Instagram Archives - Hopper HQ https://www.hopperhq.com/blog/tag/instagram/ The #1 Social Media Tool for Small Business Tue, 23 Jul 2024 14:14:58 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.3.2 https://www.hopperhq.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/256-copy-60x60.png Instagram Archives - Hopper HQ https://www.hopperhq.com/blog/tag/instagram/ 32 32 The 2024 Instagram Rich List — Who are The Top Instagram Earners? https://www.hopperhq.com/blog/2024-instagram-rich-list/ Tue, 23 Jul 2024 14:09:38 +0000 https://www.hopperhq.com/?p=19175 Find out the top profiles for the 2024 Instagram Rich List, who’s jumped the rankings, and who has fallen down it. Some come as a surprise… With Christiano Ronaldo still in the lead for the 2nd year in a row., he has also been nominated as the top social media unicorn for 2024, accumulating over […]

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Find out the top profiles for the 2024 Instagram Rich List, who’s jumped the rankings, and who has fallen down it. Some come as a surprise…

With Christiano Ronaldo still in the lead for the 2nd year in a row., he has also been nominated as the top social media unicorn for 2024, accumulating over 1 billion followers on all his social channels.

Based on Hopper HQ internal data, agency rates, and public information, you can now find out just how much your favorite celebrities are earning for their sponsored posts in this current year.

With AI influencers on the rise, we’ve also ranked the top AI influencers, with many new candidates present for this year!  Of course, we can’t forget TikTok and its top-paid profiles!

👉 Check out the full 2024 Instagram Rich List here! 👈

🤑 The Top 10 Highest-Earning Instagram Stars 🤑

1. Cristiano Ronaldo

👥 633 million followers
💵 $3,432,000 per post

Cristiano Ronaldo continues to sit at the top of the list with the highest-ever potential earning, making an average of $ 3.4 million per post compared to $3.2 million per post last year. Not only is Cristiano Ronaldo at the forefront of the Instagram rich list but also the top 2024 Social Media Unicorn, with a total following of 945,000,000 million.

2. Lionel Messi

👥 503 million followers
💵 $2,731.000 per post

It’s no surprise that Lionel Messi places himself right behind his competitor Ronaldo. The increase of around 30 million followers may have come from his successful move to MLS and media partnership with Apple TV last summer, but it’s also inextricably linked to who he is as a person.

3. Selena Gomez

👥 426 million followers
💵 $2,560,000 per post

Selena Gomez still holds strong in 3rd place on the Instagram Richlist. With not much change in followers or price per post, she continues to be the most followed female profile in the world. Even though recently shared her relationship with Benny Blanco, this has not impact her presence one bit!

4. Kylie Jenner

👥 399 million followers
💵 $2,395,000 per post

Kylie Jenner, who used to be the runner-up, has fallen to 4th place in the 2023 Instagram Rich List but continues to hold her position for 2024. With the release of her new brand, Khy, you would think that her popularity would have increased more than just 2 million, however, she might have not gotten the success she hoped for with it.

5. Dwayne Johnson

👥 396 million  followers
💵 $2,382,000 per post

Dwayne Johnson, commonly known as “The Rock” continues at 5th on the 2024 Rich List, the same position as in 2023 and 2022.  However, with a 9 million increase in followers since last year, proven to be one of the social media favorites. It might be due to his presence in several types of entertainment, from movies to game shows like Titan that came out on Netflix earlier this year.

Simple Post, Story + Reel Scheduling ✨

Visually plan your social content. Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn + Pinterest

6. Ariana Grande

👥 378 million followers
💵 $2,272,000 per post

Ariana Grande with an increase of 1 million followers, still holds at 6th place in the 2024 Instagram Rich List. The release of her most recent album “Internal Sunshine” is most likely the culprit of this slight jump in followings. We may be looking at another jump in followers with the release of her next movie “Wicked”.

7. Kim Kardashian

👥 361 million followers
💵 $2,172,000 per post

At 7th place you can find Kim Kardashian, who’s dropped down to this position since 2022 as she has gotten quite a bit of backlash when it comes to her partnership with Balenciaga. Now she has lost another 1 million followers, which many are relating to the diss track, “thanK you aIMee” in Talor Swifts new album.

8. Beyonce

👥 317 million followers
💵 $1,908,000 per post

Beyonce however, has kept her eighth place for the fourth year in a row! The Queen B continues to keep her place in the top 10 richest Instagram celebrities. Her Renassiance Tour where her daughter Blue Ivy was present, has contributed to the 3 million increase in followers.

9. Khloe Kardashian

👥 310 million followers
💵 $1,865,236 per post

Khloe Kardashian jumps to 9th place, shown to be a favourite amongst the Kardashian fans. Making her the 3rd best-paid Kardashian/Jenner after Kylie and Kim. Having had a tough time with her relationship with Tristian Thompson and the birth of her second child, she has won her fans’ hearts. 

10. Justin Bieber

👥 293 million followers
💵 $1,762,436 per post

Justin Bieber continues to hold the 10 best-paid Instagram celebrities, his following and cost per post however, haven’t made much growth compared to 2023. With Hailey Biebers’ recent pregnancy announcement, we should expect Justin to fall lower in the rankings as he starts his “dad life”.

Check out the full 2024 Instagram Rich List here – featuring the highest-earning social media stars.

You might also like:
The 2024 TikTok Rich List
The 2024 Top AI Influencers
The 2024 Social Media Unicorns
The Most Followed Brands in 2024

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How to Get Verified on Instagram and Earn a Blue Checkmark https://www.hopperhq.com/blog/get-verified-on-instagram/ Tue, 23 Jan 2024 16:01:31 +0000 https://www.hopperhq.com/?p=17978 While everyone wants to get verified on Instagram, not a lot of people know how to go about it the right way.  If you’ve tried different tactics to get the blue check without any success or you’re not sure how to get started, this article is for you. Today’s article will review how to get […]

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While everyone wants to get verified on Instagram, not a lot of people know how to go about it the right way. 

If you’ve tried different tactics to get the blue check without any success or you’re not sure how to get started, this article is for you.

Today’s article will review how to get your account verified on Instagram – whether it’s a personal or brand account. You’ll also learn tips you can use to increase your chances of getting verified.

But before we get started…

What Is the Blue Checkmark on Instagram?

The blue checkmark is a verification badge used to signify an account’s authenticity. Instagram introduced this feature to help vet high-profile and reputable accounts.  It’s also effective in helping their users easily distinguish these accounts.

Putting blue checkmarks beside verified accounts is a brilliant way to distinguish legitimate and real accounts from impersonators or fan pages. It also assures users that they are engaging with the legitimate account of a public figure, celebrity, or brand. 

For example:

A well-known singer, like Taylor Swift, has many fan pages or copycat accounts. What differentiates her account from the others is the blue checkmark next to her name. 

With her verification badge, it’s easy to tell her account apart from fake accounts or fan pages.

Also, it’s easy to distinguish Eater Chicago’s account (a food news and dining guide publication) from other accounts with a similar name. 

Verified eater chicago profile

Their blue checkmark helps the publication stand out from copycat accounts or brands with similar names.

How many followers do you need on Instagram to get verified?

There is a common misconception about how having a large number of followers helps you get verified. 

The truth is your followers don’t guarantee your account verification. It’s not one of the requirements Instagram considers when verifying an account.

Accounts with just a few followers can be verified if Instagram considers them noteworthy. Seeing a verified account in a small niche isn’t unlikely especially if they have made a significant impact in their niche. 

What is the Benefit of Being Verified on Instagram?

Getting verified on Instagram comes with a lot of benefits that can positively impact both individuals and brands.

In this section, we will highlight some of the key benefits of having a verified account.

1) Builds Credibility and Trust

A blue checkmark next to an Instagram account signals that your account is authentic. Your followers also know that your account has undergone Instagram’s verification process.

Getting verified helps public figures, celebrities, and brands establish trust with their followers. Anyone following their accounts is confident that they are engaging with a genuine person. People are also more likely to trust the content shared by these accounts.

2) Increase Brand Visibility & Reach

Another benefit of getting verified on Instagram is that it can increase your brand visibility.

This is because verified accounts are more likely to appear at the top of search results, making it easier for users to find and follow them. 

Not only that, the algorithm is more likely to suggest verified accounts in the “Explore” section. This means accounts that are verified get more visibility and exposure than unverified accounts.

3) Access to Special Features

Instagram often grants verified users access to special features. This can be early access to test new features that are not available to the public. Or it can be access to advanced analytics tools. 

A good example is the “Swipe Up” feature that is available for accounts with verification or 10,000 followers. This feature lets you add a link to your website in your Instagram stories.

4) Prevents Impersonation

Having the blue checkmark protects against impersonation attempts. It also makes it easier for users to identify the real account.

Another benefit, particularly for influencers, is that no one can imitate you. Well, even if they could — but it would be clear that they are fake profiles.

5) Reduce Misinformation

By confirming the authenticity of accounts associated with public figures, news outlets, and brands, Instagram contributes to a more reliable information ecosystem. Your followers can rely on verified accounts for accurate and trustworthy content.

6) Help you Stand out in the Crowd

With a vast number of Instagram profiles, the blue badge acts as a spotlight, making your account easily distinguishable. It’s a visual cue and signifies that you’re someone worth following.

Imagine a small business competing for attention in the crowded e-commerce space. The verified badge can be a game-changer, drawing potential customers to your account.

How to Request for Instagram Verification?

In this section, we’ll be outlining how to get your account verified on Instagram by requesting it. This process involves the following steps:

1) Follow Instagram Guidelines

Instagram uses different criteria to determine if you’re eligible for verification.

First off, your account must adhere to Instagram’s Terms of Use and Community Guidelines.

Also, your Instagram account should consider the following:

  • Be authentic: Your account needs to represent a real person, or a registered business or entity. This means that parody, fake, or fan accounts are not eligible for verification.
  • Be unique: Your account must be the only one representing a person or organization. Accounts with general interests will not be eligible for verification. However, there are exceptions for language-specific accounts.
  • Have a public account: You need to have a public account to be eligible to request verification.
  • Have a complete account: You must complete your Instagram account’s Bio and have a profile picture. Your account should also be active when applying.

2) Prove That Your Account Is Notable

According to the Instagram Help Center, they only verify accounts featured in many news sources. Your account should also be well-known and highly searched.

If you or your brand has received press coverage or media mentions, you can use this to your advantage. When requesting to get verified, make sure you compile a list of features that highlight your (or your brand’s) achievements and impact. This not only showcases your notability but also helps Instagram verify your authenticity.

Note: Instagram doesn’t consider paid or sponsored media content.

3) Submit a Verification Request

The next step is to request for your verification. This process shouldn’t take more than a few minutes and you can do it on your Instagram app.

Here’s how to request to be verified on Instagram:

  • From your Instagram account, click on the hamburger menu at the top right corner.
  • Hit on Settings and Privacy.
  • Tap Creator/Business Tools and Controls in the ‘For professionals’ section.
  • Tap Request verification at the bottom of the page. 
  • Complete the form by providing details such as an identification document (like a driver’s license or passport), your creator category, and links to various articles and other sites where you are featured. 
  • Once you have filled in all the required information, click on the Submit button.

