We talked about how to be a successful social media influencer a while ago with bite-sized tips on how you could be the next Jenn Chia. What we did not mention is how important is Instagram�??s contribution in successfully transforming you into a legit social media influencer! With roughly one BILLION monthly active users on the mobile application, it's easy to see why nearly 80% of brands prefer to utilize the platform for influencer marketing campaigns. Instagram has various features available (i.e. that help to boost the visibility, engagement, and sales of brands.?�
However, there is one feature that continues to set Instagram apart from the other online applications �?? the Instagram feed, the grid page that everyone views when checking out your profile. True to its roots, a user's Instagram feed remains the center to showcase photographs about anything and everything that does not violate its guidelines. What this means for you as an influencer is that the public will use your Instagram feed as a way to decide if you're worth following. In other words, your Instagram feed is the first step to increasing your audience base, so it's extremely crucial to your success. In another way, it's similar to your CV or portfolio, solidifying your skill as a top-notch influencer.
Think of it this way, your Instagram feed is the first impression that you give the public, and we all know what they say about first impressions (Hint: you only have ONE chance to do it right). Hence, it's time you learned how to create an aesthetic Instagram feed to draw in your audience and grow in success as a social media influencer!?�
But first, you need to establish 3 key components of your influencer profile in order to remain consistent throughout your journey �?? your target audience, your brand's core values, and your look. When you understand your target audience and their characteristics, it's easier for you to speak to them. When you've decided on your brand's core values, it's second nature to categorize priorities. When you've figured out the look and feel of your profile, it's simpler for you to design and curate the Instagram posts. Once you have confirmed all 3 components, you're all set to start creating an aesthetic Instagram profile.
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1. Select a theme?�
Instagram feed themes are basically the blueprint for how your profile should look like at the end of the day. It's used to guide you on what type of content to post next and how the photos all come together to form a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing appearance. Besides that, it also helps the public to better gauge the kind of content to expect from your profile in the future with a clear pattern.
There are various themes that have been utilized successfully by influencers and brands from all walks of life. For example, the transition is for those of you who would like to experiment before deciding, the checkerboard is for those of you who can't decide between horizontal or vertical lines), and the repetition is for those of you with a more specific niche like foodie bloggers. If you find that none of the universally used themes suit your vibe, then try creating one of your own!
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2. Selecting a color palette
When scrolling through the list of successful influencer accounts that you follow on Instagram, it's hard not to see a recurring motif. Their contents are designed in such a colorfully unique way that makes you realize it's them without even checking the username. If you think this is just a mere coincidence then think again!. In fact, it's a highly intentional strategy to form brand recognition within the influencer's community of followers.?�
According to a psychological study, color increases brand recognition by 80% which makes it the easiest medium to condition the public into instantly identifying your content. A simple example of this is Kate Spade's brilliant use of transitional colors to make the profile appear connected. As such, it's necessary to find a color palette with a number of complementing colors that resonate with the vibes of your brand. If you don't know where to start, a simple search on Google or Pinterest should provide you with plenty of inspiration!
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3. Plan, plan, plan
As mentioned above, Instagram's grid is one of the social media platform's most notable characteristics that make it stand apart. Its focus on photos ahead of other features plays a key role in its success, emphasizing the way that "a picture is worth a thousand words". That said, it's important to ensure that all your posts fit together like a massive ongoing puzzle with all the highlights of your life.?�
The reason for this is because sometimes the contents that you have lined up might not look aesthetically pleasing next to each other. Like all things in life, there has to be balanced. Your Instagram feed should not look too cluttered or it'll lose its long-term appeal. One way to combat this is by making use of the various Instagram feed planner tools available online to schedule before making the post live.
Tip: Arrange busy pictures next to clean images to even out the field of depth and make it easier on the eyes.?�
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With all that said, the beauty of your social media profile is that it's yours and there is no right or wrong way to express yourself. Take these tips and personalize it to make them your own! Whether you're new to the influencer industry or a veteran, why not test out your newfound Instagram skills and build up your influencer portfolio?
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