- Rachel Bistricer
- Aug 11
- 10 min read
Updated: Sep 16
Instagram has transformed the way photographers share their work, putting visuals front and center on a platform with over a billion active users. It's simple to use, doesn’t require technical expertise, and lets your images do all the talking. For photographers, it’s not just a place to post photos—it’s a powerful marketing strategy to grow your brand, connect with your audience, and catch the attention of curators, agencies, and clients who are always looking for fresh talent.
But let’s be real: the competition is fierce. Thousands of photographers are vying for attention, and standing out means more than just posting good photos. It’s about building a consistent presence, creating connections, and crafting a profile that speaks to your style and vision. To help you take your Instagram photography game to the next level, we’ve rounded up 11 essential tips to help you grow your audience, find inspiration, and showcase your work in the best possible light.
Learn how to design social media graphics that captivate your audience and elevate your online presence.
Create posts that stop thumbs in their tracks with our easy-to-edit social media templates. Tailor the layouts to fit your look and feel, then post with confidence. It’s the smart way to stay fresh across all your channels.
11 Instagram tips every photographer should know
01. Don’t pose, compose
In the early days, Instagram users didn’t have much choice. They could only upload square images. We know that for a professional photographer, this was extremely frustrating, as composition is such an integral part of your presentation - as important as the chosen subject or camera. Fortunately, things have recently changed, and you can now upload both portrait and landscape images. Using an image resizer for Instagram can also help ensure your photos fit perfectly within the platform’s dimensions. Although you still cannot control how Instagram will cut the thumbnail version, you’ll get at least pictures that resemble what you wanted to create.
Here are the optimal Instagram image sizes for each format:
Portrait images: 1080px by 1350px - 4:5 aspect ratio
Square images: 1080px by 1080px - 1:1 aspect ratio
Landscape images: 1080px by 566px - 2:3 aspect ratio
Learn how to make your posts stand out by using the correct social media image sizes for a polished and professional look.
02. Any time of day is a good time
Unlike emails, Facebook posts, or even Tweets, there is no “best time” to publish on Instagram. Studies show that images work the same all week, with a slight bonus on Monday and Thursdays. However, this can vary depending on your location, the type of content you post, and your audience’s routine. So how can you make sure you’re posting at your optimal time? Post, experiment, learn, repeat.
Like many other things in life, the only way to figure out what works for you is by trying out many options. Before you decide on a specific day or time to post on your Instagram photography account, play around with different publication schedules. Don’t forget that the most important thing is to be constant. There’s no point in searching for the best time to post on Instagram if you only do so once in a blue moon.
03. Let your style set you apart
Aside from constantly posting, you want to keep a consistent style or content pattern. Internet users are like Pavlov’s dog: they are quickly conditioned to develop expectations. This is why you want to keep your posting to a pattern. Now we’re not advocating that you restrict yourself to one genre, but make sure your followers immediately recognize your signature style when scrolling through their feed.
Developing a personal style is a crucial part of Instagram for photographers. Most of the time, you’ll only get a fraction of a second to make an impact, and you want to make it count. A user sees one of your images on their screen and finds it appealing enough to pause, like it, and ultimately visit your profile. This achievement is comparable to the feeling of seeing a double rainbow on Yosemitebear Mountain. Having a consistent feed, aided by Instagram post templates, will ensure that most of those who enjoyed one of your photos are interested in the rest of your work.
04. Become a master in the art of hashtags
With thousands of images published every minute, there is little chance that a random user stumbles upon your photos, unless they are one of your followers. That is why we use hashtags: to allow new curious eyes to see our images without paying for a promoted post. A hashtag is text following a # symbol connected to a certain topic. Social media users can search a hashtag to discover content that would be most interesting to them, allowing them to discover new exciting artists.
You can use the power of hashtags every time you attach one (or more) of them to each of your picture’s descriptions. Thus, you’ll multiply your chances of being discovered and attract more followers, likes and comments.
