Why hello there you wonderful bunch, I hope you’ve all had a totally wonderful short working week. We’re edging closer to the weekend and quite honestly I don’t believe that yet another weekend is upon us. Like srsly where on earth is my life going?
I thought today, we could just chat? What do you say? Chat about one little thing in particular and not because I want you to tell me what I’m doing is okay, ‘cause I’ve gotta be honest here, I’m really happy with what I’m doing, I want to chat about it ‘cause it’s something I’m struggling with on a personal level rather than a work “business” level if you catch my drift?
Anyway, I digress.
Instagram, oh Instagram- the app we love to hate.
There's been many musings and moaning about the much loved, yet much frustrating app of late and I've not really divulged my opinion on the matter, mainly because it isn't something I take all that seriously and partly because those I have seen moaning, just look a little bit silly to me, in the grand scheme of the world and everything, you know!?
I’ve always been of the nature that if you’re proud of what it is you’re creating and you believe in yourself truly, then success will follow in due course.
And whilst I do believe that in almost every single aspect of my life, since the dreaded Instagram algorithm came into play early last year, I’ve had a little bit of a change of heart.
The vast majority of Instagram users, who use their channels as a part of their business might I add, have seen a difference in engagement, reach and impressions since it all kicked off with the algorithm. Some for the better and some for the worse.
I didn’t really feel that I had been affected by it for the first couple of months, it was simply a case of reassessing the timings in which my images were shared, for example I was dedicated to a 9am post for years until the algorithm came in and mixed it all up a bit.
And whilst, more recently the images I share seem to be a little bit unpredictable in the way in which they perform, it's never really been something I've let bother me too much as I have a truly wonderful community of followers and that has always been my driving force.
One post will reach almost 10,000 likes with almost 80,000 impressions (the total number of times a post is seen) and a reach of 60,000 (the number of unique accounts that saw your post) and I’ll be completely and utterly flabbergasted (what a word) with absolutely no clue as to what was behind it's success (normally a mirror selfie, I have to say.)
Whilst the next image that in my opinion is more aesthetically pleasing, much more colourful, inspiring and thoughtful will be a complete and utter flop. It’s peaks and troughs, swings and roundabout. It is just an app.
We're style bloggers and influencers (hate that word a lot tbf) we're not saving lives here.
It's all well and good me saying that, but with the countless tweets and Insta stories documenting how "nobody is seeing my content" and the constant need to beat the algorithm, with tips and tricks a plenty, it's v hard not to get bogged down by it all in someway of another.
It's only really began to affect me personally in the last few months. And by personally I mean actually affecting my feelings.
TOP- H&M, JEANS- & OTHER STORIES, SHOES- TOPSHOP, SUNGLASSES- GUCCI c/o SUNGLASSES SHOP, EARRINGS- H&M (INSTORE), BAG- PRADA c/o NET-A-PORTER
I work SO hard with my content (heck, doesn’t everyone!?), particularly on Instagram and I like to think my feed shows that. Each and every single image on my feed I am completely proud of, and excited to see how you guys feel about it too.
However, when it comes to creating content, I don’t have a carefully constructed formula for success, I don’t have a theme (thank god, this girls got too many colourful clothes for a theme) and I am yet to work out the reasons for something not performing as well as I had hoped.
Some of the images I choose to share are completely off the cuff and totally in the moment; images taken when I'm feeling my outfit and just so happen to stumble on the PERFECT brightly coloured wall for a quick ootd snap.
But sometimes, and usually when I've got a certain message, an exciting blog post to share or often when I'm working with a brand that I am SO excited about, I tend to plan a little more, up the ante a little more but get little in return thanks to the good ole Instagram algorithm. This is when it gets to me.
I want the work I'm producing to be seen by as many of you wonderful bunch as possible; so when I view the insights and see the reach and impressions that the image has had is almost HALF of what the previous image had, it leaves me feeling totally deflated and somewhat demotivated.
Demotivated as there's literally nothing I can do. It's such a shame, but 'tis what it is.
And whilst I could bore you all by asking you to turn on my notifications (srlsy, don't do that) I've never thought to voice my opinions or complain about it before, however, I do know those who have.
Oh how wonderful it would be if we could all try to not get bogged down by it, I mean practice what you preach ey Megan?