How Long Does It Take to Get an Instagram Verification?

You will be notified from Instagram within 30 days if your application is successful. If you don’t get verified, you can apply again after a month.

When making another request, make sure it’s after 30 days from your initial request. You should also ensure that you’re not making sending multiple applications. This is because Instagram will cancel your entire application if you make another request before they review your initial request.

How to Get Verified on Instagram With Meta Verified?

Meta Verified is a subscription bundle that allows Instagram and Facebook users to get a blue check badge. The subscription costs $14.99/month and gives subscribers access to account verification, protection from impersonation, access to human support agents, and more.

As of the time of writing, Meta Verified is only available to individuals and not brands. To get verified using this route, here’s a step-by-step process you should follow:

First, you need to make sure you meet the Meta Verified eligibility requirements which are:

  • You must be at least 18 years old.
  • Have a public or private profile that’s associated with your full name and has a profile photo that includes your face.
  • You must meet minimum activity requirements, such as prior posting history.
  • You must have a valid photo ID that matches your profile name and profile picture.
  • You must enable two-factor authentication on your profile.
  • You must adhere to Instagram’s Terms of Use and Community Guidelines.

If you’re sure you meet all the requirements, then you can follow this process to sign up for Meta Verified:

  1. ​​Tap on your Instagram profile at the bottom right of the app.
  2. Click on the hamburger menu.
  3. Choose ‘Meta Verified’ then click ‘Next’.
  4. Choose the Meta accounts you’d like verified.
  5. Confirm and pay.

6 Tips to Help Get Verified on Instagram

Looking to get that coveted blue checkmark on Instagram? Here, we’ll be sharing four essential tips to help boost your chances of getting verified on the platform:

1. Optimize Your Profile

Ensure your Instagram profile is a digital showcase. Use a clear profile picture and a concise bio that highlights your identity. You can also include a link to your website in your bio.

Having a well-curated profile will make it easier for Instagram and users to understand who you are. It also helps you establish a distinct and unique presence which is an important verification factor.

2. Be Consistent

Regular posting on your Instagram shows that you are active on the platform. This consistent presence is a positive signal for Instagram indicating that you are committed to sharing content and interacting with your audience.

Consistency in posting also helps build and keep the interest of your audience. When followers know they can expect regular content from you, they are more likely to stay engaged and loyal.

Using an Instagram scheduling tool helps you schedule posts in advance. This feature will allow you to plan, create, and schedule content on Instagram. With Hopper HQ, you can visually plan & publish posts, Instagram stories, and reels.

plan post with Hopper HQ

3. Engage With Your Followers

Engaging regularly with your followers creates a sense of community around your profile. When you respond to comments, like, and join conversations, it makes your Instagram followers feel appreciated and connected to your brand.

If you have a sizable and involved group of followers, it suggests that your account is of interest to the public in your niche. Instagram can take this into account when deciding on verification requests.

4. Gain Media Coverage

Media coverage serves as external validation of your identity or the significance of your account. Therefore, having a reputable media outlet feature or mention you adds credibility to your online presence.

Gaining media coverage also indicates that your activities or persona are of public interest. Instagram is more likely to verify accounts that are notable and of public interest. 

5. Don’t Buy Verification from Third-Parties Platforms

Purchasing verification from unauthorized third parties comes with a lot of risks. First of all, doing this means that you’re directly violating Instagram’s terms of service. Your account can get penalized or suspended if Instagram finds out you get your blue check through dubious means.

Also, you’re susceptible to falling to fraudulent companies that will scam you without delivering the promised results. And even if they manage to secure a verification badge for your account, it could be temporary, and Instagram may revoke it once they detect the fraudulent activity.

Instagram has strict guidelines against linking to other social media platforms in your bio. Linking to other platforms may bar you from being eligible for verification or make getting verified difficult. Therefore, we will recommend against adding links to other external platforms in your bio.

The only exception is that you can link to your Facebook account which is also owned by Meta. You can also add links to your website in your bio.

Wrapping it up

While it’s evident that getting verified on Instagram has a lot of benefits, the process itself requires you to be strategic.

To increase your chances of getting a blue badge, you need to ensure you’re consistently creating content that resonates with your followers. Doing so helps you establish yourself as a go-to in your industry and increases your chances of getting verified.

Hooper HQ is equipped with features that help you approach content creation by planning. This way your account can be consistent. To keep on top of your Instagram game, try Hopper HQ planning and scheduling capabilities for free! 

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Best Time To Post On Threads https://www.hopperhq.com/blog/best-time-to-post-on-threads/ Mon, 20 Nov 2023 17:36:53 +0000 https://www.hopperhq.com/?p=17627 Instagram Threads is a new social networking app by Meta that allows users to post and reply to threads. Threads can include short text, links, photos, videos, or any combination. Now, the question is, when is the best time to post on Threads? Threads has quickly gained a huge number of users thanks to the […]

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Instagram Threads is a new social networking app by Meta that allows users to post and reply to threads. Threads can include short text, links, photos, videos, or any combination. Now, the question is, when is the best time to post on Threads?

Threads has quickly gained a huge number of users thanks to the backing of Instagram. It has 23.6 million daily active users now.

To get the most out of Threads, you need to know when to post. The best time to post on Threads depends on some factors, including your audience, your content, and your goals.

The Best Time to Post on Threads

Based on data from Threads Insights, the best time to post on Threads is between 8 am and 10 am on Thursdays.

The best time to post on Threads is between 8 am and 10 am on Thursdays.

  • Morning: 6 am-9 am
  • Afternoon: 12 pm-2 pm
  • Evening: 7 pm-9 pm
  • Night: 11 pm-1 am
Best time to post on Instagram Threads

What Is Instagram Threads

Instagram Threads is a social networking app that was launched in 2023. It’s a clear ripoff of Twitter, and it’s clear that Meta is trying to compete with X (formerly known as Twitter).

You can create 500-character text-based posts. You’ll get a chronological feed where you can create threads and replies. You can follow each other as well.

In addition to these similarities, Threads also has a few unique features. For example, Threads users can create and share brief stories similar to Snapchat Stories. Threads also has a close friends feature, allowing users to share posts with a select group.

Despite its unique features, Threads is still a clear ripoff of Twitter. Meta is trying to take market share from X.

It is also worth noting that the Musk-Zuckerberg drama will likely play a role in the competition between Threads and X. Musk has been critical of X in the past and even hinted that he might create his own social media platform.

If you’re looking for the best time to post on Instagram instead of Threads, then we have a guide for that too.

What is The Best Time to Post on Instagram Threads?

The best time to post on Instagram Threads depends on several factors, including your audience, your content, and your goals. However, there are some general guidelines that you can follow.

Based on data from Threads Insights, the best times to post on Threads are:

  • Morning: 6 am-9 am
  • Afternoon: 12 pm-2 pm
  • Evening: 7 pm-9 pm
  • Night: 11 pm-1 am

These are the times when most users are active on Threads, so you are more likely to reach a wider audience if you post at these times.

However, remember that your audience may differ from the average Threads user. For example, if your audience is mostly students, you may want to post during the afternoon or evening, when they are more likely to be online. Additionally, if you are posting content relevant to specific events or trends, you may want to post when those events or trends are most popular.

Best time to post on Threads on Monday

The best time to post Instagram Threads on Monday is before 1 pm. On Mondays most users are getting ready for their week, so most likely to only look through their social channels starting by lunchtime.

Best time to post on Threads on Tuesday

By Tuesday, users will be active earlier during the day. Now, that the work week has begun, users will most likely check their Instagram Threads during their commute. Plan on publishing around 7 am to 10 am.

Best time to post on Threads on Wednesday

Wednesdays is when most people struggle with a mid-week slump. Although not good for their productivity, it does mean they’re most likely to be scrolling through Instagram Threads. So, the best time to post on Threads on Wednesday is right before lunch and before people leave work. This would be between 10 am to 1 pm and then again from 4 pm to 6 pm.

Best time to post on Threads on Thursday

As the week comes to an end and people start feeling the urgency of completing tasks, motivation increases. With this, the best time to post on Threads on a Thursday is in the morning, around 8 am to 11 pm.

Best time to post on Threads Friday

The best time to post on Instagram Threads on a Friday would most likely start from the lunch rush onwards. We would suggest start posting starting by 12 pm and then again starting around 3 pm.

Best time to post on Threads on Saturday

Like on Instagram, the best time to post on Threads on a Saturday is early in the morning, between 7 am and 10 am. This is because more users will choose to sleep in and are likely to scroll through their phones during waking hours.

Best time to post on threads Sunday

On Sundays, it’s the opposite of what happens on Saturdays. Users are more likely to be busy during the day and choose to relax and unwind closer to the evening. We suggest posting right after lunch time starting at 3 pm to 7 pm.

Why Does The Best Time to Post on Threads Matter?

The best time to post on Threads matters because it can significantly impact your reach and engagement. If you post at the right times, you are more likely to be seen by your target audience and generate interest in your content.

Here are some of the reasons why the best time to post on Threads matters-

  • Increased reach: When you post at the best times, your content is more likely to be seen by your target audience. This is because Threads displays posts in chronological order, so posts published during peak usage times are more likely to be shown at the top of users’ feeds.
  • Improved engagement: Posting at the best times can also improve engagement. When your followers are online and active, they are more likely to see your posts, like them, comment on them, and share them with their followers.
  • Better results: When you consistently post at the best times, you will see better results from your Threads efforts. You will have a larger reach, higher engagement, and more website traffic.

What is The Best Type of Content to Post on Threads?

The best type of content to post on Threads depends on your audience, your brand, and your goals. However, some general types of content tend to perform well on Threads. Like-

  • Short, engaging text: Threads users typically seek short, easy-to-read content. Avoid posting long blocks of text, and focus on writing concisely and to the point. Memes also do very well.
  • Visually appealing content: Images and videos are a great way to capture attention and engage your audience. Use high-quality visuals in your Threads posts to make them more visually appealing.
  • Conversational content: Threads is a social platform, so it’s important to post content that encourages conversation. Ask questions, share your thoughts and opinions, and respond to comments.
  • Timely and relevant content: Post content that is relevant to what is happening in the world and your industry. Share breaking news, industry trends, and behind-the-scenes content.

Learn how to Get followers on Instagram Threads here.

How Many Times Should I Post on Threads?

The number of times you should post on Threads depends on your audience, your content, and your goals. However, a good rule of thumb is to post 4-10 times per day. This is similar to the recommended posting frequency for Twitter.

If you don’t post often enough, you may not be able to reach your target audience and achieve your social media goals.

How to Use Multiple Best Times to Post on Threads?

Once you have identified the best times to post on Threads, you can use a scheduling tool to automate your posting. This can save you a lot of time and help you to stay consistent with your posting schedule.

