At first glance, Instagram may appear like a user-friendly app (and in many ways it is!) however, when it comes to getting the most out of the platform, here is a list of easy and useful tips to help you build and grow your account.

(Photo by Zachary Leung)

Organize your content.

One of the easiest and best ways to create a beautiful, user-friendly account is to start building a brand or layout.

This can be as simple as applying the same/similar filters to every picture, or as advanced as creating an overall color scheme or design. A simple way to do this is to plan out your posts with an app like Preview or UNUM, which allows you to see how photos will look next to one another before actually publishing.

Stay consistent.

Keeping your account active and posting regularly will help to build not only your following but your presence in the newsfeed. Whether you set specific days and times for posts, or use a service like Buffer, (which will automatically post or send you a push notification), you can stay on top of your account and what’s shared (even when you’re busy).

Use an editing app.

There are so many apps available for increasing the quality of your images. If you’re looking for top-of-the-line, Lightroom is an app for purchase that allows you to edit images on your laptop and phone. You can edit particular colors, overall layouts, and even fix the tiniest of details with ease. Another option is VSCO, which has both free and for purchase options. This helps you work with individual photo aspects, as well as overall filters.

If these are too advanced, take advantage of the in-app customizers and filters that Instagram provides, free of charge!

Connect with other accounts.

Building engagement is not only about focusing on your brand but about reaching out to other accounts. Do your best to follow, comment, and interact with people, companies, brands, etc. This will help your social presence, while showing other accounts that you are, in fact, a real person—thus creating more ‘buzz’ and attention around what your page has to offer.