But I believe that the Instagram pressure comes only from ourselves, from looking at others and seeing how each and every image of theirs smashes the predecessor, but to me, these feeds aren't always the feeds that I find inspiring. These are the feeds that can be predictable and not overly considered, and whilst it works wonders for them, it's not something I'm prepared to do.
So despite Instagram not having my back all the time, each and every image I choose to share has come with love and a heck load of work and I'm proud of how both my images and my feed look at the end of every working week.
As long as I'm proud of what I'm putting out there, what does it matter if the image doesn't do as well as expected, something I know is easier said than done but something I am ALWAYS trying to remember.
Targets and goals are the way in which I keep myself motivated, and whilst it's great to aim higher, I'm really championing that we try to not look at others who are nailing it when it comes to likes; but instead look to those whose images are inspiring, thought provoking and down right beautiful and aim for that instead. It's those images that set you apart from the sea of creators and will provide a lasting memory in the long run.
So there we have my little two pence regarding Instagram, I hope that made sense, I basically just typed and typed so do let me know your thoughts on the matter. And with that, I'm going to share some of my favourite Instagram accounts below that inspire me on the reg due to their creativity and all round beautiful feeds, not because of how popular they are. Please let me know if you have any accounts that you think I'd love, let's share the Instagram love, even if Instagram doesn't always love us back.
@shrmikaela | @rossio_style | @lindatol_ | @dylanasuarez | @maryljean | @xeniatheklein | @inthefrow | @littlemagpie_1 | @mirandamakaroff | @helenanderz | @robynmayday
x M
As a 3-year old blogger, though new, I feel what you feel. I take pride in every content I put out but it disappoints me when the content I’m most proud of or have put much work into doesn’t work well as much as the others. Like you said, especially the collaborations. This Instagram change has just pushed me to comment a lot and participate in the community more, but sometimes I feel like such a farce. Am I just doing it for the sake of being seen or because I genuinely like the image they’ve uploaded? *sigh
I’m 4 years old so I hear ya! It’s lovely that you’re engaging more with other content, thats a such a kind thing to do, and if you genuinely like it then you shouldn’t feel like a farce. Spreading the love is what it’s all about! xo
I feel you! I’m not a blogger (although I dabble in YouTube) and my likes are so up and down. Oh instagram you weren’t broken so why did you fix yourself? Hah! If it makes a difference I think the people who like your content will always be there to see it! 🙂 My insta is OrlaghEmily by the way 🙂 x
Ahhh thank you Orlagh, thats so sweet of you 🙂 xx
Hey love. So I discussed this with my computer engineer husband and this is what he says: algorithms are a software solution to a given set of parameters that are conceived as problems. You can’t beat them or trick them as they are one dimensional. For example, if your morning uploads are now decreasing in views, it’s because the algorithm has been set to solve the problem of too much traffic in upload at a given time, by undervaluing that point in time. So too many folks are uploading at 9am and not enough at 10am so the software thins the herd by cutting exposure of random 9am content. Harsh but true and totally arbitrary. Does this help? It may not help how you feel but you need to know you’ve got thousands of loyal readers and viewers, like me, who see you as a friend and stylist. The algorithm issue is hurtful but it’s a commercial tool, release your resentment to those things you cannot fix and take heart in knowing that you’re doing a great job.
Yup, I know all about the algorithm, frustrating but you’re SO right about releasing the resentment on things you cannot fix, thats some bloody good advice and I really appreciate it babe. Thank you gorge and big thanks to your husband too xo
This is so interesting, thanks for sharing Sarah!
I always check your Instagram just in case I’ve missed a post- your captions are just as good as the posts- just a little pick me up for the day I think 🙂 xx
Oh babes you’re the best, thank you! xo
Love the floral top
.http://www.underaytedray.co.uk/2017/08/most-picturesque-spots-in-my-hometown-panasonic-4k-camera.html
Love this post Megan and agree with everything you’re saying! It’s so frustrating and makes it really hard to grow, but I’ve been trying to put more focus into my blog posts than trying to beat an algorithm that can’t really be beaten! I’m always searching out my favourite instagrams (yours included) to share the love x
heart-autumn.co.uk
Thats exactly it, an algorithm that cannot be beaten! Thanks so much for always checking back honey, means a lot xo
I couldn’t agree more with this post! It’s so disheartening to really work on something, to then get little return from Instagram! It’s so frustrating, and I’m trying to teach myself to just post what I love regardless of ‘impressions’! I love your Insta anyway, but will also be checking out the other accounts you’ve recommended 🙂 x
http://www.cocoamay.co.uk
Thanks so much Catherine, I’m glad I’m not the only one to feel a little frustrated with it all. I’m so glad you like my feed and I’m thrilled that you’ll be checking out some of my faves xxo
Instagram really started to get to me a while back (and it still does some days now), but I try to just focus on sharing what I love and like to post, rather than on the numbers and stats as much as I can.
