users to stay longer and engage more.
• 😀 Growth on social media takes time and effort. Avoid expecting quick fixes and focus on building a consistent strategy that works for your audience.
• 😀 Don't overwhelm yourself by overposting. Experiment with frequency and types of content to determine what fits your style and doesn't burn you out.
• 😀 Offering value through storytelling, quick tips, or educational content is one of the best ways to keep your audience coming back for more.

Q & A

Why do some photographers grow on Instagram while others struggle to gain followers?

Success on Instagram as a photographer often depends on consistent posting, quality content, and understanding the platform's algorithm. While frequent posting can help, it’s important to focus on creating content that resonates with your audience. Posting with purpose and tracking engagement is key.

What is the best posting frequency for Instagram growth as a photographer?

Posting once a day on Instagram is a solid strategy for consistent growth. However, experimenting with posting two times a day can lead to faster growth, as long as the pace is manageable. It’s crucial to find a sustainable posting rhythm to avoid burnout.

How can posting more content hurt your Instagram reach?

While posting more can increase growth, if the content is not engaging or valuable, it can hurt your reach. Random or low-quality content can alienate followers and reduce engagement, which in turn lowers visibility in the algorithm.

How can photographers determine which content works best on Instagram?

Photographers should test different types of content and track engagement. By analyzing which posts get the most likes, shares, or comments, they can identify patterns and focus on the content that resonates with their audience.

What type of content is most effective on Instagram for photographers?

Reels are the most effective for gaining new followers due to their ability to reach a broader audience beyond current followers. Static posts, such as high-quality photos, can still work, but they often reach fewer new users compared to Reels.

How does Instagram’s algorithm work in favor of photographers?

Instagram’s algorithm prioritizes content that keeps users engaged longer. For photographers, this means creating posts that encourage interaction, such as carousel posts or Reels. The more time people spend engaging with your content, the more likely it is to be shown to others.

What role does providing value play in growing a photographer’s Instagram following?

Providing value is crucial for standing out. By sharing knowledge, behind-the-scenes content, or editing tips, photographers can engage their audience more effectively. Value-driven content fosters a deeper connection with followers and encourages them to share the content.

What is the significance of Instagram Stories for photographers?

Instagram Stories are essential for maintaining engagement with your existing followers. While they don’t directly attract new followers, they allow for more personal interactions, behind-the-scenes looks, polls, and Q&A sessions, helping build a stronger connection with your audience.

Do hashtags still play a role in Instagram growth for photographers?

Hashtags have become less important in terms of reach and engagement. Overusing random or irrelevant hashtags can even hurt engagement. Instead, it’s better to focus on creating engaging content that aligns with what Instagram’s algorithm values.

Can posting behind-the-scenes content help photographers grow on Instagram?

Yes, behind-the-scenes content is highly effective in engaging followers and providing value. It allows audiences to see the process behind the final image, making the content more relatable and engaging.