Instagram’s New Update Lets iPhone Users Post Directly from Camera Roll

It’s no secret that us millennials love social media. We’re always sharing photos of everything we eat, double-tapping into the late hours of the night, and spending more time interacting online than with our own besties. So why aren’t we racking up thousands of followers yet?

We’ve teamed up with PicMonkey, our favorite photo and design editor program, to show you how you can easily use their online and mobile features to build an Instagram presence that is as cool as you are IRL. And guess what? You can get a sneak peek of the updated program while it’s still being finalized.

Ready? Scroll on for five simple ways to uplevel your social media presence.

TIP 1: PHOTOGRAPHY 101 IS KEY

If you didn’t snap a pic, did it even happen?! Creating a strong social media presence begins with taking interesting photos — this is when you want to stand out! Here are a few tried and true rules we’ve learned along the way:

Seek out colorful subjects. If you’ve stalked our Instagram, you’ve probably noticed we’re obsessed with capturing beautiful flowers, pattern walls, and intricate desserts. Basically, anything over the top that will grab our followers’ attention!

When styling or snapping photos, we love to focus on an odd number of items. It allows the photo to feel well balanced without being too symmetrical. For example, three stemmed roses are usually better than two.

Most importantly, turn your flash off, and embrace chasing that natural light. Look for bright spaces that will allow your photo to pop.

Psst: This online photography class will be your new best friend!

TIP#2: EXPERIMENT WITH CREATIVE TOOLS TO DIFFERENTIATE YOUR CONTENT
Whether it’s a collage, travel guide, or fun graphic, we’re all about getting outside of the box. Still, not everyone has the ability to set aside hours for one social media post. New PicMonkey is the perfect design solution for busy people to create, edit, and publish social content in a jiff!

When creating a new image, you can choose to directly upload an image, use a super cute pre-made template, or start from a blank canvas. We’re alllll about that custom life, so we started from scratch with a canvas in this case. New PicMonkey makes it easy to size your images perfectly by providing a canvas for every purpose you can think of! We’re talking Etsy icons, Facebook business covers, YouTube thumbnails, and more. Since we’re focusing on how to up our Instagram game, we used the “Instagram Stories” canvas to make our magic.

First things first: add photos! Get started by choosing your desired shape. For example, try a triangle! Once you’ve selected and sized a shape to your liking, it’s time to add texture. We chose to upload a custom image into our triangle by selecting “Add your own.” Turn the “Fade” tool all the way down to zero. Ta-da! Your image is cropped perfectly inside a shape. You can even move the image around within the crop.

New PicMonkey also introduces all kinds of pre-made textures. We’re partial to clouds, because #dreamy. Follow the same steps by creating a shape, adding texture, and adjusting your “Fade.”

For the final step, we used one of our favorite new features: the ability to erase parts of text. It gave our creation a little extra depth and quirk. See? New PicMonkey is the ultimate solution for making fun content in a pinch. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that everyone will think you’re a total design pro.

When you’re all finished, your image will automatically save to your Hub. With the mobile app, you can then directly upload the images into Instagram stories.

Bonus: Get access to New PicMonkey using this link. Then, if you hop over to your desktop to subscribe by 11:59pm PST on 6/21, PicMonkey will give you an additional 3 months free!

TIP #3: GET COZY WITH YOUR FOLLOWERS AND ONLINE FRIENDS

Treat your online pals the same way you would your friends! Respond to comments and messages, and always answer questions. Don’t be shy to share where you bought that new top or where you found that cute little cafe! Most importantly, take the time to invest back in the people who engage in your content. Not only will it help you get your content more exposure, but you’ll also build an online community and support system.

TIP #4: HOOK ‘EM WITH YOUR PROFILE PICTURE

Seriously! There’s nothing worse than having to squint to make out who is in a tiny, pixelated profile photo. Save your friends (and yourself) the trouble by choosing a clear and colorful photo that will stand out against the noise. We love that just seconds after taking a photo, we can use PicMonkey’s mobile app to edit it to perfection on-the-go.

Besides the ability to choose from tons of effects and filters, there are a few other features within the touch up category that will help enhance your profile photo. For example, we used the “Area” tool to soften the background of our photo. Did we mention that there’s even an option to add lip tint and mascara?

Pro tip: Use the “Instagram profile” canvas to size your image and crop to your liking!

TIP #5: GET STRATEGIC WITH HOW MUCH AND WHEN YOU POST
We’ve all heard the saying that timing is everything -— it’s true! Posting an hour earlier could be the difference between your beautiful photo receiving the attention it deserves and going unsung. You’ve put in the hard creative work. Now it’s time to act strategically!

Instagram loves to reward engagement and interaction by allowing your photo to have more visibility. Post consistently and pay attention to when your audience is most likely connect with your content. For example, people love to check their phones first thing in the morning. Try posting your photo around 7:00am before your followers dive into their work day.