Many people have busy lives, and finding the time to post on Threads regularly can be difficult. Scheduling your posts in advance can help you to overcome this challenge.

Hopper HQ allows you to schedule posts for multiple social media platforms, including Threads. It also has several features that make it ideal for scheduling Threads posts, such as the ability to schedule posts multiple times and the ability to preview your posts before they are published.

How to Find The Best Time to Post on Threads?

There are two main ways in which you can figure out the best time to point on Threads. You can either use the Instagram app or the other option is to use a social media tool like Hopper HQ: 

1) Using the Instagram app:

As Threads is connected to your Instagram account, you can use your data to grasp a general idea of when is best to post. Instagram provides you with basic data on the best time to post all you need to do is follow these steps:

  1. Open the app and head to your Instagram profile
  2. Click on the hamburger icon and select insights 
  3. Select on the option “Total Followers” and scroll down 
  4. On the bottom of the screen, you should see a graph similar to the one below. 
Active time on Instagram

Even though Instagram shares a basic graph of the best times to post, it doesn’t provide in-depth detail. Like for example, you won’t know how many users are active during each time frame.

2) Using Hopper HQ:

Hopper HQ works out the best time to post on Instagram for you and your audience based on follower activity and post engagement. As there is no current Threads analytics, this is your best option to understand when to post on Instagram Threads.

Once you connect your Business Instagram account to Hopper HQ, it analyzes your follower activity to tell you which followers are active at each hour of each day 

Here’s how it works:

  1. Create a Hopper HQ account and connect your Instagram and Facebook profile 
  2. When everything is set up, head to your Instagram analytics
  3. Click on the “Best Time to Post” tab and you’ll be shown a similar table to the one below. 
Hopper HQ best time to post

As you may notice in the table above, Hopper HQ provides a more detailed view of your best times to post on Instagram. You can use the toggle underneath to see when your least or most amount of followers are online. 

Although Hopper HQ doesn’t provide Threads, you can use Instagram insights to help you better understand what to post and when. Unfortunately, currently, you can not access Threads analytics as it’s connected to your Instagram account. So, using Hopper HQ can be your best option to better strategize your threads game.

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Hopper HQ is a visual planning and scheduling tool for Instagram, bringing the creativity back to social media management and freeing up time to focus on the areas of marketing you love most  💙 Try it free today with our 14 day trial.

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How to Post on Instagram from PC (Windows and Mac) 2024 https://www.hopperhq.com/blog/how-to-post-to-instagram-from-pc-mac/ Tue, 24 Oct 2023 17:54:01 +0000 https://www.hopperhq.com/?p=17266 This guide on how to post on Instagram from a PC gives you quick and easy steps to post your content straight from your desktop or laptop. When Instagram first launched in 2010, it only allowed users to post photos from their mobile devices through the Instagram app. Since then, Instagram users and mainly brands […]

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This guide on how to post on Instagram from a PC gives you quick and easy steps to post your content straight from your desktop or laptop.

When Instagram first launched in 2010, it only allowed users to post photos from their mobile devices through the Instagram app. Since then, Instagram users and mainly brands have been searching for options to post on Instagram from PC.

If you’re wondering “How do you post on Instagram from a desktop?”, we’ll cover different options to post on Instagram from your computer in this article.

How to post on Instagram from PC

With Instagram’s latest update, everyone can post from PC whether with Mac or Windows; therefore, allowing to upload Instagram posts from the web version of Instagram (Not the mobile app).

If you’re looking for a centralized solution to posting on several social media channels from your PC, consider giving Hopper HQ a try for free!

1) Visit the Instagram website and log in

Head to www.instagram.com and login to your account. If you haven’t created one yet, follow the sign-up instructions instead.

2) Once inside, click the + icon in the upper-right corner

Here, you can edit the photos, and add your caption, for instance. In addition to changing location, Alt text, and advanced settings.

3) Select the content from your computer

You’ll have to select the content you wish to post from your computer. So, ensure that you’ve transferred any visuals if necessary or that they are reachable through the internet.

4) Edit the post and add any necessary details

You will first be asked if you’d like to crop the image or make the post a carousel. Then you can add filters or make adjustments to make your post extra appealing.

5) Add Captions and locations to your post

Lastly, make sure you added a captivating caption to engage your audience and if relevant, you can also tag the post geographically. You can use this Instagram caption generator to quickly create ideas for your posts.

6) Click Share and publish your post

Now, that everything is set, you can hit “share” which will make your post public to everyone! Make sure to check how your post looks on your grid.

How to share videos on Instagram from Your PC

To post a video on Instagram, you’ll follow a process similar to publishing a regular post. The main distinction is that you’ll be uploading a video, such as a Reel, instead of a static image.

1) Visit the Instagram Website and Log In

Start by going to www.instagram.com and logging in to your Instagram account. If you haven’t registered for an account yet, you can follow the sign-up instructions provided.

2) Access the Upload Feature

Once you’re logged in, locate and click the “+” icon situated in the upper-right corner of the page. This is where you can create and customize your post.

3) Choose Your Video Content

Select the video you wish to share from your computer. If you initially captured the video on your mobile device, ensure it’s accessible on your computer, either through transfer or cloud storage.

4) Optionally Crop the Video

You might be prompted to crop your video or decide whether you want to include additional videos to create a gallery of content.

5) Add a Cover Photo and Trim the Video

Before finalizing your post, consider adding an attention-grabbing cover photo to engage your audience. Additionally, if necessary, you can trim your video to enhance its appeal or make it more concise.

6) Share and Publish Your Post

Once you’ve completed all the necessary edits and customizations, click the “Share” button. This action will make your video post accessible to the public on your Instagram profile. Don’t forget to review how your video post appears on your profile to ensure it meets your expectations.

By following these steps, you can easily share videos on Instagram from your PC. Please bear in mind that Instagram’s features and user interface may evolve, so it’s always a good idea to refer to the official Instagram website or resources for any updates or changes to the posting process.

How to post reels on Instagram from PC

To post a Reel, you need to follow the same steps as publishing a normal post. The only difference is that you’re uploading a video rather than a visual. 

1) Visit the Instagram website and log in

Head to www.instagram.com and login to your account. If you haven’t created one yet, follow the sign-up instructions instead.

2) Once inside, click the + icon in the upper-right corner

Here, you can edit the photos, and add your caption, for instance. In addition to changing location, Alt text, and advanced settings.

3) Select the content from your computer

Select the video you wish to post from your computer. If you used your phone to capture the video, make sure you’ve transferred it to your computer or it’s easily accessible through the web. 

4) Crop the video if necessary

You will first be asked if you’d like to crop your video and if you’d like to add more videos to create a gallery. 

5) Add a cover photo and trim video

Lastly, make sure you add a captivating cover photo to engage your audience and if relevant, you can also trim your video to make it extra special. 

6) Click Share and publish your post

Now, that everything is set, you can hit “share” which will make your Reel public to everyone! Make sure to check what your Reel looks like on your profile. 

How to post stories on Instagram on PC

While you could view Stories on the web version, creating and posting Stories directly from Instagram’s web interface was not a built-in feature. To upload Instagram Stories from your computer is a bit more complicated.  You’ll need to use a Google Chrome web extension.

But for this guide, we recommend using the Hopper HQ app, where you can seamlessly, create, schedule, and track all Instagram content types. It also comes with a mobile app to help encourage this spontaneous capturing and sharing of moments that Instagram thrives for.

  1. Create an account on Hopper Hq
  2. Add your Instagram and Facebook account
  3. Click on Create and upload your story
  4. Add caption and hashtags
  5. Post story or schedule for later

How to Post on Instagram from PC with Hopper HQ

Whether you’re on a Mac or Windows PC, you can schedule and post on Instagram with ease using the Hopper HQ desktop app.

Hopper HQ provides a seamless Instagram for Mac and Windows experience, allowing you to visually plan and schedule your social media campaigns automatically with tailored insights, all from your computer. Scheduling your posts saves you precious time that you can use to focus on other important aspects of your growth.

Using an Instagram scheduler lets you:

  • Prepare content as a team
  • Schedule and autopost from your desktop
  • Improve content quality
  • Plan your social media calendar
  • Leverage an Instagram Grid Planner
  • Bulk Upload Instagram posts
  • Track and Analyse your analytics
  • Use the mobile app on the go

What’s even more exciting about using Hopper HQ is that you can publish your Instagram content across all your channels in just a few clicks. Which makes keeping a presence on social media even easier!

In case you experience a moment worth capturing, you can use the Hopper HQ Mobile app to post on the go!

1) Create an account at HopperHQ.com

After logging in to your new account, you are greeted with a visual dashboard.

Hopper HQ Dashboard that you will see once you log in at Hopper HQ from your PC.
The Hopper HQ Dashboard you will see once you log in to Hopper HQ from your PC.

2) Upload your photos or videos

In the top-left corner, click “create” and you are taken to a window where you can upload 50 photos or video posts at once directly from your desktop browser in one swoop.

3) Edit your Images

Add frames, text, stickers, and more to get your images looking their best from your desktop with Hopper HQ.

If your images or videos are not in the correct Instagram size dimensions, you’ll get an alert letting you know. You may also want to use Hopper HQ’s AI dimensions adjuster.

Add frames, text, stickers, and more to get your picture to look great from the Instagram App, using Hopper HQ from your Desktop.

4) Add Captions and other details

Once you’ve made your edits, you can write captions (including emojis) for all uploads, add hashtags using the hashtag explorer feature (where you can even create templates) and you also schedule the first comment.

5) Publish your post for whenever

With Hopper HQ you can schedule your post for whatever time and date you prefer. You can choose to post straight away or select a specific time for it to be automatically posted onto your grid without needing to move a finger.

If you decide you want to publish the same post to another social network then, you can choose to send it to multiple platforms at the same time. This includes Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and even TikTok.

Hopper HQ Dashboard to schedule Instagram posts | How to post on Instagram from your PC
Hopper HQ Dashboard to schedule IG posts

Hopper HQ vs the Instagram Desktop App?

The answer the the question “Which one is better?”, totally depends on what you’re looking for and need. If you’re looking at how to post on Instagram from a PC as a one-time situation, using the Instagram Desktop app will be enough.

However, if you’d like to frequently post on Instagram and vary on the type of content (post story or reel), you may want to consider Hopper HQ.

  • You can only post on Instagram using the Desktop App: With Hopper HQ you can post the same content onto your different channels. Saving you time to focus on analytics and content creation. 
  • With Hopper HQ you can visually plan your post with a Grid Planner. Create a visually appealing Instagram grid by previewing how posts will look before publishing. 
  • On the Instagram desktop app, you can only post one at a time. While, when using Hopper HQ you can bulk publish several posts onto one or various channels. 
  • With  Hopper HQ you can work as a team. Create a team and work together throughout the whole publishing process.
  • With Hopper HQ you can schedule ahead of time. Although on the Instagram desktop, you can as well, with Hopper HQ, you can use the calendar view to plan and schedule far into the future.

What’s the best option to use?

