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What to Post on Instagram: 30 Ideas & Examples

Posted 15 January, 2024

Wondering what to post on Instagram?

This article gives you 30 Instagram post ideas you can use today. Examples below!

Many of you know we built the Post Planner app to be a neverending source of content for Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Twitter, and more.

Well... we also wrote this article so you can quickly grab 30 Instagram post ideas that'll get your followers double-clicking your pics TODAY.

But fair warning: Using these ideas might get you A LOT more followers and more engagement! 🙀😂

This post will teach you:

(Could your Instagram content use more consistency? Schedule your posts on the perfect days and times by first creating a free Post Planner account!)

30 Instagram post ideas & examples

Everyone LOVES Instagram because it helps people tell their stories through pictures and videos.

But did you know the average engagement rate for an Instagram business account with less than 10,000 followers is almost 2%?

what_to_post_on_instagram_1.2

This means engagement potential on Instagram is through the ROOF!

Use these 30 Instagram post ideas to get a piece of that “engagement pie.”

1. Your business’s products in use

IMG-0366-1-1A powerful way to tell your company's story?

Post photos or videos of your product used in the real world.

This helps viewers imagine themselves using your product in action.

The same thing goes for a service. You can show what your company does step-by-step to deliver on what your customers pay for!

When showing your product in use, remember not to overdo it (you want to sprinkle this type of post every now and again).

2. Behind-the-scenes

More & more businesses are sharing photos taken behind the scenes.

These images work great for providing an authentic voice for your brand.

Here are some examples of behind-the-scenes content:

  • A project you're working on (video, eBook, course)
  • A company meeting
  • Your work set-up
  • Things going on before an interview

Here's an example from online business coach Louise Henry:

IMG-0365

If it's a feed post, don't forget to add the best Instagram hashtags for your industry

Behind-the-scenes posts are all about authenticity and are a fantastic way to show a different side of your brand.

3. Selfies

IMG-0367Ok, I know you know this one!

Selfies are all over social media, and for a good reason!

They're simple and can be taken anywhere.

A good selfie is all about the right angle!

We actually have an entire article about how to take fantastic Instagram photos that'll rake in more engagement, check it out!

4. Quotes

Let’s say your creativity gauge is running low, and you need ideas for FUNNY Instagram posts.

Instagram quotes can be just what you need.

You can find quotes all over social media to share.

But try Post Planner's content library if you want to do it fast AND efficiently.

Here, you can find all the best quotes you’d possibly need.

Meaning it's not just funny quotes, there are also deep and inspirational quotes.

Another great thing?

Quotes can help your business page break up monotonous content.

Quotes get some of the strongest engagement on Instagram, so don't forget to have them in your Insta Stories as well!

5. A social cause

Many of us believe in something that's bigger than ourselves.

When it comes to social causes, sharing them with your audience is a fantastic way to show your business is involved with a positive change.

IMG-0368Think of a cause you care about and mention what your company is doing to contribute to its success.

Invite followers to join the cause and educate them on what it's all about!

6. Video

Social media is a fast-paced medium.

Video is treated differently depending on which social media platform you're on.

But Instagram only allows 3-60-second videos.

Let's say your video is 30 seconds.

video

In that timeframe, you need to capture attention, keep attention, and find a way to elicit engagement.

  • “Grabbing attention” is when you have a “scroll stopper” in the first 3-seconds of your video.
  • “Keeping attention” is when you have video cuts, subtitles, and interesting content your average follower will LOVE.
  • “Elicit engagement” is when an Instagram caption asks for engagement or the content has a “wow” factor that invites it.

7. Hyperlapse content

The Instagram Hyperlapse app lets you capture impressive, time-lapse videos with just the push of a button.

IMG-0369Here are some niches that could benefit highly from Hyperlapse content:

  • Outdoors
  • Cooking
  • Photography
  • Art
  • Automotive
  • Technology
  • Travel

And these are just to name a few! Be sure to get creative in YOUR industry.

8. Throwback Thursday or #TBT (only on Thursdays!)

Thursdays are when Instagram users share images from the past.

They could be photos from when your company was just starting out or images from fun company parties of yesteryear.

Don’t forget to use the hashtag #TBT or its variations:

  • #Throwbackthursday
  • #Throwbackthursdays
  • #Throwbackthursdayy

This way, your post shows up on the hashtag page!

9. Funny Photos/Videos & Memes

Some of the BIGGEST influencers and companies use memes to get some laughs out.

IMG-0372Funny pics help lighten the mood & will portray your business as a company with heart (and a sense of humor, of course!)

