The world of social media and online marketing has drastically evolved over the past couple of years. Social media platforms are upping their game knowing that any minute, new trends will overtake what they are currently promoting.
The role of photographers can’t be underestimated in today’s digital world. Well paying gigs are available, but are usually approved for those who have a good online presence.
These changes have also made a lot of content creators, online ambassadors, and influencers rethink the way they go about advertising and promoting their content online.
One of the biggest social media platforms making waves today is Instagram. Everything about instagram advertising is changing, and you definitely need to learn more about it in order to stay in the game.
But even if you don’t have a big budget for paid advertising on the platform, there are still a number of ways to advertise yourself, and build a successful online presence.
Travel Photographers: How to Advertise Yourself on Instagram
Build Your Following
Before you can work with brands and companies, it stands to reason that you should first work on your Instagram profile. You want to be noticed as an already successful photographer who can represent their destination, products and/or services.
Previously, a photographer’s work would speak for itself, but nowadays you will become the face and voice of a certain brand or company. As such, one way of advertising yourself, without necessarily having to spend big marketing $$$ is making sure you have built a good following.
Stay true to what you are showing to the public by maintaining good content and a clearly defined niche. Keep in mind that your Instagram is acting as a professional online portfolio that allows you to showcase your talent and skills in a presentable manner.
You may hate Instagram like a lot of professional photographers do, but you can’t afford to ignore it when you want to build a strong online presence.
Post Regularly and Engage With Your Followers
When it comes to advertising yourself on Instagram, it’s not enough that you just post content and leave it there. In order to widen your reach, you need to encourage your followers or relevant people by engaging with them through comments.
Make sure you’re replying to comments left on your page, as brands today are also looking for an engaged audience – not just numbers. High numbers without any interaction on your account signifies that people follow you, but they don’t actually care about what you do.
Whenever possible, tag other users/accounts when you post your images. These users could other popular photographers or celebrities that were with you during different projects. You might also tag the brands you want to work with.
Also, make hashtags and geotags your best friends and use them liberally as these are one of the best free ways to increase Instagram followers.
Ie, if you shoot wildlife photography, you can use hashtags like #animalsaddict #instanaturefriends #wildlifeplanet and #wildlife_seekers.
Only Post High-Quality Images
This is something that can’t be stressed enough; only post high-quality images on Instagram. People are visual beings and it matters that what we see looks absolutely great.
As a photographer, one of the best ways to encourage people to follow you is if you give them great visual content. And remember that this is your professional online portfolio, so you should craft an image of yourself you want prospective brands to see.
While you should never settle for mediocre images, it’s equally as important to retain a certain level of authenticity. A lot of photographers get swayed easily in trying other things that people want and in the process lose their own identity.
Remain authentic with your craft and identity. Before publishing new content, make sure to take time and reflect on whether what you’re publishing is content that you truly believe.
[clickToTweet tweet=”Only post high-quality images on Instagram. People are visual, and it does matter that what we see looks great.” quote=”Only post high-quality images on Instagram. People are visual, and it does matter that what we see looks great.”]
Tell Your Story Through Words as Well
While a lot of people look on Instagram for good visual content, telling your story through words can also make a difference.
Always be creative with your captions to add more context to the photos you are posting. This effectively draws people to your content not just visually because you can connect with them emotionally through your words.
Tell your story when you are advertising yourself, because storytelling will never get old. It is still the best way to reach out to people and be heard.
Today is the Day to Get Started
It’s true that the Internet has opened many doors for the professional photographers. However, this also means that there is a lot of noise and competition too which is why the personal branding is extremely important,
If you have never taken personal branding seriously, then today is as good as any to get started. You might just be surprised by the positive changes it can bring!
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Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Her husband Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.
Having visited 50+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.