Whether you’re using Windows or Mac, you have plenty of options to post on Instagram from PC. Your method of choice will depend on what you’re looking to achieve; do you just want the ability to post on Instagram from your computer? Or are you looking for a tool that you can use to upload, edit, and schedule multiple posts from a PC? 

In conclusion, based on your goals and individual needs, you’ll be able to decide on the best option for you. 

Do you have a touchscreen Windows 10 computer? Find out how to post to Instagram directly from it!

The post How to Post on Instagram from PC (Windows and Mac) 2024 appeared first on Hopper HQ.

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Best Time To Post On Instagram In 2024 https://www.hopperhq.com/blog/best-time-to-post-on-instagram/ https://www.hopperhq.com/blog/best-time-to-post-on-instagram/#respond Tue, 24 Oct 2023 13:03:13 +0000 https://www.hopperhq.com/?p=1811 In 2024, identifying the best time to post on Instagram for your brand or industry is crucial for maximizing visibility and engagement.  This article aims to guide users through this essential aspect. Perfect timing boosts post visibility, essential for businesses and individuals looking to grow their audience. It also enhances user engagement, fostering a stronger […]

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In 2024, identifying the best time to post on Instagram for your brand or industry is crucial for maximizing visibility and engagement. 

This article aims to guide users through this essential aspect. Perfect timing boosts post visibility, essential for businesses and individuals looking to grow their audience. It also enhances user engagement, fostering a stronger connection between the poster and their active followers. 

Additionally, these insights are invaluable for strategic digital marketing, enabling content creators to optimize their impact and engagement. Stay tuned as we uncover when to post on Instagram in 2024.

The Best time to post on Instagram 

The best time to post on Instagram is 9 to 10 am on Wednesdays.

  • Monday: 12 pm to 2 pm
  • Tuesday: 8 am to 10 am
  • Wednesday: 11 am to 1 pm
  • Thursday: 12 pm to 2 pm
  • Friday: 4 pm to 6 pm
  • Saturday: 10 am to 1 pm
  • Sunday: 5 pm to 7 pm

Best times during the weekday :

  • 7am – 9am (morning commute)
  • 12 pm – 2 pm (lunch hours)
  • 5 pm – 6 pm (end of workday)
  • 9 pm – 11 pm (bedtime scrolling)

Best time on weekends:

  • 9 am to 11 am
  • 2 pm to 5 pm 

The Best day to post on Instagram: Wednesdays

The worst day to post on Instagram: Mondays

Best times to post on Instagram

When is the best time to post on Instagram?

It is not easy to figure out when is the best time to post on Instagram for every day of the week. Many factors need to be taken into consideration, like your target audience, geography, cultural celebrations and more.

But we’ve curated a few data-based suggestions below:

Best time to post on Instagram on Monday:

The best time to post on Instagram on Monday is between 12 pm and 2 pm. It seems like most people on Mondays are motivated and focused on their work. Only being active on social media, which includes Instagram starting during their lunch break. 

Best time to post on Instagram on Tuesday:

On Tuesdays, the best time to post seems to be earlier in the morning when users are commuting to work. After getting over the Monday blues, from 8 am to 10 am individuals spend less time stressed out providing space for some more leisure time. 

Best time to post on Instagram on Wednesday:

Interestingly Wednesday seems to be the day when most users are active, especially later in the morning around 11 am. You may also notice more activity throughout working hours as people start getting tired of their week. 

Best time to post on Instagram on Thursday:

Similar to Mondays, during lunch breaks would be the best time to post on Thursday. Starting from 12pm until about 2pm would be when most of your target audience is active. However, you need to take into consideration industry and age. 

Best time to post on Instagram on Friday:

On Fridays compared to the other weekdays, it might make more sense to post closer to the end of the afternoon. Starting around 4pm until 7pm. Users are more likely to be online as their work week has ended and they cna start unwinding for their weekend. 

Best time to post on Instagram on Saturday:

On Saturdays, it might sound non-intuitive but posting earlier in the morning could be the way to go! Between the window of 10 am to about 1 pm lunchtime, your posts can get higher engagement. As people sleep in or have slower mornings, it is more likely that they’d be on the gram. 

Best time to post on Instagram on Sunday:

The best time to post on Instagram on Sunday would be closer to the evening starting at 5 pm to 7 pm. This is when users are prepping themselves for the coming week and would most likely spend their evenings at home or just relaxing. 

Best time to post Reels on Instagram

We all know that each type of Instagram content serves its purpose. So, we can’t assume that all of them would be successful at the same time. When speaking about Instagram Reels, timing your post can make a substantial difference in maximizing engagement. 

For this reason and backed with data, we believe that the best time to post Instagram Reels is during lunch hours 11 am to 2 pm, and evenings after 6 pm. However, remember that these times can vary depending on your target audience. This is why using an external tool like Hopper HQ can help. 

Analyzing your Instagram Insights can provide a more tailored understanding of when your followers are most engaged. Remember, consistency in posting and quality of content also play a crucial role in the success of your Reels.

Best time to post Stories on Instagram

Instagram Stories is one of the most popular types of content shared on the platform. It allows you to keep your current following up-to-date with what you’re doing or even use them as reminders for events or to promote newly published posts. 

Similar to Instagram Reels, the best time to post Stories is during lunch breaks, between 11 am and 2 pm.  Also, you may want to consider posting on weekends or Fridays as users tend to spend more time active on the app as well as gain a growing curiosity to see what their close network is up to. 

Keep in mind that the impact of Stories varies depending on if your profile is an individual or a brand. Individuals would have more success on weekends compared to a brand. 

How to find when to post on Instagram

There are two primary ways in which you can figure out the best time to point on Instagram. One way is by using the Instagram app and the other option is to use a social media management tool like Hopper HQ: 

1) Using the Instagram app:

Instagram provides you with basic data on the best time to post, however, you’d need to have a business or creator account to see this. 

  1. Open the app and head to your Instagram profile
  2. Click on the hamburger icon and select insights 
  3. Select on the option “Total Followers” and scroll down 
  4. On the bottom of the screen, you should see a graph similar to the one below. 
Active time on Instagram

Unfortunately, even though Instagram has this graph available, it doesn’t provide any more details. Like for example, you won’t know how many users are active during each time frame. You’ll only be told that it’s the best time. 

2) Using Hopper HQ:

Hopper HQ works out the best time to post on Instagram for you and your audience based on follower activity and post engagement.

Once you connect your Business Instagram account to Hopper HQ, it analyzes your follower activity to tell you which followers are active at each hour of each day 

Here’s how it works:

  1. Create a Hopper HQ account and connect your Instagram and Facebook profile 
  2. When everything is set up, head to your Instagram analytics
  3. Click on the “Best Time to Post” tab and you’ll be shown a similar table to the one below. 
Hopper HQ best time to post

In this table, you can easily see a customized schedule for when is the best time to post on your Instagram account. You can then play around with the toggle to see when your least or most amount of followers are online. 

Hopper HQ provides you with other detailed analytics that can also help you better understand what to post and when. The Hopper HQ analytics also looks at your post history; It notes what day of the week and hour each of your posts was published, It then looks at the engagement (total number of likes and comments) for each post in each hour of the day, and divides them by the total number of posts in that hour 

Hopper HQ is a visual planning and scheduling tool for Instagram, bringing the creativity back to social media management and freeing up time to focus on the areas of marketing you love most  💙 Try it free today with our 14-day trial.

Other best times to posts you might want to check out:

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The 8 Best Instagram Editing Apps For Small Brands https://www.hopperhq.com/blog/the-best-instagram-editing-apps-for-small-brands/ Mon, 23 Oct 2023 14:42:54 +0000 https://www.hopperhq.com/?p=17165 When it comes to sharing pictures and videos on Instagram, there are several Instagram editing apps that can help provide the extra push for visually appealing content. For small brands trying to make their mark, having a viral Instagram post is like hitting the jackpot. But let’s face it – Instagram’s built-in filters aren’t enough […]

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When it comes to sharing pictures and videos on Instagram, there are several Instagram editing apps that can help provide the extra push for visually appealing content.

For small brands trying to make their mark, having a viral Instagram post is like hitting the jackpot. But let’s face it – Instagram’s built-in filters aren’t enough if you aim to stand out in the sea of 2.35 billion monthly users.

That’s where the Instagram editing apps come into play. 

But with the sheer number of editing apps available, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Fear not, we at Hopper HQ have your back.

In this guide, we’ll unveil the 8 best Instagram editing apps to help edit your next masterpiece.

Whether you’re an e-commerce store owner, a local eatery, or a boutique fashion brand, we’ve handpicked the best Instagram editing apps. These apps are designed for simplicity and effectiveness, helping you up your Instagram game without needing a degree in graphic design.

So, let’s dive in and discover how these Instagram editing apps can take your small brand’s Instagram presence to the next level.

What Are Instagram Editing Apps?

Think of them as tools to make your photos and videos look better. 

Instagram editing apps are like digital toolboxes. They have features that let you adjust things in your pictures and videos, like brightness, colors, contrasts, and other handy filters. They can blur backgrounds or make your photos look old-school.

These apps are great because they can turn your regular pictures into eye-catching ones. The best part? You don’t need to be a pro to use them. They’re accessible to beginners, so whether you’re good with tech or not, you can use them to make your brand’s pictures and videos look next level.

They help you keep a consistent and professional look on your Instagram, which is important for getting and keeping followers. In a world where people don’t spend much time looking at things, these apps help you grab and keep people’s attention with great-looking pictures.

Why Should You Use An Editing App?

Alright, so now you might be thinking, “Why bother with an Instagram editing app in the first place?”

A lasting impression: Think about your own Instagram habits. When you’re scrolling through your feed, what makes you stop and double-tap? It’s a stunning photo that catches your eye.

And that’s exactly what an editing app can do for your brand.

You can add a splash of color, sharpen the details, and even remove blemishes. Make your images go from “meh” to “wow” in no time.

Find consistency: If there’s one thing that sets successful Instagram accounts apart, it’s a cohesive look and feel. With a consistent editing style, your feed becomes a visual story that keeps your audience scrolling and returning for more.

Save time and effort: Instead of spending hours in front of a computer messing around in Photoshop, you can do it all on your smartphone. Snap a pic, tap a few buttons, and you’re done – your Instagram game just got much stronger.

Top 8 Instagram Editing Apps

1) Snapseed (Android & iOS)

Today, Snapseed is considered one of the best photo editing apps for Instagram. Boasting an impressive array of more than 29 features. Developed by Google, it’s a user-friendly app that delivers professional-grade editing capabilities right to your fingertips.

Snapseed stands out with its array of distinctive fade filters and captivating effects. However, what truly sets it apart is its Photoshop-like arsenal of tools, including ambience adjustments, selective tweaks, and the versatile brush tool – all accessible right on your smartphone, saving you the hassle of transferring photos to and from a desktop.

One potential drawback to keep in mind, though, is that Snapseed’s extensive feature set can be overwhelming for beginners. While it offers a wealth of editing options, the learning curve may be steeper for those who are new to photo editing apps. However, with a bit of practice, you can harness the app’s full potential and elevate your Instagram game.

