How to use Instagram and the platform’s most important features for businesses and individuals
Photo by cottonbro studio
Instagram is one of the world’s most popular social media platforms that offers a unique space for sharing photos, videos, and stories. It has transformed the way individuals and businesses connect, create, and engage online. In this post, we’ll explore what makes Instagram a standout platform and why it’s a must-have in today’s digital age.
The Basics of Instagram
Instagram is a leading social media platform where users share photos, videos, and stories while connecting with others worldwide. It was launched in 2010 as a simple photo-sharing app and has since evolved into a powerful tool for personal expression, community building, and business growth. With over 2 billion active users globally, it’s no surprise that Instagram has become the number one social media platform.
How To Use Instagram
At its core, Instagram is a visual-first platform where users can share content through their profiles. Some examples include sharing a meal snapshot, a beautiful landscape, and a business promotion. Posts on Instagram are designed to be visually engaging, and this is something you’ll want to remember.
Users can upload photos, videos, and carousels (a collection of images or videos) about anything (as long as it follows the platform's code of conduct) and enhance their posts with captions, hashtags, and location tags. These last two Instagram features are used to connect with a specific niche and location.
Other key Instagram features are Stories, which are short-lived, 24-hour posts that disappear unless you save them to your profile, and Reels, which allow users to create short, creative videos similar to TikTok. These tools are designed to encourage creativity and keep the platform dynamic and interactive.
Why Instagram Stands Out
Instagram caters to a diverse audience, from teenagers documenting their daily lives to professionals showcasing their work. Creators, influencers, and brands use the platform as a marketing tool, building audiences and driving engagement through eye-catching content and strategic campaigns. Businesses, in particular, have found Instagram to be invaluable for promoting products, building brand awareness, and connecting directly with customers.
One of Instagram’s most notable features is its focus on visuals. Unlike other platforms that prioritize text-based content, Instagram’s design emphasizes high-quality imagery and video, creating a visually appealing user experience. This focus has positioned Instagram as the go-to platform for fashion, art, food, travel, and other industries where aesthetics play a key role.
Evolution of Instagram
Since its acquisition by Facebook (now Meta) in 2012, Instagram has grown beyond a simple photo-sharing app. It has introduced features like shopping integration, where businesses can tag products directly in posts, making it easy for users to shop without leaving the app. Additionally, tools like Insights and Ads Manager have made it an essential part of any business’s social media strategy.
Is Instagram Still Relevant Today?
Instagram has become more than a social platform, today, it’s a space for inspiration, storytelling, and commerce. You can use the app to connect with friends, share your portfolio, and improve your business’ reach.
The platform offers many tools and opportunities to help you achieve your goals. In a world increasingly driven by visual communication, Instagram continues to shape how we share and interact online.
Learn more about social media marketing by subscribing to my newsletter and follow me on Instagram @thesavvymediamanager!