How to grow on Instagram as a photographer in 2026

The days are gone when we could upload a random photograph from our latest shoot, slap on a few hashtags, and see thousands of likes coming in.

Reels are here to stay - our favorite image app is now a video app.

You either get with the program or get buried by the algorithm. That’s not me being pessimistic, it’s what the data shows.

This guide is made by @trovatten - The founder of Underexposed, a marketing community for photographers.

This statistic tells the whole story of growing on Instagram

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It’s a study done by Buffer, analyzing 4 million Instagram posts, concluding that Reels are getting 36% more reach than carousels and twice as much reach as a single photo.

I can’t stress the importance of this enough. In order to get followers, you need reach; in order to get reach, your best bet is Reels and carousels.

What to do with this information?

Your job, as a photographer trying to get more followers on Instagram, is to master the art of Reels—that’s it. Don’t be distracted by misinformation:

  • You don’t need to post a certain amount per week: Quality and consistency win over low-effort quantity.

  • Hashtags are basically irrelevant: Keyword SEO in your captions is the new discovery tool.

  • Private signals are gold: Posts that lead to shares (sends) or private conversations between friends are your biggest growth drivers.

What to post on Instagram as a photographer

In 2026, content diversity is your greatest asset. As a photographer, you are now a storyteller.

  • Prioritize Reels: Despite various photo-centric updates, Reels offer the highest impact for growth. Focus on "Process" videos—show how you got the shot, the lighting setup, or the before-and-after editing.

  • Use Carousels: Maximize engagement by sharing 10–20 of your best images in sets rather than single photos. The algorithm often re-serves carousels to users who didn’t swipe the first time, giving you a "second chance" at reach.

How do professional photographers post on Instagram?

Professional photographers treat their feed as a curated portfolio but use their Stories and Reels to show their personality. They don’t just post a photo; they post a result.

  • Consistency over Frequency: Aim for at least one to two high-quality posts per week rather than spamming daily. High-quality, high-engagement posts have a longer "shelf life" in the 2026 algorithm.

  • The 4:5 Ratio: Professionals rarely post landscape photos. They crop to the vertical 4:5 ratio 1080x350 px) to ensure their work takes up the entire smartphone screen.

Posting professional photos on Instagram

When posting high-end work, ensure your export settings are optimized for mobile viewing. High-resolution files often get compressed poorly by Instagram; instead, export at 1080x1350 px to maintain sharpness. Use your captions to bridge the gap between the viewer and the art—tell the story of the day or the technical challenge you overcame.

How to start a photography Instagram

Starting fresh in 2026 requires a "video-first" mindset.

  • Define your Niche: Whether it’s street photography, wedding, or wildlife, being a "generalist" makes it harder for the algorithm to categorize and recommend you.

  • The Rule of Nine: Ensure your first nine posts are visually cohesive. This is your digital storefront.

  • Leverage Stories: Use polls, BTS, and direct videos to build a community. Stories are where you convert "viewers" into "loyal fans."

How to get more followers on my photography Instagram

Growth is a byproduct of reach and engagement.

If you want people to follow you, you must provide value or inspiration.

Profile & Engagement Optimization

  • Optimize Your Bio: Clearly state what you do, your location, and your niche. Use a searchable keyword in your name field (e.g., "Jane Doe | London Portrait Photographer").

  • Engage Genuinely: Don't just post and ghost. Comment, like, and DM other accounts in your niche to build real relationships.

  • Call to Action (CTA): Ask questions in your captions to encourage comments. A simple "Which edit do you prefer, 1 or 2?" can quadruple your engagement.

Instagram alternatives for photographers

If the video-heavy nature of Instagram feels stifling, diversifying your presence is a smart business move for 2026:

Final Thought: Success in 2026 isn't about fighting the video trend—it's about using video to invite people into your world as a still photographer.