Three questions will automatically arise:
How many can I use? On Instagram, there are 30 hashtags per publication. However, there is no reason to skimp on this. The most serious, scientifically-driven studies show that on Instagram, unlike Twitter, the more hashtags you put, the better your posts perform. Since you don’t want to overload your pictures, you can safely go for something between 3-10 hashtags per post.
Where will I put them? For your follower’s sake, please don’t write your entire description with one hashtag per word. Simply put your hashtags at the end of your posts for a clean look. You can also hide your tags, by including them in the comment section below the post or by burying them beneath 5 lines made of one dot line breaks (that’s because Instagram caps off captions after 3 lines, so your hashtags won’t be visible).
Which should I use? Don’t try using obvious, common words like photographer, love or landscape. They are overused, which means your pictures will be instantly buried under thousands of new posts within a second. Plus, you’ll receive a lot of spam comments from bots, which can be extremely annoying. Instead, go for photography hashtags that are popular and relevant enough to give you potential, but not too crowded, so you have a chance to stand out. How to establish your hashtag repertoire? First, check out which hashtags other photographers in your field use. Second, consider related hashtags by browsing through posts containing a hashtag you’ve already successfully used. Eventually, don’t forget to use Instagram’s search function to discover valuable new ideas and the number of posts related.
05. (H)ubiquity [aka be everywhere]
Speaking of visibility boosters, there’s something called hubs (also known as “feature accounts”), which are pages that curate and share the most beautiful pictures. A kind of art gallery for Instagram photographers, if you wish – except that you won’t make any money from them. Some embrace photography in all their facets, while others revolve around specific gear (@canon_photos or @nikonusa) or specialize in distinct photography genres, such as portraits (@portraitpage or @portraitmood) or wildlife and nature (@visuals.collective).
To be featured on one of these accounts, you need to use their dedicated hashtag and keep sharing until your work is noticed. Of course, the more stunning your photo is, the greater your chances of getting discovered are. If you succeed, the reward will be huge for your Instagram photography account, as the hubs typically attract thousands, and sometimes millions, of followers hungry for beautiful shots.
06. Don’t expect your photos to do all the talking
On Instagram, you don’t have to write a lot. That’s one of the reasons for its huge success. Still, don’t forget to add a description (or “caption” in social media slang) to each of the images you post. It can be short, but should still be enriched with valuable info for your community.
Lacking inspiration when it comes time to type? Don’t worry, you have much more to tell than you think. For example, you can talk about where your picture was taken, the gear you used or even the people you met along the way. For the more adventurous, shape a funny haiku-like caption to show that you’re as agile with words as you are with your lenses.
Useful tip: don’t forget to tag all the people involved in the photo (from the client who commissioned it, to the hotel where you took it, to other professionals you worked with). This way, you will naturally multiply the chances of your image being seen, liked and commented on.
07. It’s okay not to be perfect
In fact, it’s expected of you not to be. Long gone are the days when people used social media to fuel their dreams of a perfect life. Your followers want to see what it takes to capture those outstanding shots. They want to be involved in every step of the way - from packing your gear to processing tips.
There are two main reasons behind this tendency: content oversaturation and Instagram Stories. People are tired of being exposed to unrealistic expectations, and Stories are the perfect way to share and consume behind-the-scenes content. Use this feature to allow your followers to tag along to your adventures and learn more about you and your work.
Start creating authentic behind-the-scenes content today with our customizable Instagram Story templates.
08. Don’t neglect your profile makeup
Wondering what is the first thing people see when arriving to your account? It’s your Instagram bio. This important section of your profile should always include your username, some personal and professional info, your email address for potential clients and the city you’re located in. Of course, don’t forget your website’s URL. And speaking of your site, make sure you also link to your Instagram photography account. This way your site visitors and social media followers will be directly connected, and all your adoring fans can see the whole picture with a simple click.
Want to take it a step further? Add the Instagram Feed App to your website for free. This will automatically sync your Instagram photos (and videos) straight to your site, in a stunning, customizable layout that fits your unique design. It’s an excellent way to update your portfolio with minimal effort.