You’re so right that it’s so hard when you put so much time and effort into your content, but a silly algorithm shouldn’t ruin our passion for sharing that content with the world! xxx
It’s up and down ins’t it, but agreed, it’s so hard sometimes. But yeah, watevz, it’s just an app afterall ey? x
Algorithms or not I check your feed daily so I don’t miss posts, your photos are a complete mixture and I absolutely love that. I love that you don’t have a theme, it feels more true to you. Don’t stop what you’re doing! X
Ohhh Alison thank you lovely lady, that means the world! I’m really glad you appreciate what I do over on Instagram xo
I have noticed a lack in engagement since the new algorithm came into town and it’s pretty annoying. I totally agree though, there are more important things to worry about, but sometimes when you take an amazing shot, it can be a little wtf. On another note, these photos are blooming incred!!! xx
Tiffany Tales | Lifestyle & Beauty
Hi Megan,
This was a really great post, good to hear your views on the ol’ ‘gram.
I personally don’t work with brands, I’ve a teeny tiny following in comparison but I love the creative journey that photography has brought me. So yes it’s harder but you’re totally right in what you say in that if you’re happy, your right people will continue to be there and find you (algo or not)
So finally I have one last thing to say. Keep doing you, I only discovered you couple months back and since then I am addicted to your contented, be it YouTube, stories, insta or blog. Why? Because you bring your real self – all your passion, it’s top quality. Plus you’re a manc bird like me ? I’m pretty sure others like me will continue to struggle with the algo but I’m keeping my chin up and creating my content regardless out of love ??
Lots of Love,
Rabya
IG: @sheflourished_
I can totally relate. Sometimes a post will do really well and it leaves you feeling wonderful, and then when you create content similar to that and it tanks, it’s confusing. I do notice that when I post concert photography it doesn’t do as well as personal posts. Hahaha. At times, it really is demotivating when a post doesn’t get that much reach. I love what you said about just putting out content that you’re proud of and that you love! Will definitely keep that in mind every time I post on my feed. Every time I see your posts on Instagram, I always feel inspired & more creative! 🙂
Thanks for being so kind Izzy, that truly means the world! But absolutely, we must always post things we love and we’re proud of, rather than what we know will perform well. Thats when everything gets V boring and samey and I’d much rather have a feed thats a little bit different to the norm than a feed just like everyone elses xo
Saaame. I tried not to let it bother me for ages, but when you work really hard on something and it doesn’t do as well as you hoped (or as well as other things have done in the past) it’s really disheartening – but I think the biggest issue is that you don’t know what you’ve done wrong and how to improve things! I don’t mind making mistakes in life as long as I can use feedback to make things better, but that’s what we’re NOT getting from IG.
I could not agree with you more babe! x
Megan your instagram is probably my number one favourite because I just adore your style. I think I see pretty much all of your posts, as I ‘like’ most of them, but I also click onto your profile occasionally to make sure I haven’t missed any!
I’m not an ‘influencer’ but the algorithm frustrates me because I know I’m missing posts from the creators I’ve chosen to follow. I do wish they would go back to the chronological feed but it looks like the algorithm is here to stay. However, you will always perform well because your content is original and genuine and your personality shines through!
Also the photos in this post are ???
