My Tips for Bookstagram

I've been doing bookstagram for about a year now and enjoy it a lot. I'm always trying to think of new ideas to try and playing around with things. I've learned a lot, and while there's still plenty to learn, I'm willing to share what I have learned with you. (Wow, I used the word "learn" way too many times in that sentence.)

Use Hashtags

Hashtags are one of the most important parts of Instagram. It's how people find your posts, and then maybe your profile, and then maybe follow you. (Although that's pretty rare. For me at least.) There are lots of popular hashtags, like #bookstagram and #bookphotography, and you should use them. But also use more niche-oriented hashtags, relating to your post and whatnot. And try using around ten. For some reason, that works best.

Like, comment, engage

Like any social media platform, it's an exchange, not a one way broadcast. You need to be out there, liking other's posts, commenting on them, and replying to comments on your own posts. Take time to find others to follow and browse Instagram, liking and commenting. It will help growth, I'm pretty sure. 76% at least.

Find your style

The best bookstagramers have a distinct style to their posts. You know as soon as you look at it who it was taken by. I'll be the first to admit, I haven't quite found mine yet, but I'm working on it. Play around. Don't be afraid to mimic others until you figure out what your style looks like. Then be consistent with it.

Experiment

Even if you already have a consistent style, don't be afraid to try something new. Play around with a new layout or color scheme. Go outside with your pictures or try making a shape. You might discover a new picture type that you really like and are good at doing.

Be you

While the focus of Instagram might be the photos, the captions are just as important. That's where you can really show your personality. Think about Paper Fury, for example. When you read one of her posts, you expect to see some humorous, sarcastic caption. Let your personality shine through in what you write.

Ask questions

When you asks questions in your posts, then you're much more likely to get comments. Find something related to what your post is about and ask a question about it. It's just like on a blog post. And don't forget to answer other's questions too.

Use natural light

Natural light is your friend when taking book pictures. Any pictures, really, but these too. Take your pictures in the best lit room of your house. Cloudy days are the best because it diffuses the light and makes for great pictures. And try for the morning. Afternoon light is too harsh.

Have a backlog

Another great tip is to have a backlog of pictures ready for days you might now feel like, or are able to, take pictures. Whenever you're getting out your camera and such for pictures, take some extras to have in case of emergency. These are also great for vacation and other times when you don't want to take pictures but do want to post.

Do you have a bookstagram account? What are your tips? Tell me in the comments.

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