When it comes to social media there are a lot of options to use. Most people use more than one social media outlet. If you are like me you have a Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snap Chat, etc. Coming from someone who isn’t ashamed for loving social media I think that Instagram has the most to offer.You know what they say, “A picture is worth a thousand words,” so there is something special about being able to share photos that you capture with others. Here are a few tips on getting the most out of Instagram.

Be Creative and Be Yourself!

It’s easy to get caught up in looking at other people’s photos and trying to do what they are doing, but remember that Instagram is all about self expression. If you are an outdoors person and often finds yourself in a lake or on a hike capture the moment and post that. If you are a Pinterest addict and enjoy attempting to make crafty creations post a before and after photo. Whatever you do just embrace who you are and post that. People are attracted to what makes you you so embrace who you are and post it!

Filter that Photo!

Instagram is great for posting photos but when it comes to filters you can do better! A filter can turn a photo into a piece of art. The thing about filters is that they can turn anyone into a great photographer so don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone because you might just surprise yourself in your filtering abilities. Here are some great apps that will allow you to do so much more with filters and alterations to your photos.

Squareready – Is the Instagram square format forcing you to cut off part of your photo? This app will turn any photo into a square with white space on the top or sides depending on the orientation, so you never need toworry about losing part of your photo.
Mextures – If you are a fan of light leaks or textures this app is for you. Great filters with great results.
VRSLY – This app allows you to put text and artwork on your photo. If you are having a hard time coming up with what text to add, VRSLY has some pre-made images and words you can add to your photo.
LINE Camera – This app does so much. It has filters, frames, stickers, you name it! If you are looking for one app that does it all this is the one.

Don’t Forget About that Hashtag!

These days people have strong opinions about hashtags. You either love them or you hate them. Despite your opinion the fact is that on Instagram they are important. A hashtag is how your photo is categorized. For example we have the hashtag #yw2014 for all of our YouthWorks sites this summer so that any of our staff or participants can click on the hashtag and see all the photos that have been posted. (Checkout that hashtag here.) If you want people to see your photo, hashtag the category your photo would fall under. Also pay attention when you are at events because most likely there is an official hashtag already created for you to use.

Happy Instagraming!

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In high school Kryn was a student on many different YouthWorks trips and served as summer staff starting in 2008, when she spent her first summer in Booneville. Kryn has been working in the YouthWorks office since 2011, and currently helps manage YouthWorks’ social media and marketing campaigns. When she isn’t at the office you can usually find her at a coffee shop with a friend or at home with her cat Cupcake.