At this point, everyone accepts that Instagram is basically one big 24/7 humblebrag. And a part of humble bragging is showing off your freshest, newest, cleanest, rarest kicks. But there are rules—or at least strongly suggested guidelines—for doing this right. Here are a few Do’s and Don’ts to live by.
Do: Use The Camera on Your Phone
There’s nothing cheesier than posting a hi-res professional-quality image of your new Jordans all in the name of stunting. Use the camera that God (Apple) gave you. This whole process shouldn’t take longer than 60 seconds. If it does, you’re overthinking it.
Don’t: Take a “Side Angle Jeans Photo”
Sneakers never are as photogenic on your feet as they are in a still-life setting. If you must take an outfit pic, at least make sure you’re pants game is on point (in other words, doesn’t look like the below photo).
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Do: Be Consistent, But Not Robotic
Sure, you want to find a reliable setting with a clean, simple background. What you don’t want is to use the exact same location and angles and filters every time. Let the sneaker itself lead the way. Does it have an awesome tongue? Shoot that to switch things up. Is the sole some insane neon print? Highlight that.
Don’t: Use Pre-Loaded Filters
Instagram’s brightness and contrast dimmers are your closest allies. Expect to increase the brightness a touch and crank up the contrast a bit, but don’t overdo it or your pics will start to look too sharp. Above all, avoid the stock filters. They’ll make the colors of your shoes look all wonky.
Do: Use Natural Light
The sun is the best light source of all. So find a place outside or near a window to take pictures. Plus, your phone’s camera performs better when it has natural light to use, which will make the photos a lot cleaner and the colors more accurate.
Don’t: Over-Hashtag
Do: Gram the Shoes YOU Like
There are already a zillion plus one Instagram accounts dedicated to the newest, hottest sneaker releases. Don’t chase the hypebeasts. If you’re gonna humblebrag, it should at least be a humblebrag that’s uniquely yours.
Related:
10 Models You Need to Follow on Instagram
How to Instagram Like a Man