09. Share videos to strengthen your account
A video is said to be worth 1.8 million words. If math is not your strong suit, 1.8 million is more than a picture's 1,000 words. We’re living in the golden era of video, especially in social media. This content format achieves what every social network aims for: to have users stare at their screen longer, and consequently spend more time on the platform. Because of this, social media networks actively encourage users to share video content.
10. Remember that followers just wanna have fun
As may now appear obvious, your Instagram account is not your photography website. Why is that exciting? Because you can use it more regularly and more informally - a bit like your daily photo journal. Instagram is a “cool” social media channel where people want to find inspiration, delight for their eyes and have fun too. That means over-branding is a big no. Instead, feel free to post in a playful way by sharing images that you wouldn’t even consider, including in your online portfolio, such as behind the scene shots, snaps of what you carry in your photo bag, and more.
This friendly and casual vibe also applies to your writing – notably in your responses. It’s important to answer every comment you receive to grow your community online and gain the loyalty of followers. Thank the person that wrote to you, and take the opportunity to create a special bond (compliment their work, ask for advice, etc.). Our vote is to always communicate in first person and avoid anything too formal. Remember, this is a chance to grow an amazing community, from which you’ll get feedback, tips and clients – and possibly even friends.
11. Leverage AI tools for efficiency
AI-powered tools can help photographers streamline their Instagram strategy. Use an AI image generator to create stunning visuals or an AI portrait generator to craft unique, professional-looking portraits. From automated photo editing to caption generation and hashtag suggestions, AI can save time and enhance creativity, helping you elevate your Instagram game effortlessly.
Photography Instagram accounts for inspiration
Ready to take your photography skills on Instagram to the next level? We’ve put together a list of the best photography Instagram accounts to inspire your creativity and help you create content that truly stands out.
Breakfast & Bowls
Behold, the drool-worthy results of finding the perfect balance between photography composition rules and food presentation. We recommend you don’t spend too much time on the Breakfast & Bowls feed if you’re feeling slightly hungry.
Roie Galitz
Greenpeace ambassador Roie Galitz uses photography as a tool to raise awareness about climate change and environmental issues. His work will introduce you to the beauty and struggles of the world’s most remote locations, from the frozen vastness of Svalbard to the rushing rivers of Kamchatka.
Akihito Nagata
By stripping scenes of any color, black and white photography teaches us how light and shadow exist in perfect harmony, and how one cannot exist without the other. Amazing Instagram photographer, Akihito Nagata, allows you to step into an exciting, monochromatic world that will change how you see your surroundings.
Louise Amelie Whitehouse
In her quest to capture stories inspired by humans and nature, talented adventurer, Louise Ameli Whitehouse, offers a fresh approach to portrait photography, resulting in a unique study of our inherent connection to the wilderness.
Tim Flach
Wild animals become professional models under this incredible photographer’s eye. Tim Flach's photography Instagram account offers a preview of some of the most breathtaking work, which has been published in several photography books.
Instagram photography tips FAQ
What types of photos should I post on my Instagram account?
The types of photos you post will depend on your niche or brand, but aim for high-quality, visually appealing images. This could include landscapes, portraits, food photography, product shots, etc.
How often should I post on Instagram?
Consistency is key when it comes to growing a following on Instagram. Aim to post at least once a day or a few times a week. You can also use scheduling tools to plan your posts in advance.
How can I increase engagement on my Instagram posts?
Engage with your followers by responding to comments and liking their photos. Use relevant hashtags to reach a larger audience and consider collaborating with other accounts or running contests to boost engagement.
How do I gain more followers on Instagram?
Focus on creating high-quality content that resonates with your target audience. Use hashtags, engage with other users, and collaborate with influencers in your niche. You can also use Instagram ads or promotions to reach a wider audience. It's important to regularly check your insights and adjust your strategy accordingly for optimal growth.
What are the best practices for editing photos for Instagram?
When learning how to edit photos for Instagram, it's important to maintain a consistent aesthetic that aligns with your brand or personal style. Consider using a photo editor like Wixel to enhance the colors and lighting of your photos. Avoid over-filtering or altering the appearance too much, as this can come across as inauthentic.