Monthly Archives: August 2012

Instagram: Photographer’s friend or foe?

Instagram is a smart phone based app and social media network. Now, if you’re a photographer you probably already know this, if you don’t, then perhaps you should consider getting one. Eh?! I personally enjoy using Instagram, not only do I get to show some of my work and behind-the-scenes action, but I also get to see bts from other photographers whose work I admire. I’ve even gotten inspired by looking through my old posts.

The weekend hashtag projects are a genius concept, a great way to include users all while building content for the Instagram blog. Here’s the down-low on the Weekend Hashtag Project:

“Weekend Hashtag Project is a series featuring designated themes & hashtags chosen by Instagram’s Community Team. For a chance to be featured on the Instagram blog, follow @instagram and look for a photo announcing the weekend’s project every Friday.”  

I always try to check it out even though I don’t usually participate.

Why photographers should use Instagram:

1.) Accept it for what it is; stop hating on it because it’s “hip.” It is a great social media tool.

2.) Visual variety: typically, an Instagram featuring a variety of subjects is better than just one. Come on, even I take a break from photographing cats! (Though you can add a #catsofinstagram hashtag, if you do post a pic of your furry pal.)

3.) Surprisingly, it can be a great way to get recognized by fellow photographers. Instagrammers have the opportunity to build a larger photo community. It feels good to hear that people know your work from somewhere, even if it is just Instagram. :)

Some photo’s from my Instagram:

Here is a link to a great story with legal info on the instagram/photographer debate: http://www.wired.com/rawfile/2012/05/why-instagram-is-terrible-for-photographers-and-why-you-should-use-it/

As you can tell, i’m all for the use of this app, I may as well take advantage of something that is so popular. What do YOU think about Instagram?

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