Want to step up your Instagram game? Good news—you don’t need to be a professional photographer or have photography experience to do so!

Whether you hope to increase engagement, build your following, or promote your brand, we compiled a list of quick, simple steps to make your Instagram feed pop. Here are a few tips for creating an enticing, eye-catching profile.

1. Use natural light.

While this tip is simple, it is essential. Using natural lighting will automatically enhance the quality of your photos and overall feed, whether you are using an expensive camera or an iPhone. If you are taking a snapshot indoors, try facing an open window.

 In addition, there are certain times of day that will provide the best natural light. Have you heard of “golden hour?” Golden hour takes place right before sunset, and casts a golden-yellow glow on portrait subjects. It’s like a real-life filter!

2. Use color coordination.

Curating a color palette for your photos will create a cohesive, visually-appealing feed. Try choosing 2-3 colors that are consistently present in your pictures. This is also a great way to brand yourself or your business.

If you need inspiration for creating a color palette, Color-Hex is a helpful tool. 

3. Take candid photos.

It is time to put everything you learned from yearbook portraits and family photos to the side!

When taking pictures of yourself, candid photography is the way to go. Instead of striking a pose or smiling for the camera, try pretending that it isn’t even there. In addition, take continuous photo bursts for natural action shots. This will not only prevent stiff, awkward poses, but will add a human element to your feed. Candid photos come across as more authentic and relatable to your following.

4. Use the Rule of Thirds.

The Rule of Thirds is a guideline for framing your photos properly and effectively.

The rule is simple: break up any image you want to photograph into a 3x3 grid, so you have 9 equal sections. Then, position your subject in an area where the lines intersect. Following this guideline will improve the composition of your feed and create  more visually-appealing profile.

5. Use contrast.

Instagram users scroll through hundreds of pictures on their feeds per day. So, what can you do to catch their attention? Use contrast in your photos! Using a background and subject that are on opposite sides of the color wheel will add a pop to your photo. Try combining light and dark shades, and warm and cool tones.

6. Add depth.

Adding depth and dimension to your Instagram photos will create a more interesting, unique feed. In addition to your subject, include layers of patterns, landscapes, or objects. To stand apart from your social media competitors, consider different angles: rather than taking each picture from eye-level, try new perspectives.

7. Be careful with filters.

While filters are quite popular on Instagram, they can be tricky. Using heavy, intense filters can take away from the quality and authenticity of your photo. However, filters can still be a great tool for improving your pictures and branding yourself.

When choosing a filter, try minimizing the strength of the filter for a more subtle enhancement. In addition, use the same filter for each picture you post to create consistency.

If you are searching for more layout, composition, or photo inspiration, visit our Instagram page!