As a Business Brand Photographer, I focus a lot of my social media efforts on Instagram, where visual branding really takes the main stage. I’m always trying to keep pace with the latest trends and practices here, discovering truths that allow me to turn posts into clients. (Yes, it is possible!)
Instagram has become such a valuable resource for my business and my branding. Today I’m sharing some of the many tips and tricks I’ve discovered along my journey, and the routines I tend to follow when crafting posts that will blend in beautifully with my feed.
Let’s dive in!
#1. Posting frequency. I post twice a day: once in the morning and then later that evening. It keeps my brand relevant and top-of-mind for my followers – and the frequency fits my schedule. If there are times that work better for you, create your own schedule and don’t be afraid to test new times to post!
#2. Keep your feed a mix of personal and professional: a little bit of you and a little bit of your work. Add in a sprinkle of your family if you want to – they’ve been supporters of your brand and are a key part of your journey. Kiddos and dogs may be adorable, but try not to go overboard on that kind of content.
#3. Feel free to mix professional photos with photos taken on your phone. Try to keep consistency with your brand aesthetic, but allow yourself the flexibility to use both.
#4. Lighting matters! When you’re taking a photo for Instagram, get yourself close to a natural light source, and feel free to experiment to find that perfect lighting.
#5. Go easy on Instagram filters and editing. Humans resonate with real, so try to keep your feed looking that way.
#6. Here comes a don’t. Please, don’t use Pic Stitch or other photo collage apps! Instagram has a multiple photo feature that lets you post up to 10 photos at a time. Use that feature to keep each photo separate, and let them shine.
#7. When writing captions for posts, explain exactly what you do (in really simple terms), show examples of what that means – and remind people of it. Often.
#8. Use Instagram Stories! It’s literally your own personal TV channel (for free), placing your brand in front of A LOT of eyes on Instagram. It may be uncomfortable at first, but allow yourself the patience and practice to grow.
#9. Be a cheerleader to other users. Show them love. When we show love, we get love in return. (And that’s a big part of increasing engagement.)
#10. Always respond to comments on your posts and engage with other users. I’m talking about more than just throwing some emojis up there. Take a moment to find the right words – it makes a HUGE difference!
#11. Be a tad vulnerable – as much as you can stomach. Share more about yourself, your story. Humans connect to this. (And you want to create a brand that resonates with others, right?)
#12. Smile and show your passion for the work you do! People will want to support you when you’re bursting with passion and supporting yourself on this journey.
#13. Create curiosity and be a little mischievous in whatever way you can. It reminds the rest of us that we are all still really children.
Raya Al-Hashmi
Raya On Assignment
Business Brand Photographer
www.rayaonassignment.com
@rayaonassignment
Instagram
Facebook
Raya is a rockstar entrepreneur and a master behind the lens. Plus, we think she’s killing it on social media. That’s why we asked her to share her Instagram tips with you. We’re delighted to have her be our guest blogger for the Muffington Post. Be sure to check her out on Instagram and Facebook to see what she’s up to these days. And stay tuned…Raya will be guest blogging for us again!
