How To Use Instagram: The Complete Beginner's Guide

Whether you want to promote a small business, share your travel experiences, or stay in touch with friends, Instagram is an ideal visual platform for getting visually creative. However, so many features and tools can make it daunting for new users.

In this step-by-step guide, you'll learn how to use Instagram, set up your profile, and maximize the platform.

What’s Instagram?

Instagram is an image and video-sharing social media network where you can create visual content for your followers. The platform inspires creativity and connection. Instagram's central hub is its feed, where users scroll through posts, double-tap to like, or leave comments. After functioning primarily as a photo-sharing app for many years, Instagram now includes interactive features like Stories, Reels, and Live videos.

What’s Instagram Used For?

Instagram is a space for individuals to express creativity, connect with friends, and explore interests. You can get involved in numerous ways, such as:

• Sharing everyday moments.
• Showcasing hobbies.
• Discovering new trends.
• Joining like-minded communities.
• Advertising your brand or products.

On the business end specifically, Instagram can be a powerful marketing tool. With over two billion monthly active users, it helps brands reach a global audience. Features like shopping tags, paid ads, and analytics make it an excellent channel for promoting products and services.

How To Create an Instagram Account

Learn how to get on Instagram and start exploring the platform with this step-by-step guide.

1. Download the Instagram App or Visit the Website

Open the Instagram app on your smartphone or go to instagram.com on your web browser. On the home screen, tap "Sign Up" if you already have an account or click "Create New Account."

2. Enter Your Details

Instagram will ask you to enter some essential information when setting up Instagram, including:

• Name — Use your real name or your brand name if it's for a business account. 
• Password — To keep your account secure, choose a strong password with at least six characters, including a mix of numbers and symbols.
• Date of birth — Instagram requires users to be at least 13 years old to join.
• Contact information — Add an email address or phone number. Make sure it's active, as you'll need it to verify your account later.

3. Choose a username

Your username is how Instagram users will find and recognize you. Keep it simple and relevant, like your full name or brand name. For example, if your business is "Luna Candles," a username like @LunaCandles makes your account identifiable and professional.

4. Verify Your Account

Instagram will send an authentication code to your email or phone number. Enter the verification code to confirm your identity and activate your profile.

5. Agree to Instagram's Terms

Read and accept Instagram's terms of service and privacy policy to complete the process.

How To Use Instagram’s Features

Instagram has tons of features to help you share content, engage with others, and build your online presence. Here’s how to post on Instagram and use it to the fullest.

The Instagram Feed

The Instagram feed is where your posts and the posts of accounts you follow appear. To share your own:

• Tap the plus (+) icon at the bottom of your screen.
• Upload an image or video from your camera roll or capture one directly from the app.
• Add filters, adjust brightness, or crop your image to your liking.
• Write a caption, include hashtags, and tag any relevant creators to increase visibility.

Instagram Stories

Stories are temporary content pieces that disappear after 24 hours, making them perfect for quick updates or fun moments. To create one:

• Swipe right from your home screen or tap your profile picture.
• Click a photo, record a video, or upload something from your gallery.
• Use stickers, text, and filters to make it interactive. You can also include polls and quizzes in your Stories to boost engagement. For instance, a poll like "What's your favorite product of ours?" can spark conversations with your audience.

Instagram Reels

Reels are short, engaging videos set to music or original audio. They’re great for showcasing creativity and reaching new audiences. To create a Reel:

• Tap the Reels icon next to your profile photo or tap the plus (+) button and select “Reel.”
• Record clips directly or upload pre-recorded videos.
• Add music, effects, and text to your Instagram Reel. Use trending audio and hashtags to make your content more discoverable. For example, a fitness trainer might share a Reel of quick workout tips with upbeat music.

Hashtags

Hashtags make your Instagram posts discoverable to people beyond your followers. When you use trending hashtags, the Instagram algorithm helps your content reach those with similar interests. To use them:

• Include relevant hashtags like #TravelTips or #SmallBusiness in your captions or comments.
• Stick to about five hashtags to avoid making your content spammy.
• Research hashtags your audience follows. For example, if you’re a baker, try niche tags like #CakeDecorating or #SourdoughBaking.

Direct Messages

Instagram’s direct message (DM) feature lets you privately connect with others. Use it to reply to followers, network, or collaborate. Here’s how:

• Tap the paper airplane icon in the top-right corner of your home screen.
• Send messages and voice notes, share posts, or even start a video call with another = user.
• Personalize your messages when reaching out to collaborators. A thoughtful intro can make all the difference.

Instagram Best Practices To Grow Your Page

Growing your Instagram page requires more than posting great content —it’s about creating a strategy that resonates with your audience and keeps them coming back. Follow these Instagram hacks to build a stronger presence on the platform:

• Post on Instagram consistently — Try to maintain a regular posting schedule to constantly engage your audience and attract new followers. Experiment with different times and days to find when your audience is most active. Content calendars can help you plan and maintain consistency, while you can schedule posts within Instagram to post at peak hours for the highest engagement.
• Interact with your audience — Respond to comments, like posts from followers, and participate in conversations through messages or polls. Engagement signals that you value your community, encouraging them to interact with your content more often.
• Prioritize visual content — Instagram is a visually driven platform, so invest time in creating high-quality, eye-catching photos and videos. Use natural lighting, composition techniques, and simple editing tools to make your posts stand out.

Make Your Instagram Profile Stand Out With Captions

Instagram is one of the internet's most powerful platforms for connecting with audiences, sharing creativity, and growing your presence. With Captions, you can turn your profile into an entertainment hub and keep viewers coming back for more.

Captions' AI Edit feature lets you transform raw clips into professional-level videos that stand out in the feed. Add exciting transitions, trending audio, and an eye-catching B-roll — all in just a few taps. Whether you're making Instagram Reels, Stories, or posts, Captions makes it easy to create memorable content.