Let's face it:

When you think of "businesses," you don't always think of "comedy."

So, adding comedy is the PERFECT way to stand out!

Your Instagram account will feel fun & light-hearted when you also sprinkle in a few memes.

Consider creating a meme about your business, product, or industry.

Content Studio for memes

You can use Post Planner's Content Studio to create your own memes!

Be on the lookout for trendy meme images by browsing your Instagram discovery feed.

10. A sneak-peek

Sneak Peak

Releasing a new product or feature soon?

Tease your audience with it!

Let's face it: Movie trailers get us excited, and the anticipation makes us want to TELL our friends.

Your sneak-peek can be a short video or an image that says a little about the new product or feature.

Having a date for when it’ll be released is a great way to gain awareness and even get pre-orders.

11. Do a monthly challenge

Think of doing something different EACH day.

Maybe like a 30-day photography challenge!

For example, if you were a fitness influencer, you could do a 30-day diet challenge where you post your progress and how you're feeling on your Stories.

Here's an example of a monthly challenge, a clean eating one:

IMG-0373

12. Tutorials and how-to's

If you're in business, it means you have expertise in something.

If you know something well, someone else probably doesn't know it as well as you do.

Tutorials are a great way to share value with audience members.

Not to mention, it attracts steady engagement - like people asking questions and tagging their friends.

For example, if you’re a fitness trainer, you could post videos of how to properly do certain exercises.

Remember to break it down step-by-step to keep it simple.

13. Do a trend

Social media is DRIVEN by trends.

Every month...scratch that...EVERY WEEK, something big is trending.

When you leverage trends, it can be the perfect VIRAL hit your Instagram page needs.

Trends can be:

  • Challenges
  • Video ideas
  • News stories
  • Products

Find content in post planner

Finding trending content is super easy with Post Planner's content library. Filter by industry, and browse what everyone is talking about!

14. User-generated content (UGC)

UGC is when you repost content that your followers posted related to your brand.

86% of brands are using UGC in their marketing strategy.

Your customers are some of your BEST advocates.

So using UGC opens the door to impactful posts.

Here's a UGC example from Starbucks:

IMG-0374Be sure to incorporate UGC to help emphasize your product (especially after you've done a product “in action” post).

15. Instagram Reels

Instagram Reels was rolled out in the summer of 2020 to compete with TikTok.

This feature is an even SHORTER way to share videos, lasting from 15 to 90 seconds.

Reels let you:

  • Record short videos
  • Speed up or slow down your clips
  • Add music from Instagram's music library
  • Apply other trendy edits

Why use Reels?

They're an even quicker way for your business to share information while entertaining your audience.

Not to mention, they're also versatile.

Reels are in the "Reels” section of your Instagram page but can also be posted to your Stories AND feed.

Here are other benefits of Instagram Reels:

  • Reels reach a wider audience since users are shown Reels from accounts they don't even follow.
  • They’re very easy to repurpose and share on other platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube Shorts.

16. Transformations

If your business has helped a lot of people, sharing a transformation can inspire people to work with you.

In other words, a transformation shows the RESULTS you can produce.

You might see this a lot with coaches in the fitness niche (or literally any type of coach).

Transformation

Transformations are a form of a case study.

In your caption, write about where your customer was in the beginning and the results they accomplished in the end. Also, mention what YOU did to get them there!

17. Fascinating statistics

Statistics posts are a fantastic way to engage your audience by providing them with valuable data.

People LOVE numbers and data, especially when it comes to understanding trends, behavior, and industry insights.

Statistics post-1

Plus, sharing statistics can help establish yourself as an authority and expert in your field.

Here's how to create the perfect statistics post:


  • Source data from industry reports, surveys, studies, or by collecting your own data
  • Choose a statistic that's relevant and interesting
  • Turn the statistic into a visually appealing graphic that makes the data easy to consume
  • Give your graphic a header that hooks users
  • Write a caption that gives context into why the data matters

Important note: Remember to cite your source to show your content is credible.

 

 

18. Drawings or graphics

Not everyone is an artist, but if you are... you should definitely show it on your Instagram!

Posting artwork is a way to connect with your audience on a personal level, while showcasing your creativity.

This will attract followers who appreciate your unique style.

drawing

19. Run a contest

One simple way to build hype around your brand is by running a contest and posting about it.

Contests encourage engagement AND attract new followers.

So, get your creative juices flowing and come up with a contest idea that aligns with your brand and appeals to your target audience.

