Instagram has quickly become one of the most popular social media platforms, boasting a massive user base. By April 2019, the platform had surpassed 1 billion active monthly users, making it impossible for any brand or marketer to overlook. It has evolved into a crucial social media marketing tool, teeming with influencers, brands, and marketers eager to tap into its vast audience.
Use Instagram for Beginners Step-by-Step
Are you new to Instagram and feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the features and options? This beginner’s guide will walk you through everything you need to know to start using Instagram like a pro.
Setting Up Your Profile
- Download the App: Start by downloading the Instagram app from stores.
- Sign Up: Create an account using your email address, phone number, or by linking your Facebook account.
- Choose a Username: Pick a unique username that represents you.
- Add a Profile Picture: Choose a clear and recognizable image.
- Write a Bio: Summarize who you are or what your brand is about in a few lines.
Navigating Instagram
- Home Feed: This is where you’ll see posts from people you follow. Scroll through your feed to like, comment, or share posts.
- Search & Explore: Use the magnifying glass icon to search for users, hashtags, or content. The Explore page shows posts and Reels based on your interests.
- Posting Content: Tap the ‘+’ icon to create a new post. You can upload photos or videos, add filters, write captions, and use hashtags to increase visibility.
- Stories: Instagram Stories appear at the top of your feed. Tap the profile circles to view Stories from people you follow. To create your own, tap your profile circle or the camera icon in the top left corner.
- Notifications: The heart icon shows your recent activity, including likes, comments, new followers, and mentions.
Creating Your First Post
- Capture or Upload: Take a photo or video directly in the app, or upload one from your camera roll.
- Edit: Use Instagram’s filters and editing tools to enhance your content. You can adjust brightness, contrast, saturation, and more.
- Write a Caption: Add a caption to your post. Keep it engaging—ask a question, add an emoji, or tell a story.
- Use Hashtags: Hashtags help categorize your content and make it discoverable to others who are interested in similar topics. Use relevant hashtags to reach a wider audience.
- Share: Once you’re happy with your post, tap ‘Share’ to publish it on your profile.
Exploring Main Instagram Features
The Instagram app has many interesting features designed to enhance user interaction and creativity. The most important and famous of these features are the following:
- Instagram Stories
- Instagram Reels
- Instagram Live
- Instagram Shopping
Engaging with Others
- Follow Accounts: Start by following friends, family, or accounts that interest you. Instagram will suggest accounts based on your interests.
- Like and Comment: Engage with posts by liking or leaving comments.
- Direct Messages: Use the paper plane icon to send private messages to other users. You can share posts, chat, or start group conversations.
- Tagging: Tag friends or brands in your posts by using the “@” symbol followed by their username.
How to Stay Safe and Secure on Instagram?
There are several steps that we recommend everyone also take to make their account even more secure:
- Privacy Settings: Control who can see your posts by adjusting your privacy settings.
- Report & Block: If you encounter inappropriate content or harassment, you can report or block the user from interacting with you.
- Two-Factor Authentication: Enhance your account security by enabling two-factor authentication.
- Security Checkup: a new feature to help people keep their Instagram accounts secure.
Building Your Instagram Community
- Be Consistent: Regularly post content to keep your followers engaged. Consistency helps you stay on top of your audience’s mind.
- Interact: Respond to comments and messages to build relationships with your followers. The more you engage, the more connected your community will feel.
- Stay Authentic: Share content that reflects who you are or what your brand stands for. Authenticity resonates with audiences and builds trust.