2) VSCO (Android & iOS)

This option is a fantastic pick for newcomers, primarily due to its straightforward and minimalist interface, making navigating a breeze. What sweetens the deal is that some of the best Instagram editing app features are available completely free, allowing you to gauge your affinity for it before considering a paid subscription.

Moreover, it’s a user-friendly photo editing app boasting approximately 20 complimentary photo presets and essential editing tools.

However, one potential downside is that for those seeking a more extensive toolkit, VSCO offers a paid version of VSCO Membership, priced at $20 per year. With this membership, you can access a treasure trove of over 200 photo presets, advanced editing capabilities, and valuable tips exclusively for members.

While the free version is excellent for basic editing needs, the cost of the subscription might deter some users on a tight budget.

3) Hopper HQ (Browser, iOS & Android)

What sets Hopper HQ apart is its comprehensive suite of features tailored to streamline your Instagram content creation process. It combines the powers of a scheduling tool and an editing app, offering unparalleled convenience. You can craft, edit, and schedule your posts within a user-friendly platform.

With an intuitive interface, it empowers users to effortlessly enhance their visuals with filters, effects, and AI dimension adjustments. Whether you’re aiming for a cohesive aesthetic or just want to make your images pop, Hopper HQ’s editing tools have got you covered.

Hopper HQ grid preview tool
Hopper HQ Grid Preview Tool

And the best part is – you can have your perfectly edited content ready to go and scheduled for optimal posting times – it’s a recipe for Instagram success. Plus, Hopper HQ offers analytics insights to help you fine-tune your strategy.

Although the editing features are not currently present on the Mobile app, you can create and edit your posts through a desktop, while at the same time publish through the mobile app. Your posts will be saved as Drafts.

4) Canva (Browser, Android & iOS)

Canva is one of our top choices because of its versatile library of customizable templates. Canva’s Instagram Stories templates let you effortlessly design attention-grabbing visuals infused with your brand’s unique colors and fonts.

Canva steps up your regular Instagram game by allowing you to enhance your posts with photo editing tools and seamless text, graphics, and design element overlays. Moreover, you can maintain a consistent brand identity by incorporating your fonts and logo into your content, ensuring your posts truly resonate with your followers.

A potential drawback to consider when using the Canva mobile app is that while many of its features are available for free, some premium design elements, templates, and advanced editing tools require a subscription to Canva Pro which is at least $14 a month.

Plus, remember, the AI-powered Magic Eraser, is your go-to for effortlessly cleaning up unwanted objects in your photos.

5) PicsArt (Android & iOS)

PicsArt boasts an impressive arsenal of editing tools surpassing many similar apps’ offerings. Whether you’re diving into photo enhancements, adding artistic touches, or unleashing your inner artist with digital drawing, PicsArt has you covered with a wide spectrum of design options.

PicsArt has an extensive library of adjustable filters, allowing you to transform your images creatively. You can seamlessly export your beautifully edited photos directly to your preferred social media network, ensuring your content reaches your audience quickly.

Some users, however, may find that the free version of the app includes annoying ads and prompts to upgrade to the premium version. These interruptions can be distracting when you’re in the creative flow, and they may hinder the overall user experience. To enjoy an ad-free and fully unlocked version of PicsArt, users need to subscribe to PicsArt Gold, which comes at a monthly cost of 13 dollars.

6) Veed.io (Android & iOS)

Veed.io offers a unique blend of video and photo editing capabilities, making it a must-have video editing app for Instagram content creators looking to stand out on the ever-evolving Instagram scene.

It’s designed with simplicity in mind, making it accessible even to beginners. Whether you’re editing videos or perfecting photos, the layout ensures a smooth and frustration-free editing process.

You can effortlessly add text, music, and filters to your videos, creating eye-catching content tailor-made for Instagram’s visual culture. It also offers features like auto subtitles, clean audio, magic cut, eye correction, AI avatars, text-to-speech, and video background remover.

While it excels in simplifying the process of creating and editing videos for social media and online content, users who require highly sophisticated video editings capabilities, such as advanced color correction, complex visual effects, or detailed timeline editing, may find Veed’s offerings somewhat limited. If you’re a professional video editor with complex project requirements, you may need to complement Veed with additional software to meet your editing needs.

7) FaceTune (Android & iOS)

While some might dismiss it as the “pretty app,” FaceTune is a powerhouse in its own right. Unlike VSCO, which caters to general photo editing, FaceTune focuses on perfecting portraits and selfies.

Photographers frequently turn to FaceTune to finesse their images, whether it’s blurring out colors and tones that don’t align with their Instagram vibe or diving into a range of features.

These features span from subtle enhancements like skin smoothing and color correction to more transformative, full-blown digital makeovers.

Notably, FaceTune works on videos as well. You can apply an effect to a single frame, gauge the outcome, and seamlessly extend it to the entire video.

Facetune can be time-consuming and may require a degree of skill to achieve natural-looking results. Users who are not familiar with the app’s features or digital retouching techniques may spend a significant amount of time editing their photos, and the results may not always turn out as expected.

8) Darkroom (iOS)

Darkroom offers an easy-to-use editing experience for Instagram enthusiasts while supercharging its capabilities with cutting-edge AI algorithms. 

It lets you create a 3D map of your photo, granting you precise control over editing elements such as the primary subject, foreground, background, and everything in between. It’s worth noting that this innovative app received the prestigious 2020 Apple Design Award and stands as one of Instagram’s newer photo editing solutions.

Additionally, Darkroom helps you organize your photo library seamlessly. You can import your images, favorite the ones you adore, and declutter your camera roll by eliminating the rest, all within the app.

While Darkroom isn’t a free tool, it provides access to advanced features typically reserved for premium editing software, all with the price tag of $6.99 per month.

One potential disadvantage of the Darkroom editing app is that it may have limitations in terms of advanced or intricate editing capabilities when used as a standalone app. To unlock its full potential, some users may find it necessary to connect Darkroom to Adobe Photoshop, which requires a subscription or purchase of the Adobe Creative Cloud.

Conclusion

The importance of having the right editing app in your toolkit cannot be overstated. We’ve listed some of the best Instagram editing apps tailored to small brands, unveiling their power to transform ordinary pictures into amazing works of art.

The true beauty of these apps lies in their ability to enhance your pictures and in their potential to save you time and effort. 

It’s no longer just about creating stunning posts; it’s also about crafting a unique identity for your upcoming brand.

As you navigate the world of Instagram, consider these editing apps as your trusted allies in achieving social media success.

Before we wrap up, let’s not forget about Hopper HQ – With scheduling and analytics tools, Hopper HQ empowers you to plan, optimize, and measure the impact of your Instagram marketing efforts. Start scheduling with Hopper HQ now!

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How to Schedule Instagram Stories https://www.hopperhq.com/blog/how-to-schedule-instagram-stories/ Thu, 19 Oct 2023 16:31:00 +0000 https://www.hopperhq.com/?p=17159 Learning how to schedule Instagram Stories can boost your chances of being seen by the millions of daily active users. What’s even more compelling is their appeal to businesses. Approximately 1/3rd of the most-viewed stories come from brands, and 36% of businesses use Instagram Stories for marketing. This reflects the platform’s effectiveness as a marketing […]

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Learning how to schedule Instagram Stories can boost your chances of being seen by the millions of daily active users.

What’s even more compelling is their appeal to businesses. Approximately 1/3rd of the most-viewed stories come from brands, and 36% of businesses use Instagram Stories for marketing. This reflects the platform’s effectiveness as a marketing tool – driving engagement and sales.

These statistics clearly show Instagram Stories’ widespread acceptance and effectiveness, making them a dominant force in social media storytelling.

How to Schedule Instagram Stories with Meta Business Suite

The Meta Business Suite, formerly known as the Creator Studio, is the official tool of the social media giant. This suite, offered by Facebook (which owns Instagram), allows you to plan and schedule your stories in advance. You can even get insights into how your stories are performing.

However, if you are present on other social media channels, you’ll benefit from a social media scheduling tool like Hopper HQ. With it, you’ll be able to schedule the same post on multiple platforms, saving time to focus on other important tasks.

1) Access the Meta Business Suite:

Head to your Facebook account and access your Meta Business Suite by clicking on Pages.

access meta business suite

2) Create an Instagram Story:

You should be able to see the option “Create Story” on the top of your dashboard under your handle. Make sure that you select only your Instagram profile rather than posting to both platforms (only if you want to!)

business suite create story

3) Upload your content:

Now Upload your content and edit it if you need to. You can add up to 10 images and videos.

4) Schedule your story:

Instead of hitting ‘Share Now,’ select the option “Schedule”. You’ll see the option Choose your desired date and time, and your job is done.

Your Instagram story is queued up and ready to go live for the set time.

schedule on business suite

5) Review and confirm:

Double-check everything, and when you’re satisfied, click ‘Schedule.’ Your Story is now in the queue, and you can manage it alongside your regular Instagram posts in the Business Suite.

But remember, this isn’t the scheduling app to use. In the next section, we’ll explore our very own option – Hopper HQ, for those looking to take their scheduling game up a notch.

How to Schedule Instagram Stories with Hopper HQ

If you’re after a more robust Instagram stories scheduler, Hopper HQ is the best app for scheduling Instagram stories. It offers a user-friendly interface and supports Instagram and other social platforms.

With Hopper HQ, you can schedule stories, posts, and even carousel content all in one place.

1) Sign up and connect your account:

Start by signing up for Hopper HQ. You’ll need to connect your Instagram account. Hopper HQ supports multiple accounts, so you can handle them all in one place if you’re managing more than one.

2) Create a new post:

Once you’re inside the Hopper HQ dashboard, click on ‘Create’. You can choose ‘Instagram Story’ as your post type.

3) Craft your story:

Add the images or videos that you’d like to schedule. Then also any other necessary details that you’d like to include.

4) Set your schedule:

Select your desired date and time for your Instagram story to go live. You can even auto-post the same story multiple times on different days or times – perfect for keeping your content in rotation.

post to instagram from pc or mac
Schedule your Instagram content in advance on Hopper HQ.

5) Preview and schedule:

Before hitting the ‘Schedule’ button, take a moment to preview your story. Make sure everything looks just the way you want it.

Once satisfied, click ‘Schedule,’ and your Instagram story is officially in the queue!

Hopper HQ vs Meta Business Suite

FeatureHopper HQMeta Business Suite
Ease of UseUser-friendly interface, great for beginners.Straightforward but less intuitive.
Supported PlatformsInstagram, plus other social media platforms like TikTok, YouTube and LinkedIn.Instagram and Facebook only.
Content TypesInstagram stories, Reels, posts, carousels, and more.Primarily designed for stories and posts.
AnalyticsRobust analytics with insights into engagement.Basic insights on post-performance.
PricingStarts with a 14-day free trial, then paid plans start at $16 a month.Free to use.
Scheduling FlexibilityAdvanced scheduling options, including recurring posts.Limited scheduling options.
CollaborationSupports team collaboration with multiple user access.Limited collaboration features.

