Honing your hashtag strategy on Instagram
The ability to upload your pics straight from the platform to transform into a quality customised canvas has been a fundamental part of our offering here at Parrot Print from the very beginning because we love the convenience and ease of sharing that Instagram offers. If you’re a photographer that wants to get their work noticed, promoting your photography on Instagram may be able to open doors for you, but how can you make sure your work is seen? To help you on your way we’ve outlined some hashtag tactics to help you hone your Insta-strategy. Happy ‘grammin, folks!
Avoid overcrowding
Using extraordinarily popular hashtag is a little bit like arriving late to a party, you’re likely to find it’s already overcrowded and the best bits may have already happened. Hashtags such as #photooftheday started out being used to mark standout photos but now they’re more like an overcrowded party where it will be difficult for your work to stand out.
Find your niche
If there’s something you particularly want to be known for it’s good to spend some time following other Instagrammers in the niche to see which hashtags they adopt. Remember, you should only ever use a hashtag if it’s relevant to what you’re posting because spamming isn’t welcomed! However whether you’re all about portraits, landscape, nature or street photography you’ll find a range of specific hashtags to help highlight your work.
Take advantage of readymade communities
As you start to explore your particular niche on Instagram you’re likely to follow certain publications or photography hubs. These accounts often provide opportunities to be featured if you tag them in your photos. While we can’t promise this will lead to bookings it is a great way to put your work in front of a wider interested audience.
Similarly, taking part in photo challenges and competitions can provide publicity and if you’re successful, prizes too. However, before you get giddy posting too many entries, be sure to check out the competition rules to ensure you are comfortable with how your work may be used and the reward you’ll be given should you win.
Along with checking out relevant platforms, publications and challenges, think about your target market. For example, if you want to market your wedding photography business you could try tapping in to hashtags like #weddingblogger or even #weddinghour (originated on Twitter) along with showcasing your relevant images like #bridalvenue #weddingdress #bridalbouquet etc. Couples who are getting married are likely to be looking for inspiration for all elements of their big day and could therefore come across your work in the process.
Have you made it your mission to market yourself more successfully on Instagram this year? Whatever your sharing strategy, don’t forget Instagram isn’t all about followers, spending time commenting on the photos of others can help you to build a bigger network and to explore new ideas and inspiration too. Do you have any hints or tips for photographers starting out on Instagram? Comment below or join the conversation over on Twitter.