Contest-1

When brainstorming contest ideas, think about:

  • What would resonate with your followers?
  • What would incentivize them to participate?
  • What would cause your contest to go VIRAL?
  • What metric do you want to improve with your contest (more followers, signups, sales, etc.)?

For example, you could do a giveaway where participants have to follow your account, like the contest post, and tag a friend for a chance to win a prize.

To promote your contest, create visually appealing graphics or videos that clearly communicate the rules and entry requirements.

Don't forget to set clear guidelines and rules for your contest to ensure fairness and transparency.

20. Post your employees

Creating posts about your employees can be a powerful way to humanize your brand.

And remember: People buy from people. Not companies.

employees

Consider highlighting your employees' unique skills, talents, achievements, and contributions to the company.

Share photos of them in action.

This could be of your employees working on a project, interacting with customers, or participating in team-building activities. 

In addition to showcasing your employees' professional side, don't be afraid to show their personalities and interests outside of work.

For example, you could share photos of them enjoying hobbies, celebrating milestones, or participating in community events.

This adds a personal touch to your brand and helps create a connection with your audience beyond just the products you offer.

21. Cross-promote from your other social media accounts

Did you know you can get more reach out of the content you post on OTHER social platforms?

In fact, Instagram is PERFECT for promoting your content from other platforms like Twitter and YouTube.

cross promote

One effective way to cross-promote is by sharing snippets or teasers of your content from other platforms on your feed or Stories.

For example, if you have a YouTube channel where you create educational videos, you can post a short clip or a captivating thumbnail on Instagram, along with a call-to-action to watch the full video on YouTube.

This gives your Instagram followers a taste of what they can expect from your content and encourages them to explore your other channels.

22. Seasonal posts

Seasonal posts are a great way to keep your Instagram content fresh, relatable, and engaging.

These types of posts are about the equivalent of asking a stranger, "How about that weather today, huh?"

Literally anyone can have a conversation about the weather, right? 😂

By creating posts that align with specific seasons or holidays, you can tap into the excitement and anticipation that comes with specific times of the year.

seasonal post

Pro Tip: Plan your seasonal posts AHEAD of time. (It's easy to forget about posts that align with the seasons when you're focused on your usual content.)

23. Cover an event

How often do you attend industry events?

Attending events is a great opportunity to create engaging and exciting content for your Instagram feed — especially if they're relevant to your audience.

Events could be a lot of things...

  • Conferences
  • Trade shows
  • Local community events

Consider capturing the atmosphere and setting of the event.

Take photos or videos of the venue, the stage, or any eye-catching decorations or displays.

events

This will give your audience a sense of what it was like to be there.

In other words, you could be your audience's eyes and ears for those who couldn't attend.

Remember to respect any rules or guidelines set by the event organizers regarding photography or sharing content.

Some events may have restrictions on what can be shared, so make sure to check before posting.

24. Collab with other brands & influencers

Here's a quick way to grow your following of people in your target audience:

  1. Find other brands and influencers in your industry that have a similar audience
  2. Reach out to them to start a relationship
  3. Pitch the idea of collaborating on content together

It's a win-win situation.

You both get content to post, and you cross-pollinate each other's followings.

Check out this example of a local photographer and local artist doing a collab post:

collab

25. Carousels 

Capturing your audience's attention while they're scrolling is more important than ever.

Feeds are saturated with content, meaning you'll have to take it a step further to stand out.

One way to do this is by posting carousels!

Carousels are a post format that allows you to share multiple photos or videos in a single post.

This adds variety to your content and encourages your followers to engage with your post by swiping through the carousel to see more.

carousel-1

Consider making a carousel to:

  • Tell a story
  • Showcase a product or service
  • Share a step-by-step tutorial

Or pair this post format with any of the other ideas in this article!

26. Go Live

Go live on Instagram to connect with your audience in real-time and create an interactive experience.

Going live allows you to engage with your followers in a more personal and spontaneous way, fostering a sense of authenticity and community.

Here are some tips to make your first Instagram Live a success:

  • Plan your content and have a clear purpose for your live session. (This could be hosting a Q&A session, giving a behind-the-scenes look at your work, hosting a live tutorial, or even conducting interviews with industry experts.)
  • Promote your Live sessions with Instagram Stories, Reels, and regular posts to generate anticipation.
  • Let your followers know the date, time, and topic of your live session.
  • During your live session, engage with your viewers by responding to their comments, questions, and reactions. Encourage them to participate by asking for their input, conducting polls, or hosting giveaways.
  • Make your live session visually appealing with good lighting and a clear background.
  • Consider using props or visual aids to keep your audience engaged.
  • Use features like filters or stickers to add a touch of creativity and fun to your live session.