Now, let’s break down these differences:

Ease of use: Hopper HQ wins for its straightforward interface and easy content creation. If you’re not tech-savvy, you’ll appreciate its user-friendliness.

Multiple accounts: Hopper HQ supports managing multiple Instagram accounts, making it an excellent choice for social media managers or influencers juggling multiple profiles.

Scheduling options: Hopper HQ offers more flexibility, including recurring posts, giving you more control over your content calendar.

Content management: If you’re managing accounts across different platforms, Hopper HQ’s ability to handle Instagram, Facebook, and more might be a game-changer.

Analytics: Hopper HQ provides in-depth analytics, allowing you to track your story’s performance over time. Meta Business Suite offers basic engagement insights.

Cost: Meta Business Suite is free, which is great for those on a tight budget. Hopper HQ offers paid subscriptions with various pricing tiers, so you can choose a plan that suits your needs.

Ultimately, the choice between Hopper HQ and the Meta Business Suite depends on your specific goals and the level of control you want over your Instagram story scheduling. 

Tips and Tricks for Story Scheduling

1) Know Your Audience

Understanding your audience’s behavior is vital for scheduling your Instagram stories.

Hopper HQ offers in-depth analytics, including engagement metrics, user demographics, and posting performance. By analyzing these insights, you can pinpoint when your audience is most active, ensuring your scheduled stories reach maximum impact.

Furthermore, you can tailor content to match their preferences, increasing engagement and forging a deeper connection.

2) Test With Different Posting Times

Testing different posting times is crucial for optimizing your Instagram stories’ impact.

By experimenting with posting times, you can discover when your audience is most active and responsive. Some may engage more during lunch breaks, while others prefer evenings.

Continuous testing enables you to refine your schedule for maximum engagement, increasing the likelihood of your stories being viewed and interacted with.

Hopper HQ’s scheduling capabilities empower you to adapt your strategy based on real data, ultimately boosting the effectiveness of your Instagram story campaigns.

3) Stay Relevant and Timely

Whether it’s a festive greeting, a themed promotion, or holiday-related tips, planning ensures your content is prepared and published precisely when it’s most contextually relevant.

This approach resonates with your audience’s current interests and emotions, fostering a stronger connection. 

By recognizing and embracing holidays, you show your brand’s awareness and adaptability, creating a more engaging and relatable experience for your followers.

4) Bonus Tips

Swipe-up Links: This feature ensures that your call-to-action is seamlessly integrated into your stories, whether it’s promoting a blog post, a product sale, or an event registration.

By strategically placing Swipe-up links, you guide your audience effortlessly toward your desired destination, enhancing user engagement and achieving your marketing objectives efficiently and precisely.

Use Hashtags and Location Tags: Incorporating hashtags and location tags into your Instagram stories is a smart strategy for broader reach and discoverability.

Adding relevant hashtags lets you tap into trending topics and communities interested in those keywords, potentially attracting a wider audience. Additionally, location tags connect you with users exploring or residing in that area, enhancing local engagement.

Hopper HQ allows hashtag research options that recommend popular tags to you. 

Find more ways to grow your Instagram following.

Mastering Instagram Story Scheduling

We’ve uncovered the power of scheduling tools like Hopper HQ and the Meta Business Suite, simplifying the processes. We’ve shared invaluable tips and tricks for optimizing your Instagram story strategy.

By planning, you can free up your time for real-time engagement and stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving social media landscape.

While both tools offer benefits, Hopper HQ stands out for more needy users.

With its user-friendly interface, support for multiple platforms, advanced scheduling options, and in-depth analytics. For those seeking a versatile and efficient Instagram story scheduling solution, Hopper HQ is the top recommendation

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What Is The Right Instagram Story Size? https://www.hopperhq.com/blog/the-right-instagram-story-size-to-use/ Thu, 19 Oct 2023 15:36:43 +0000 https://www.hopperhq.com/?p=17155 The Perfect Instagram Story Size The answer is: 1080px X 1920px. This 9:16 aspect ratio is your golden ratio. But what does that mean in plain English? Imagine your phone screen. It’s usually taller than it is wide, right? Well, that’s the 9:16 ratio we’re talking about. It’s like a portrait, not a landscape. This […]

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On This Page

The Perfect Instagram Story Size

The answer is: 1080px X 1920px.
This 9:16 aspect ratio is your golden ratio.

But what does that mean in plain English?

Imagine your phone screen. It’s usually taller than it is wide, right? Well, that’s the 9:16 ratio we’re talking about. It’s like a portrait, not a landscape. This is crucial because when you upload a Story that’s not the right size, Instagram will try to squeeze it into that 9:16 frame and unnecessarily trim your stories.

Now, you might be thinking, “How do I make my Stories exactly 1080×1920?” There are tons of apps out there that can help you get the job done, like Canva, Adobe Spark, Hopper HQ, or even Instagram’s own built-in editor.

Here are other Instagram story pixel sizes that have a 9:16 aspect ratio:

  • 720 pixels by 1280 pixels 
  • 1440 pixels by 2560 pixels 
  • 2160 pixels by 3840 pixels 

What’s An Instagram Story?

Instagram Stories have become way more than just a passing trend. With over 500 million daily active users, they’ve become a cultural phenomenon.

Stories vanish after 24 hours. But why would you want to share something that disappears so quickly? Well, it’s all about the fleeting moments. Those snapshots of life that aren’t meant to be permanent but are still worth sharing with your followers.

Your morning coffee, a cute dog you saw on your walk, or that sandwich you had for lunch – these are all prime Instagram Story material.

You can even permanently keep them in your highlights.

How to Create an Instagram Story

  1. Open Instagram: First, open up your Instagram app. Tap your profile picture in the upper left corner or swipe right from your feed to access the Story camera.
  2. Choose your media: Once you’re in the Story camera, you can take a photo or record a video by pressing the white circle at the bottom. Or you can swipe up to access your camera roll. Choose a photo or video that you feel like sharing.
  3. Get creative: Instagram offers a bunch of creative tools to spice up your Stories. You can add text, stickers, emojis, GIFs, music, and even draw freehand. To access these, just tap the icons at the top.
  4. Adjust your story: You can use the editing options on the left. You can resize, rotate, or even change the text color.
  5. Add to your story: Hit the “Your Story” button in the bottom left corner to share it with your followers. You can also send it directly to specific friends using the “Send To” button.

Your Story is now posted. It’ll disappear after 24 hours, but you can always save it to your highlights if it’s too good to vanish into the digital abyss.

How to schedule an Instagram story

Tired of putting effort into posting your Instagram Stories at the perfect moment? Well, you’re in luck because Hopper HQ can help you schedule your Stories like a pro.

It’s not just for Stories; you can schedule regular posts too as well as cross-schedule to other social media channels. But for now, let’s focus on those Stories.

  1. Create Your Hopper HQ Account: First, head over to the Hopper HQ website and sign up for an account.
  2. Connect Your Instagram Account: Link your Instagram account to Hopper HQ. This step is crucial as it allows Hopper HQ to post on your behalf.
  3. Create and upload your story: Now, hit the “create” button on the top left of your screen and select “Create a story”.
  4. Choose Your Posting Time: Hopper HQ gives you the power to pick when your Stories go live. No more last-minute rushes. You can plan your content days or even weeks in advance. You can see it visualized on the content calendar.

Hopper HQ has an AI resizer that automatically resizes your picture to the perfect Instagram story size.

Then, hit the scheduling button instead of the post button.

  1. Sit Back and Relax: When the scheduled time arrives, Hopper HQ will auto-post it to your Instagram account
post to instagram from pc or mac
Schedule your Instagram content in advance on Hopper HQ.

Best Practices and Tips To Make The Most Out of Stories

1) Instagram Story Polls

Story polls are simple tools that let you pose questions to your audience, offering them two choices with a tap-to-vote option. Use them to gather opinions on anything from fashion choices to menu options.

The trick is to make your audience feel involved. People love sharing their thoughts, and polls give them a platform. Ask them about what restaurant you should visit and see the votes flood in.

2) Reposting User-Generated Content

User-generated content is a treasure trove of authentic, community-driven content your followers create. Reposting these acknowledges your audience’s contributions and deepens the sense of community around your brand.

By reposting, you demonstrate appreciation for your customers or fans, transforming them into brand advocates. This acknowledgement fosters trust and loyalty, showcasing real people enjoying your products or services.

It’s like a virtual word-of-mouth recommendation.

Encourage user-generated content by creating a unique hashtag for your brand or running contests that inspire your audience to share their experiences.

3) Analyzing Data With Hopper HQ

Hopper HQ offers comprehensive analytics that provides deep insights into your Instagram performance.

With Hopper HQ, you can track essential metrics such as engagement rates, follower growth, and story performance over time. It lets you dive into the details, revealing which stories resonate the most with your audience and when they are most active.

Hopper HQ takes it a step further by providing audience demographics, helping you understand who your followers are, and helping you tailor your content accordingly.

Its intuitive data visualization tools make it easy to digest and act on these insights.

4) Sneak Peeks

Think of them as little glimpses into the exciting things brewing in your world.

It could be a sneak peek of a new product you’re launching, a snippet of a forthcoming video, or a preview of an upcoming event.

Sneak peeks create anticipation, leaving your followers eager to see more. And guess what? People love being in the know, feeling like they’re part of an exclusive club with insider access.

5) Live Content

During a live session, you can answer questions, respond to comments, and interact with viewers on the spot. It breaks down the barriers of traditional content, creating a sense of immediacy and authenticity.

Live content is perfect for Q&A sessions, product launches, behind-the-scenes glimpses, or sharing breaking news.

Moreover, live content invites your audience to participate actively in the experience, fostering a stronger sense of community and connection. The unscripted nature can also make you more relatable, showing your human side.

However, it’s essential to plan your live sessions, promote them beforehand, and have a clear purpose to ensure a successful and engaging experience for both you and your audience.

6) Avoid Excessive Text

Excessive text in your Instagram Stories can be a real buzzkill. Imagine scrolling through Stories and suddenly being confronted with a block of tiny text that resembles a novel. It’s a surefire way to make your audience quickly swipe away.

Keep your text concise and to the point. If you have a lot to say, break it into smaller, digestible chunks. If you must include text, make it larger, bold, and strategically placed to grab attention.

7) Avoid Too Much Promotion

Imagine sitting down with a friend for coffee. If they spent the entire time talking about themselves and their achievements, you might find the conversation one-sided and tedious.

Think of your Stories as a conversation rather than a sales pitch.

The same principle applies to your Instagram Stories. Constantly bombarding your audience with promotional content can come across as pushy and disengaging.

Instead, strike a balance. Mix in valuable, non-promotional content like memes, behind-the-scenes glimpses, user-generated content, or even a slice of your daily life. This variety keeps your Stories exciting and your audience engaged.

8) Behind-the-Scenes

Show them the messiness behind the perfection and the human side of your brand. Share candid moments, bloopers, or the making of your latest project.

