How to Post on Instagram & Top Tips for Success

Posted on 14th Apr, 2025.

TL;DR (The Short Version)

Posting on Instagram is an easy process - simply click the Plus+ icon and follow instructions.
Our top tips for Instagram success include posting consistently, posting to your Stories, cross-promoting your channel on other platforms, and using relevant hashtags.
Read on for more tips!

Originally a photo-sharing app for friends and family, Instagram has transformed into something you can actually use to promote a business and bring in a full-time income as a content creator. But the first key to success is learning how to post, and how to post effectively to increase engagement and follower count.

In this guide, we'll run you through the basics of posting, as well as our top tips for Instagram success. Let's get into it.

How to Post on Instagram: A Step-by-Step Guide

Whether you’re new to Instagram or just want a refresher, here's how to post with ease.

1. Open the Instagram App. Start by opening the app on your mobile device. Instagram is designed primarily for smartphones, although limited posting is possible on desktop.

2. Tap the Plus (+) Icon. You'll find this icon at the bottom centre of your screen (or at the top depending on updates). Tapping this will allow you to start a new post.

3. Select Your Content.Choose from your camera roll or take a new photo or video directly. You can also create carousel posts (multiple images/videos in one post) by selecting more than one piece of content.

4. Edit Your Content. Use Instagram’s built-in filters and editing tools to enhance your visuals. You can adjust brightness, contrast, structure, warmth, saturation, and more.

5. Write a Caption. Your caption can be funny, heartfelt, informative, or minimal—it’s up to you. This is where your voice comes through. Emojis, hashtags, mentions, and tags all add engagement value.

6. Tag People & Add Location. You can tag other users by tapping ‘Tag People’. If it’s relevant, add a location—posts with a tagged location often perform better.

7. Share. Once you’re happy, hit ‘Share’. Your post is now live for your followers (or the public, if your account is set to public) to view, like, comment, and share.

Top Tips for Instagram Success

Now you've got the basics down, we'll talk you through our biggest pointers for going viral.

1. Post Consistently

While you don't have to post daily like TikTok, the most successful Instagram influencers post at least 3 times a week and tend to upload to their Story daily. Posting regularly keeps your content in circulation and your profile active, as well as stopping people from unfollowing you due to inactivity.

2. Nail Your Captions

Using cool Instagram captions helps boost engagement by showing off your personality. Depending on your tone, you could be witty, reflective, informative, or inspirational. Use a mix of short, punchy lines and longer storytelling when appropriate.

3. Use Relevant Hashtags

Hashtags increase discoverability. Use ones that are specific to your niche or photo. Avoid generic hashtags with millions of posts or your content will likely get buried - opt for local hashtags if you run a local service business.

4. Post at the Right Time

Timing matters. Use Instagram Insights (available for Business and Creator accounts) to identify when your followers are most active. This increases the chances of your posts getting seen early and performs better overall. In general, the best times to post are morning and evenings, before and after school and work.

5. Cross-Promote Your Content

If you already have a strong presence on another platform like TikTok or YouTube, you can use it to promote your Instagram content. Carrying followers over from one platform to the other is an easier way of boosting your follower count than growing them on the new platform.

6. Engage Authentically

Instagram isn’t just about posting, it's about community. Respond to comments, like and comment on others' posts, and engage with stories. The more you interact, the more visibility you gain.

7. Use Instagram Stories

While posts are important, don't overlook how useful Stories can be for boosting engagement. Stories are a fantastic way to connect casually with your audience. Use polls, questions, stickers, and music to make your stories interactive. You can also highlight them on your profile for long-term visibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I put a post on Instagram?

To put up a post on Instagram:

Open the app and tap the ‘+’ icon (usually at the bottom or top right).
Select a photo or video from your gallery, or take one using your camera.
Tap ‘Next’ to edit and apply filters if you like.
Write your caption, tag people, and add a location if desired.
Tap ‘Share’, and that’s it! Your post is live for your followers to see.

How do you post more than one picture on Instagram?

To post multiple pictures in one post (called a carousel post):

Tap the ‘+’ icon to create a new post.
Tap ‘Select multiple’ (two overlapping squares icon).
Choose up to 10 photos or videos in the order you want them to appear.
Tap ‘Next’ to edit each photo individually or apply a filter to all.
Add your caption, tags, and location, then share your post.

Swipeable posts like this are great for photo dumps.

How do you write a post on Instagram?

Writing a good post means creating a caption that matches your photo or message. Here's how:

After choosing your photo/video, you’ll see a space to write your caption.
You can add text, emojis, hashtags, and mentions (@username).
Want more engagement? Try asking a question or adding a relatable quote.
Keep it short and sweet, or go for a mini story if it fits your style.
When you’re ready, tap ‘Share’ to publish it.

Captions are your chance to express your mood, tell a story, or just have a bit of fun. We've got plenty of helpful caption inspo on our blog!

Posting on Instagram is easy, and we recommend you do it 3-4 times per week. Post on your story daily, and follow our tips to further boost engagement.