After your live session, save the video and share it on your Instagram feed or IGTV to reach a wider audience.

This allows those who missed the live session to catch up and provides long-term value for your content. 

27. Recap your year

What have you accomplished in the past the past year?

Or maybe, what were your biggest failures and lessons learned?

As the year comes to a close, it's the perfect time to reflect on and share a recap of your year with your followers.

recap

A year-end recap post allows you to highlight your achievements, milestones, and memorable moments.

28. Share a mistake

The image most people show of themselves on social media is often their best picture, with perfect lighting, at the perfect time of them doing something really interesting.

This is flat-out not realistic.

Even the most aesthetic Instagrammers are doing very unaesthetic things throughout the day.

Which includes making mistakes in their life.

And that's okay.

So, if you want to come off as more real and HUMAN, consider making a post about one of your big mistakes.

Although you might not be proud of it, plenty of your followers would still appreciate learning from it!

29. Ask a question

Want to know one of the most simple YET effective ways to engage your followers?

Ask them a question!

By posing a question, you encourage engagement (which increases your reach) and gain valuable insights and feedback from your followers.

Which could be used to create even more posts in the future!

30. Share a testimonial or customer story

customer story

Your customers are the lifeblood of your business.

And if you want more Instagram followers to turn into customers, you need to give them social proof.

So, what's the best social proof you can show off on Instagram?

Customer stories!

If your followers are already interested in buying from you, a customer story will help them visualize what it's like to be your customer.

Here's how to make the perfect customer story post:

  1. Hand-pick a customer that you know is very happy with your business.
  2. Ask them for permission to be featured on your Instagram.
  3. Interview them to learn about what their life was like before they became a customer.
  4. Tell a success story about how your product solved their problems and helped them reach their dream outcome.
  5. Don't forget to include a photo or video of your happy customer for proof!

How to schedule your Instagram posts to save hours of time every week

So, you have all of these new Instagram post ideas.

How do you turn these ideas into a full-fledged Instagram content strategy?

Use a social media scheduling tool like Post Planner!

Sure, you can post manually, but that usually will end up costing you inconsistency and fewer followers.

Post Planner gives you tools that help automate Instagram and save you 6+ hours every week.

You get:

  • Bulk post scheduling
  • A content library full of ideas
  • AI tools for content creation
  • A content designer
  • A content calendar that's easy to manage

And if your business is on other social platforms, Post Planner can post to those too.

And guess what?

Starting with Post Planner is as easy as creating a free account!

Frequently asked questions about Instagram posting

Should I add hashtags to my Instagram posts?

Absolutely!

Using hashtags is one of the BEST organic methods to spread your content to MORE people.

According to WordStream, you should use about 11 relevant hashtags per post.

Also, don’t use too many broad or over-popular hashtags because your post will be drowned out by all the other users!

Want more Instagram hashtag gold nuggets?

Check out our article about Instagram hashtags for businesses for deeper inside scoops on how to use them.

What should I post on my Instagram highlights?

We've covered some great Instagram post ideas for Instagram feeds and Stories — but Instagram Highlights have some best practices too.

If you don't know already, Instagram highlights are a series of stories you can group into a category on your Instagram page.

They look like this:

5086156Post your best Stories in categories so that it's easy for users to search through your content.

This is what makes highlights great.

Not everyone will see your Stories within the 24-hour timeframe.

But everyone can see your highlights ANYTIME!

And by the way…

If you browse other brands, you'll notice that they add Instagram highlight covers to represent each category.

(These are often just mini graphics.)

This gives your page a BRAND feel.

What are good times to post on Instagram?

There’s a button that says "insights" on your profile.

Instagram Insights lets you know the online activity of your followers.

Take note of peak hours when your followers are online, and post content at those active timeframes.

But are there universally "best" posting times?

Sort of.

However, tailoring your posting time to YOUR audience is the truly best posting time!

If you're running a business, I can bet my right foot that you get busy from time to time.

With this reality, scheduling your content is your best bet (seriously!).

What content is the most popular on Instagram?

The real answer is dependent on YOUR specific audience.

So, test different types of content to see what gets you the most engagement, followers, and sales.

However, according to Statista, these are the top 5 preferred content types by users:

  1. Funny
  2. Creative
  3. Informative
  4. Relaxing
  5. Inspiring

 

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