Behind-the-scenes content builds authenticity and trust. It says, “Hey, we’re real people like you, and this is how we do things.”

Perfectly Size Your Stories To Make The Best Use Of Instagram

In a world where digital storytelling reigns supreme, mastering the art of Instagram Stories has become a crucial skill.

We’ve learned that the right Instagram Story size, at 1080×1920 pixels, can transform your content from mediocre to mesmerizing. 

Whether you’re a budding influencer, a business owner, or someone looking to connect with friends and followers, these insights are your ticket to success in the Instagram universe.

You may also consider using a tool like Hopper HQ, which has built-in features that resize your video content to the correct dimensions. Why not give our 14-day free trial a try?

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The 2023 Instagram Rich List — Who Earns The Most From Sponsored Instagram Posts? https://www.hopperhq.com/blog/2023-instagram-rich-list/ Tue, 08 Aug 2023 10:28:28 +0000 https://www.hopperhq.com/?p=16455 The 2023 Instagram Rich List is here for the SEVENTH edition bring Cristiano Ronaldo to the top of the 2023 Instagram Rich List! Instagram continues to be the most dominant social media channel for partnerships and collaborations with influencers. However, the million-dollar question (quite literally) is,  who’s the highest-paid celeb of 2023?   The sports niche […]

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The 2023 Instagram Rich List is here for the SEVENTH edition bring Cristiano Ronaldo to the top of the 2023 Instagram Rich List!

Instagram continues to be the most dominant social media channel for partnerships and collaborations with influencers. However, the million-dollar question (quite literally) is,  who’s the highest-paid celeb of 2023?  

The sports niche continues to dominate the top 3, with Christiano Ronaldo in 1st and Lionel Messi right behind in 2nd place, a step closer to where he was last year (3rd place right after Kylie Jenner).

Speaking of the Kardashians, although still in the top 10, Kylie has dropped from being the runner upper to 4th place. Kim this year is in 8th compared to her 6th place position last year, while Khloe lowered one position to 10th place. Unfortunately, Kendall didn’t make it to the top 10 list, leaving her in 12th place. 

Based on Hopper HQ internal data, agency rates and public information, you can now find out just how much your favourite celebrities are earning for their sponsored posts.

With other public figures like Mr. Beast and Jake Paul on the rise, we’ve also curated the highest-earning YouTubers for 2023, go check it out! 

Plan & Schedule Your Social Media Posts

Visually plan your posts. Drag & drop everywhere in seconds ✨

So, just as we did in 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021, 2022, Hopper HQ presents:

💰 The 2023 Instagram Rich List 💰

🤑 2023 Top 10 Highest-Earning Instagram Stars 🤑

1. Cristiano Ronaldo

👥 596 million followers
💵 $3,233,923 per post

Cristiano Ronaldo continues to sit at the top of the list with the highest-ever potential earning, making an average of $ 3.2 million per post compared to $2,3 million per post last year. Also, the football Idol is on the verge of reaching 600 million followers, which should happen any minute now! 

2. Lionel Messi

👥 479 million followers
💵 $2,596,834 per post

It’s no surprise that Lionel Messi places himself right behind his competitor Ronaldo. The rivals have made a significant amount of noise with their collaboration in the popular Luis Vitton campaign, which could have boosted Messis’ position to 2nd place.

3. Selena Gomez

👥 426 million followers
💵 $2,557,825 per post

Selena Gomez has come a long way this year, with rumours of being bullied by “mean girl” Haley Bieber.  In the past year Selena has risen to 3rd place for best-paid Instagram star, but what’s more astonishing, is her increase of over 100m followers.

4. Kylie Jenner

👥 397 million followers
💵 $2,385,757 per post

 

Kylie Jenner, who used to be the runner-up, has fallen to 4th place in the 2023 Instagram Rich List. With the birth of her second child, she has moved away from the spotlight to focus on building her family. 

5. Dwayne Johnson

👥 387 million  followers

💵 $2,325,862 per post

Dwayne Johnson or commonly known as “The Rock” has kept his place as 5th on the Rich List, the exact same position as in 2022.  However, with a 5 million increase in followers.  

Simple Post, Story + Reel Scheduling ✨

Visually plan your social content. Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn + Pinterest

6. Ariana Grande

👥 377 million followers
💵 $2,263,171 per post

Ariana Grande has been mentioned all over social media due to her recent split from her husband Dalton Gomez and rumoured relationship with Wicked co-star Ethan Slater. Pushing her up to 6th place, one step higher than where she was last year.   

7. Kim Kardashian 

👥 362 million followers
💵 $2,175,235 per post

 

After having been in 6th place in our 2022 Instagram rich list, the Skims owner has dropped down to 9th this year. She has gotten quite a bit of backlash when it comes to her feud with her sister Kourtney, which could have impacted her popularity.

8. Beyonce

👥 314 million followers
💵 $1,888,884 per post

Beyonce however, has kept her eighth place for the third year in a row! The queen B continues to keep her place in the top 10 richest Instagram celebrities. 

9. Khloe Kardashian

👥 310 million followers
💵 $1,865,236 per post

Khloe Kardashian jumps to 9th place, shown to be a favourite amongst the Kardashian fans. Making her the 3rd best-paid Kardashian/Jenner after Kylie and Kim. Having had a tough time with her relationship with Tristian Thompson and the birth of her second child, she has won her fans’ hearts. 

10. Justin Bieber

👥 237 million followers
💵 $1,762,436 per post

Justin Bieber has reached the top 10 best-paid Instagram celebrities after not having made it in 2022.  Being stuck in the middle of what people calling a “love triangle” with Hailey Bieber and Selina Gomez, his popularity has grown. 

Check out the full 2023 Instagram Rich List here – featuring the highest-earning social media stars.

You might also like:
The 2023 YouTube Rich List
– The 2023 Virtual Influencer Rich List

Want to be considered for next year’s list?

We’re now taking applications for influencers looking to be considered for the Instagram Rich List 2024 – if you’d like to nominate yourself or your client, complete this form.

TRY HOPPER HQ FREERefreshingly Simple Post, Story + Reel Scheduling

Visually plan all your social channels. Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, Facebook + LinkedIn.

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Instagram For E-Commerce: Driving Sales & Conversions https://www.hopperhq.com/blog/instagram-for-e-commerce-driving-sales-conversions/ Sat, 01 Jul 2023 16:59:37 +0000 https://www.hopperhq.com/?p=19153 You might be wondering how to successfully use Instagram for e-commerce, especially as it’s one of the 3 platforms with the highest ROI in social selling.  With evolving algorithms and fleeting consumer trends, raising online sales today demands more than traditional strategies. But just when you think you’ve hit a wall, Instagram for e-commerce opens […]

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You might be wondering how to successfully use Instagram for e-commerce, especially as it’s one of the 3 platforms with the highest ROI in social selling. 

With evolving algorithms and fleeting consumer trends, raising online sales today demands more than traditional strategies. But just when you think you’ve hit a wall, Instagram for e-commerce opens up new possibilities, your new ticket to secure checkouts.

In this article, we will show you how to turn your Instagram account into a shop that sells with 8 strategies. We will also dive into the best practices you can do to maximize your users’ online shopping experience.

By the end, you’ll be ready to tap into millions of Instagram users and draw them in as eager potential customers.

8 Best Instagram E-Commerce Strategies To Elevate Shoppable Posts

Keep an eye on the “hows” to master Instagram shopping and turn casual app browsers into followers.

1. Use Instagram Stories To Launch Flash Sales

This leverages Instagram stories’ fleeting nature to prompt quick buyer action and tap into the thrill of snagging a great deal.

To apply this tactic, create engaging stories with product photos in action. Then, highlight key product benefits and savings if they buy now. Use shoppable stickers to guide users to tap on your product tags. Here’s how to add the product stickers:

Instagram for e-commerce - Instagram Stories Shoppable Stickers

Additionally, adjust your posting times as needed to improve your flash sales’ success. Use Hopper’s analytics features to analyze when your audience is most active. It features a toggle that lets you see when the most or least of your followers are online. 

This helps you plan when to launch your flash sales to maximize likes, comments, shares, and cart additions. For instance, if you discover through Hopper’s analytics that your audience is most active from 2:00 to 6:00 PM on Wednesdays, schedule your flash sales during these peak times. 

Instagram for e-commerce - Hopper IG Analytics

To further boost your flash sales campaigns, hire an experienced virtual marketing assistant to:

  • Manage real-time responses to customer queries and build rapport with them.
  • Monitor analytics to schedule stories at the best times when most followers are online.
  • Make sure your Instagram business account operates smoothly during high-traffic flash sales.

You can leverage hiring platforms like Genius to get an assistant so they can handle the recruitment process for you. So, this frees up your time for more strategic tasks to grow your e-commerce store while keeping your budget intact.

2. Gamify Instagram Users’ Shopping Experience

Turn product discovery into an interactive game on your Instagram business account. With this strategy, you can make shopping fun and engaging to entice users to buy. It also prompts shopping enthusiasts to explore your Instagram feed more. 

Here is why you should do it:

Instagram for e-commerce - Gamification Impact On Social Media

To gamify their experience, set up a scavenger hunt that guides users through your posts. Let’s say you sell sports equipment like various golf rangefinders. You can create content that incorporates a series of engaging clues within your product images.

For example, post a shoppable photo of a rangefinder against the backdrop of a well-known golf course. In the caption, include the first clue: Where champions play, find the course to unlock your way. 

Ask your followers to DM their guesses; anyone who answers correctly unlocks the next clue. Each subsequent post will reveal another rangefinder with a visual or textual clue in a different setting. Then, gradually build up to a finale where participants can win a prize or exclusive discount.

But make sure to set clear instructions before starting the game. For instance, you can say that they must follow your account and like the photo first before DMing their guesses. You can also announce that the first 15 guessers progress to the next round. From there, only the fastest 10 will continue advancing.

3. Leverage Nano Or Micro-influencers In Niche Markets

Why nano or micro-influencers? They have a strong connection with their followers. Despite their smaller following, their audience is highly engaged. You can use the collaboration to highlight the products in your shoppable posts.

Plus, they are more cost-effective, especially for smaller businesses with limited budgets. Macro to mega influencers can cost between $5,000 and $10,000 per post. In contrast, nano and micro-influencers charge only $10 to $500 per post.

These influencers can authentically showcase your products through stories, reels, and feed posts. With this content, they encourage their loyal followers to purchase from your brand.

A prime example is Transparent Labs. Although they work with macro influencers, they still tap nano and micro-influencers like Kyle Cummings to boost their brand on Instagram. 

Instagram for e-commerce - Transparent Labs Influencer

Kyle is a fitness enthusiast. He shares quality images and detailed captions about the benefits of Transparent Labs’ Whey Protein Isolate. This helps attract new customers who trust his fitness advice. 

Plus, he has a strong 3.96% engagement rate that is well within the optimal 1% to 5% range. With such active and loyal followers, Kyle is a good asset to make the brand’s Instagram e-commerce strategy more effective.

