They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and with Instagram, you have the chance to say a great deal about you and your travel business. Here are some quick photo tips to help you compose and capture “gram-worthy” photos that will hopefully help you to build a stellar profile and dedicated following.
Using Filters
Don’t be afraid to use filters or edit your photos. Instagram has built-in tools to enhance your photos, and the platform’s users are accustomed to seeing photos that have been edited in some way. Play with these settings and filters to get comfortable with how to edit your photos. You may also choose to use a specific filter on all of your posts. This can help you cultivate a brand so that users instantly recognize one of your posts by their style, even when they are speedily scrolling through their feed.
Learn from Your Edits
You should also note how you edit your photos. This can help you to develop your ability to take pictures so that they will require less editing in the future. For example, maybe you notice that you are always zooming in or cropping your photos. Remember this the next time your take a photo and consider moving closer to the subject you are photographing. Or maybe your pictures are often too bright, and your photo’s subject is washed out. You can use this knowledge to explore how taking a photo from a different angle or at a different time of day affects the final product.
Rule of Thirds
Take your pictures to the next level with the rule of thirds. This simple photography trick can help you take more visually dynamic pictures by ensuring you aren’t putting the main focus directly in the center of the frame. When lining up a picture, imagine two vertical and two horizontal lines dividing your screen into sections, like a tic-tac-toe board. Some smartphones or cameras offer the option to overlay this grid on the screen. Before snapping the photo, line up the important features of your photo along these lines or at the intersections.
Add a New Perspective
Choose interesting perspectives that compels users to look at a photo longer or to think about something in new way. You can do this by trying a different angle, taking an extreme close-up, or using the shadows and light in a unique way. These types of images often draw users to read the caption for more information and can encourage them to post comments and reactions.
Don’t Underestimate Simplicity
Sometimes it is best to let a subject speak for itself. In this case, highlight a single subject, like a palm tree framed against a clear blue sky or a single seashell on the sand. The simplicity of these photos makes them pop and allows you to capture a moment. These are particularly powerful if you have a strong caption that tells a story about the image or angle.
Add to Your Image
There are many apps, like Canva, which allow you to add to your photos. You can overlay words, use shapes, and place borders on your pictures. This can help capture the attention of Instagrammers who may not stop to read the captions.
Don’t forget that you can find us on Instagram @KHMTravel! We are dedicated to helping our agents develop the skills they need to market to clients and grow their businesses. If you would like to learn more about becoming a travel agent hosted by KHM Travel Group, fill out the form to the right or give us a call at 1-888-611-1220.