With over 800 million users, Instagram is one of the most powerful tools in getting your photography noticed. Both new and established photographers are using the social media platform to promote their work. Understanding how to display your fashion photography using the photo-sharing app is essential to maximizing the benefits and reaping the rewards.
Upload High-Quality Shots
One of the most distinctive qualities between amateur and professional photographers is the equipment used. Investing in a good DSLR camera will allow you to produce quality images. They also allow for more control over focus, depth of field, and shutter speed. The ability to switch out lenses also makes for better shooting in low light and zooming in when needed.
Once your photos are uploaded, you can use an editing program to adjust for lighting and clarity. This allows you to skip over the basic Instagram filters, and instead customize your edits, keeping your models and mood in mind. With specific programs, you’re able to make changes to portions of your photos, highlights, shadows, and exposures.
Post Strategically
Now that you have a bunch of quality photos to choose from, make sure to post strategically. It’s important to post regularly with relevant fashion and style content. “What I like about Instagram is that it’s led me to have a daily practice, a discipline…it makes me flex that muscle every day and think about pictures and what I’m trying to say,” says photographer George Byrne to Vogue.
Studies show that the morning is a popular time for scrolling, so take advantage of when the audience will be viewing. Sunday is also a great day for interaction and engagement.
Catchy Captions
Captions can be used to create emotional engagements with viewers. Add a story to your photo, a quote from one of the models, or talk about the inspiration for the image. Having an engaging caption improves the likelihood of those clicking “more” to continue reading, thereby spending more time on your photo. Asking open-ended questions is another way to interact with viewers. Inviting them to comment and continue the discussion can give your work even more exposure.
Behind Your Shoots
Adding “behind the scenes” video to your account will not only guarantee more likes and comments, but will also add a different spin to the artistry. Videos provide viewers with insight on your process during a fashion photo shoot, and the ideas behind choosing the location, the wardrobe and models. However, Instagram only allows up to 1 minute of video per post. The Hyperlapse app can help you to get as much footage as you need for the full effect. CanvasPop.com reviewed this app, and the team was pretty impressed, stating, “It makes even the most mundane video footage look interesting.” Videos are just another way to make your fashion photography account stand out.
Become A Hashtag Pro
The key to hashtags is knowing which are popular and appropriate for your content. Social media management expert, Jenn Herman, says, “To find really targeted audiences on Instagram, search for hashtags related to your industry.” She goes on to say that users should not only use the hashtags, but follow them. Interacting with other posts that use the same hashtags will expose your account to others in the industry. Some popular hashtags for fashion photography include #fashionphotography #fashionphotoshoot #fashionphotographymodel #fashionpost and #fashiongram, and there are many more to choose from.
Having a well developed Instagram account is a must for any photographer. In one click, your photos can be exposed to millions of viewers, increasing your chance of becoming noticed by the right people in the fashion industry. Being consistent and understanding how to maintain a quality, active account is the biggest determiner for success.