My Guidelines For Instagram

Most people are still unsure of what makes good Instagram content. By the way, if you're still debating on whether or not you should invest your time, money, and energy on Instagram marketing - there are 500 million active monthly users, Instagram sits on Facebook which houses the largest and most accurate data set of all time, and we now live in a culture where the mobile phone is at scale and Instagram was built and engineered for the mobile device.

So what makes good Instagram content? Here are my guidelines that I stick to every time I deploy my content.

P.s. As I learn more and more and as Instagram evolves, this list will be tweaked and refined

1. The Square

The most basic of the basic. But I still see many profiles who can't get this right. Instagram content should be in a square format. Specifically 1080px by 1080px. I suggest if you're not good at Photoshop or illustrator, to make your content on Cavna which is an easy to use platform for creative visually appealing content from photos overlay-ed with text to info-graphics.

2. Hashtag Culture

Most social media platforms are counterproductive when you use hashtags ei. Facebook. But on Instagram, go HAM. Well, around 9 - 11 relevant hashtags. A small tip on hashtags, don't just put anything on there even if its super related. Don't be specific but choose the ones that have enormous following already to bring awareness to your content.

3. Color Scheme

Instagram is built for content that is visually appealing. User's psychology is in tuned to find content with the right aesthetics so be aware on how your content looks and feels. Use a color scheme and not just any colors our of the ordinary. You can google popular modern color schemes and use their colors.

(pic source from IG @dinosaurstew)

4. Contextual To Your Audience

Who are you speaking to? Artists, photographers, business people, students, athletes? Make your content consumable by who you're trying to reach. There's no one size fits all style.

(pic source from IG @appleandcoffee)

5. Your DNA

Now this last part will contradict number 4 but its the anchor and the driving piece. There's a balance pulling at opposite ends. Keep your content true to your DNA while at the same time, equally catering to who you're reaching. This is a nuance point and very important. If done right, your content will express yourself authentically, not commercially.

Your DNA is layered from the font style, color scheme, pic brightness etc. Find that sweet spot.