Oh Helen, thank you so much. Your comment has made my day. It’s a frustrating ole thing but something we just have to deal with I guess. It frustrates me no end that I miss so many of my fave accounts too… Damn you instagram x
Megan, I can relate to sooo much of what you’ve said! And your attitude towards things is very healthy and very human at the same time. I understand it is upsetting when we do our best and the bitchy numbers don’t want to reflect it. May they always be the biggest, fattest and highest for you, however, whatever happens, always remember that you are special, precious and unique with thousands of people like me who’d always have your back, even if Insta doesn’t! Thank you for inspiring me every single day, you are probably the only blogging superstar who’s still so sweet, fun, genuine and humble. You being you is the most beautiful you, don’t ever change that <3
As for the accounts I think you may like, check these ones out: @emmlaird & @trineswardrobe I personally find them cool 😉
Lots of love,
Mal x
MAL!!!! Thank you so much for your oh so lovely comment, it truly means the world what you said. It’s made my sunday a whole lot happier indeed. Thank you! And thank you SO much for the account recommendations, I’ve followed both and am OBSESSED! Whats your instagram handle babe? I’d love to follow you too x
Oh my goodness, Megan, now you’ve made my day with this comment (actually, to say you’ve made my week is a bloody understatement, yay!). My instagram handle is @malintothecity and although I’d be freaking delighted to have you as a follower, please, please, don’t feel any pressure to follow me if you don’t feel like my account would be your cup of tea.
Have a great week lovely,
Mal x
I might not go on Insta for few days but when i do intentionally search and click into my fave profiles for outfit inspo or just to see what they’ve been up to. And yours is always top of my list 😉 your content never disappoints!! Xx
Ohhhh babe that means the world! Thank you thank you thank you! x
agreed!
Bladdy love these photos, so colourful and the framing is dreamy! With Instagram, I’ve got to a better place of not caring if an image hits 80 likes or 300 (although 300 for me is a huge boost) because Instagram is driving itself into a hole, and it can be so hard when you work on making your imagery standout or is something you love and they only push it for ads or algorithm benefits – who does that help?! I try to keep up and comment/like when I can but it’s making it a FT job at this rate.
Lauren x
Britton Loves | Cruelty-Free/Vegan Beauty • Lifestyle • Photography
I hear ya babe, it’s so important to try and not get so bogged down with it all and get the app back to why we all love it so much in the first place x
That Prada bag omg I’ll take 10! I love how you’re so positive and so willing to talk about other bloggers. You’re a real boss – I’d say your instagram is my absolute favourite, you’re killing the name and your outfits are ALWAYS on point!! X
https://ainsleylouise.com/
Ohhh Ainsley thank you so much babe, means a lot! xo
Imagine being a newbie blogger with the crazy algorithm. It’s intense! But just know, there are only a handful of people on Instagram I’m totally obsessed with and you’re one of them! Keep being awesome!
I think it’s inevitable for Instagram to affect our actual feelings. As a (very) small blogger / style-grammer (whatever lol), I find it especially frustrating.
I love Instagram. I’ve always loved Instagram so much. But recently, I’ve actually been loathing it because of the way it makes me feel! And it’s actually upsetting me because again, I actually do love Instagram. I know you’ve got to work hard to make it, but it’s difficult to not let it consume your life.
It’s just so hard nowadays for us smaller bloggers to get genuine followers. When you use hashtags, only brands or other bloggers ‘follow for follow’ and immediately unfollow you if you don’t follow them back. So howww?
Omg I’m sorry, why am I writing my own blog post on your blog! Hahaha your post just triggered me to discuss it I guess.
anyway, don’t want to end it on such a negative note, so here are some accounts I personally look at when trying to look for some inspo!
@ayladimitri | @margaret__zhang | @erikabowes | @elxielvina
Hey Megan. I’m not a blogger or anything similar, I’ve just graduated from a law with spanish degree in Northern Ireland. I just wanted to let you know that I stumbled across you on instagram maybe a year ago and have followed you ever since because I’m absolutely obsessed with your eclectic style. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever seen from anyone else, and as someone who’s always loved a quirky item or out-there piece myself, I’ve sometimes been unsure how to style it. That’s where you’ve come in! I know it’s not something I have any experience of, but I think there will be a lot of people like myself, who don’t just wait for your content to pop up on their feed, but actively seek out your profile to see what you’re up to, and if there are any new youtube videos or blogposts. Maybe you don’t need to be so concerned with these algorithms, as like you said, the vast majority of these instagram accounts are just dull and there is no rhyme or rhythm to their following. However I believe the vast majority of your followers are loyal to you because they completely love YOU. And that’s what makes you, and your instagram, different and special.