See? We’re all in this together! Social media is constantly evolving — so leave room for trial and error! Even more important, find tools that allow you to stay creative, flexible, and wise with your time. You’ll thank yourself in long run and enjoy building your online brand more. After all, it’s about working smarter, not harder. You’ve totally got this!

Do you have any tips for nailing social media? We’d love to hear them! Share with us on Twitter by tagging @BritandCo and @PicMonkey.

Production & Styling: Kayla Haykin

Photography: Brittany Griffin

Modeling: Rebecca Fong & Kayla Haykin

Instagram and adventures really do go hand in hand; after all, studies show that many people actually travel for the ‘gram. Since sharing your pictures is even more fun (and impressive) when they look ultra-pro, we talked with a handful of photographers, travel bloggers, and IG influencers to get a few tips that’ll help you capture the best snapshots on your next trip. Scroll on for their insider secrets — no filters or editing needed.

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Let's find some beautiful place to get lost in 🌺 #sunsetsherbert #sunsets #sunset_ig #balilovers #Bali #baliindonesia #travelinfluencer #travelandlife #purple #bestvacations #BestInTravel #beachesnresorts #sidewalkerdaily #thetravelwomen #girlslovetravel #girlswhotravel #Indonesia #passionpassport #natgeo #balibeach #brunette #travelblogger #exploringtheglobe #glitter #pink #beautifuldestinations #beach #sunset #islandlife

A post shared by Sarah (@sarahfunky) on Feb 27, 2018 at 10:29am PST

1. Keep it clean and simple. Instagram influencer Sarah Funky advises keeping shots clean and simple. “Don’t overcomplicate it,” she tells us. “The more simple the background, oftentimes the better.” Funky makes her pictures look pretty by coordinating the colors in her Instagram feed and swears by sharing only your most top-notch stuff. “Quality is better than quantity, so make sure every photo has great lighting and a story behind it — even if you make it up! Aim for an excellent composition.”

Stephen Aviano, the director of photography at Travelzoo, agrees. “A clean composition is key,” he echoes. “Too much can be a distraction, so center your shot with one main focus.”

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Classic spot in Toscana 🇮🇹 ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Today's shoutout via #swedishnomad goes to @preethi_k_b 🙌

A post shared by ALEX W - SWEDISH NOMAD 🇸🇪🇸🇪🇸🇪 (@swedishnomad) on Feb 27, 2018 at 9:31am PST

2. Make the most of golden hours. “Light plays a big part in how your pictures will turn out, and many of the best images are shot during the golden hour, which occurs twice a day,” professional photographer Alex Waltner of Swedish Nomad schools us. “Look for this kind of lighting in the morning before the sun rises and toward evening when the sun is going down.” Waltner says that taking advantage of one of the day’s natural golden hours is a legit way to get rid of sharp shadows or the too-bright light that shows up in shots midday.

Travel blogger Lindsay Stein agrees that good lighting makes all the difference when it comes to creating an image that stands out. “Yes, there are preset filters and apps that can fix lighting, but the best way to capture a quality image is taking advantage of natural light,” she affirms. “Personally, I love bright and colorful images since they really embody the beauty in different foods, cultures, and people.”

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Ice Cream Anyone? 😍 what's your favorite flavor? And yes.. 2 sec after taking this photo the ice cream melted like crazy 😂 but i think it looks nice and it was delicious! At @discoversoneva you can make your own ice cream any time a day! . . . . . #swedish#travelcouple#maldives#beachlife#icecream#paradise#beach#palmtrees#globetrotter#vacay#semester#ferie#reise#strand#couple#travel#beachesandhotels#surroundmewithwater#turquoise#sommer#romantic#honeymoon#ferie#travelblogger#whitesand#beachlover#summer#beaches

A post shared by ALEX W - SWEDISH NOMAD 🇸🇪🇸🇪🇸🇪 (@swedishnomad) on Nov 19, 2017 at 6:57am PST

3. Get creative with how you position yourself. Waltner’s second tip will help you score photos from all sorts of angles. The trick? Switch up your position while photographing the same thing to capture heaps of snapshots that look and feel different. “To constantly photograph from the same angle or position will become boring,” he explains. “To keep it interesting and get great pictures, change your position towards the subject. Trying bending down, moving to the side, squatting, lying down, and so on. Use your imagination!” To test this technique, Watner suggests practicing with shots of animals or kids. “Try shooting at the same level as your subject,” he offers. “Then, take some shots from above. See how you can create the most vivid and compelling picture.”

Rachelle Lucas, a traveler who has experienced more than 50 countries, reminds us that you don’t need a drone to score unusual shots. “Back in my video production days, we used to scout parking garages for one that had the best view of the city from the top. It’s an easy way to get a high angle without using a drone. Plus, it’s a great place to capture a sunrise or sunset.”