Instagram for e-commerce - HypeAuditor Engagement Rate

How do you do the same?

Use tools like Upfluence to find influencers who align with your brand’s values and audience. You just have to input keywords about your industry and adjust the filters to refine your search. You can also use it to contact potential influencers with your proposal. 

Find The Right Influencers to Explode your Business with Upfluence

Once you partner with an influencer, collaborate on exciting content. For instance, have them share photos using your products in daily life. Each image can become a shoppable post that links directly to the product detail page.

4. Promote Bundle Offers Through Shoppable Posts

Did you know that 70% of shopping enthusiasts turn to Instagram to discover products?

Bundles offer an attractive way to capitalize on this trend since grouping complementary items at discounted rates lets them explore more pieces in 1 post and 1 tap. Plus, it inflates the perceived value and encourages quicker purchasing decisions.  It also increases your average order value.

All you have to do is curate bundles that include complementary products and showcase them through shopping posts. For instance, let’s say your e-commerce business focuses on skincare. 

You can introduce a “Summer Glow” bundle that includes new product launches with older items. So combine a newly launched aloe gel with established favorites like sunscreen and hydrating mist. 

Use engaging visuals and add descriptions to explain each product’s benefit in the bundle. You should also highlight the savings and convenience of buying them all together. 

To further boost your bundles, you can leverage Instagram ads to broaden your offer’s reach. But say that the bundles are available for a limited time only to make them feel a sense of urgency. 

If you want to maximize your ads, consider hiring a digital marketing agency to handle your social media marketing. With this, you can be sure that your ads are well-managed and that they bring you results. Also, digital marketers can expertly make the most out of your budget.

5. Do User-Generated Content (UGC) Contests

UGC contests work for Instagram e-commerce because they provide authentic social proof that can influence others. When users see real people enjoying a product, their trust increases, making them more likely to buy.

This also enriches your e-commerce brand with diverse customer perspectives and experiences to help broaden its appeal. Plus, every participant’s post acts as free advertising that can improve word-of-mouth.

How do you apply this?

Decide on a compelling incentive, like free shipping or a discount. Then, announce the contest on your IG business profile. But specify that they should tag you and include a unique, branded hashtag to track entries. Offer clear guidelines so entries stay relevant and high-quality.

For instance, let’s say you are selling renewable energy products like these solar generator kits. Launch a contest inviting customers to show how these solar kits power their outdoor or indoor appliances. You can also ask them to share how they set up their solar kits. 

Check out this UGC post from Shop Solar for ideas on what to encourage your customers to share:

Instagram for e-commerce - Shop Solar UGC

In the post, instead of having just 1 photo to show the end result, images show a holistic view so others can see what materials they used to set up the kit, like a wood plank. Meanwhile, the testimonial is not your typical “It’s great!” 

The customer mentioned how he assembled the panel from spare parts in his house. With this, you can give valuable insight into how your products can be used. For instance, this gives interested buyers the idea that they can use old materials instead of buying a new elevated platform to set up their kits. 

Also, tell them to use hashtags like “#Poweringthefuture” or “#[brand name]GreenLiving” when they submit their posts. Otherwise, they will not be included.

Then, pick the entries that best show how versatile and effective your products are and post the winning entries on your account. But be sure to add product tags to your chosen content to transform them into shoppable posts.

6. Post Lifestyle Integration Shots

Showcase your products as part of everyday life or put them in aspirational settings to tap into the platform’s visual nature. Since it is known for its aesthetic content, 27% of social media users look to platforms like Instagram for inspiration.

Additionally, it gives a practical context to what you’re selling, helping shoppers visualize themselves using your products. With that, they are more likely to tap into the Instagram app’s shopping features.

Here’s a great example of lifestyle shots from Tala, an activewear brand:

Instagram for e-commerce - IG Lifestyle Shots From Tala Brand

To do this, simply leverage what you already know about your target audience and their interest. Then, refine that knowledge with Instagram’s built-in analytics.

These tools show what content grabs your audience’s attention the most. Use this insight to craft shots and create similar aesthetics that draw users in. So, if you are selling wellness products and find that your audience prefers food-related posts over workout ones, take more photos that involve the former.

In addition, use relevant hashtags to broaden your reach and guarantee that your posts are discoverable. You should also consistently engage with your audience and ask them to share how they might use your products in their lifestyle.

7. Create An Exclusive ‘Instagram Only’ Line

Offer products that are only available through your Instagram account to boost engagement and create a sense of exclusivity and urgency. Tap into the audience’s desire for unique items.

To do this, pick products that align with your brand and appeal to your target audience. For instance, let’s say you sell sports and fitness gear. 

You can create an Instagram-exclusive product line for different seasons, say summer. Add specific summer-specific products like tanning oil, trendy swimwear for athletes, and sunscreen. 

These complement your usual offers in your online store. Plus, it can offset slower summer sales of regular fitness gear, as many switch from workouts to other activities. It also keeps you relevant to your established market. 

Next, set up a dedicated section in your product catalog specifically for these items. Promote these exclusives heavily through your regular posts, Stories, and Reels. You should also highlight the ‘Instagram Only’ nature to encourage people to follow and check your account often.

As seasonal campaigns ramp up orders, consider accepting internship applications. This flexible support ensures you are not stretched thin. With an extra pair of hands, you can minimize mistakes and delays, as well as keep up with customer queries. 

Also, this is beneficial if you have a small business since you won’t have to commit long-term yet still have someone to help manage the increased workload for the season.

8. Produce Behind-the-Scenes Product Journeys

Share your product’s creation process, from initial idea to final sale. This strategy gives your audience a clear view of how you make your products. This helps create trust and deeper connections with your followers. 

In addition, showing the meticulous care, quality materials, and innovative techniques used can set your brand apart from other e-commerce businesses. It humanizes your brand and adds a story to each product that resonates with customers. This authenticity lets you build a loyal audience and improves your ability to sell products effectively.

How do you produce BTS content?

Document your product development’s various stages. If possible, include staff commentary to explain more about the process or the inspiration behind the products. Then, share your content as shoppable videos or IG stories. You should also post the design process, material sourcing, and production photos.

For example, if you sell handcrafted jewelry, post an IG reel or IGTV series showcasing the crafting process from sketching designs to the final polishing. 

Also, write captions to explain each step’s significance. If this is a challenge for you, take advantage of our AI-powered caption generator to have engaging, creative social media copy. 

Hopper HQ Caption Generator

Now, you’ve got the strategies to supercharge your posts and boost e-commerce sales. But to make them work to the fullest, you need to implement best practices for IG posts to make users tap and engage seamlessly.

Instagram For E-Commerce: 5 Must-Do Practices To Maximize Your Shoppable Posts

Maximize your use of Instagram’s shopping features with these 5 best practices. But take note of the quick and easy tactics to implement these.

A. Regularly Check Inventory

Customers expect quick and reliable access to products they see on Instagram. So, make sure all shoppable links in your posts lead to in-stock items so customers do not get frustrated.

To get this practice in action, consistently monitor your overall inventory to keep your product availability current. If you have a Shopify account, use its built-in inventory tracking feature. 

But if you are using another e-commerce platform, leverage software like inFlow Inventory to get real-time insights into product movements. Use the data to either update your customers about availability or replenish your stocks.

B. Tag Multiple Products

Tagging multiple products maximizes exposure because shoppers can view and shop for several items without leaving the post. This can increase product mentions, encourage browsing, and drive sales from a single post.

For example, you post a lifestyle shot of a living room. You can tag the sofa, coffee table, and lamp. This lets users envision the complete set and purchase multiple items that complement each other.

How do you do this?

Arrange products to create visually appealing groupings that naturally complement each other. With this, your Instagram content becomes cohesive and aesthetically pleasing. Then, tag products directly in the photos, like this post from Wayfair:

 Tagging Multiple Products

But make sure each tag is accurately placed over the correct item in the image so customers can be redirected to their respective product pages.

C. Enable Instagram Checkout

Instagram checkout is a shopping feature that lets customers buy products without navigating to a separate website for a better overall shopping experience. Additionally, simplifying the checkout process helps you reduce online shopping barriers, like cart abandonment.

To enable this feature, have a Facebook business account because this feature will only work if it is activated on FB and IG. Here’s how to set it up:

  • Go to the Commerce Manager on FB and select your shop.
  • From the left-hand menu, choose ‘Settings’, then ‘Checkout method‘.
  • Click the gear icon next to your current method, select ‘Checkout on Facebook and Instagram’ from the dropdown, and then click ‘Change’.
  • Follow the prompts to provide details about your business, like shipping and payout preferences, and confirm your changes.
Instagram for e-commerce - Instagram Checkout

With this feature, you keep the entire purchasing process within the Instagram app. However, as of now, only approved US businesses can apply this.

D. Educate Your Audience About Instagram Shop

Post content that explains how to use Instagram’s shopping features. Highlight how quickly they can discover and buy products and services. 

Knowledgeable customers are more likely to engage confidently with Instagram shops since they know what to click and do next. Plus, it streamlines their shopping experience since they do not have to go to your website and browse all over again to find the item they want.

To implement this, regularly share advice and tutorials on how to navigate your IG shop. Use Instagram Stories or posts to demonstrate how to access features. 

For example, post a reel or IGTV on your Instagram profile showcasing what happens next when they click the shopping tags in Instagram photos. Walk users through finding product details and purchasing directly from a post.

E. Maintain An Organized Instagram Shop

Categorize your products to help users easily navigate your Instagram account and locate their desired items. This makes shopping on Instagram more convenient. It also encourages:

  • Longer browsing sessions.
  • Increases the likelihood of purchases.
  • Helps customers find exactly what they’re looking for with minimal effort.

To organize your shop, group your similar products into clear categories. Then, use descriptive titles for each category to guide users. Regularly update your collections to reflect inventory changes and seasonal offers.

For example, if you are selling athletic wear, you could organize your shop or IG highlights into categories like:

  • Men’s Sportswear
  • Women’s Yoga Gear
  • Running Accessories

With this, your users can follow your latest collections while not having to browse through your thousands of posts.

Conclusion

Instagram for e-commerce is changing the digital shopping game, use these strategies to build a strong foundation and sustain your followers’ interest in this dynamic social network. 

But as you adopt these strategies, continue to assess and refine your approach to make sure it continues to meet your evolving goals. So, review your current Instagram setup, apply the improvements discussed, and monitor their impact to keep your selling tactics sharp.

To help you achieve your targets, use Hopper HQ. Our platform is a one-stop shop to make your mark on digital shopping. It lets you fully automate posting, generate captions, upscale images, get hashtag suggestions, and many more. Start your free trial now and boost your Instagram brand.

Burkhard Berger

Burkhard Berger is the founder of Novum™. He helps innovative B2B companies implement modern SEO strategies to scale their organic traffic to 1,000,000+ visitors per month. Curious about what your true traffic potential is?

The post Instagram For E-Commerce: Driving Sales & Conversions appeared first on Hopper HQ.

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