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Happy Summer Solstice! ☀️What are your plans for the longest day of the year? 💜 "In summer, the days were long, stretching into each other. Out of school, everything was on pause and yet happening at the same time, this collection of weeks when anything is possible." -Sarah Desson. . . 📷 in #yeahTHATgreenville 👡 by @deuxmainsdesigns . #summer #travel #pink #summervibes #staycool #wanderlust #explore #color

A post shared by Rachelle Lucas (@thetravelbite) on Jun 21, 2017 at 12:02pm PDT

4. Always be ready. Spontaneous shots can be the best ones, so train yourself to keep your eyes out for unique structures, scenery, or epic moments that happen to unfold right before your eyes. Even more, make sure whatever camera you carry works well and is ready to go. When it comes to the right kind of equipment, Aviano suggests buying a camera with Bluetooth and using a big memory card so you can snap away without running out of storage. Lucas cast her vote for a mirrorless camera. “This kind of camera is more compact and lightweight than a typical DSLR, and therefore easier to travel with,” she explains. “Plus, most have WiFi built-in and smartphone app connectivity so you can transfer your great shots directly to your phone to share on Instagram.”

How do you score great travel snapshots? Tweet us your top tips @BritandCo!

(Featured photo via Getty)

College and high school graduations are just around the corner, and you may be wondering what to get your favorite Gen Z grads. Luckily for you, we compiled a list of 15 fabulous graduation gifts for every price range that are guaranteed to put a smile on your graduate’s face!

Set of 4 Meal Prep Containers

Who doesn’t love pretty Tupperware? Whether your 2024 grad is a gym rat or a library lover, they will definitely find a good use for these air-tight, leak-proof containers.

Benevolence LA New Beginnings Scented Soy Candle

Send them off with this sweet-scented candle that celebrates their achievements, as well as the next steps ahead of them!

A Hundred Other Girlsby Iman Hariri-Kia

This book is like a modern day Devil Wears Prada, and would make the perfect gift for any grad going into journalism, media, or PR — especially if they’re moving to a big city.

Stanley Quencher H2.0

Hydration is key for anyone, especially a new college student that's running between classes, club meetings, and friend hangs! This tumbler will also keep their liquids cold overnight so they don't have to go down the dorm hall in the middle of the night for a fresh refill.

Dagne Dover Mila Repreve® Recycled Polyester Large Toiletry Organizer Bag

If you're sending off a high school grad to communal dorms, they'll definitely benefit from having a compact toiletry bag like this one. This style is particularly nice since it's made from recycled polyester that resists water and debris.

2024 Daily Planner

Using a planner is such an underrated way to stay organized, whether it's prepping for college coursework or adulting stuff like work events, grocery shopping, and plans with friends. This all-in-one daily planner will help your grad keep their ducks in a row with fields for all of life's details.

Honeywell Mini Cool Mist Humidifier

This humidifier, made especially for small rooms and personal spaces (ahem, dorm rooms!) helps maintain humidity levels between 40-60%, which can help relieve congestion and keep the throat and nasal passages hydrated to prevent sickness. This is crucial for soon-to-be college students who may hang around a lot of different people.​

Fresh Sends Flower Bouquet

Flowers are a staple for any major life event, especially a graduation! Fresh Sends is perfect for sending beautiful bouquets for those who live far away, since they ship directly to the recipient's door.

The Beast Mini Blender

This super-effective, high-power portable blender is the perfect size for a dorm room or small apartment, plus it's very aesthetically-pleasing even if it's just sitting on the shelf. It comes equipped with a screw-on lid and straw, too, so your grad can take it on walks and in the car.

Béis The Sport Backpack

Perfect for grads on the go, this bag can hold their water bottle, phone, wallet and so much more when they're trekking across campus.

Loop Quiet Equinox Earplugs

These design-forward earplugs are multipurpose – they block out extra noise for study sessions and sleep time, or even loud parties and concerts! Your grad will appreciate that they come with an easy-to-carry case for keeping them on-hand in unforeseen, noisy situations.

Crush Your Goals Inner Truth Affirmations Deck

For an extra dose of motivation, this 40-count deck of cards will keep them going when times get tough!

Keurig K-Mini Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker

Coffee will ​always ​be a part of any new grad's life. Keep 'em caffeinated with this convenient coffee maker that's compatible with K-Cups for everyday ease.

Hoka Clifton 9 Sneakers

Hokas are undoubtedly the cool girl of running shoes, and they will definitely make your grad hit the pavement smiling, no matter if they're stepping foot on their college campus for the first time or making big moves in a new city.

Great Jones The Starting Lineup

This trio of cookware is such a stylish way to give your recipient's post-grad kitchen an upgrade. All three pieces are oven-safe and dishwasher-friendly to make cleanup a breeze.

Find all of the greatest gifts with Brit + Co!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.