Remember when Instagram was all about the perfect sunset shot with a great filter? Well, don’t sweat it anymore, because the winds of change are blowing through the ‘gram.
In 2024, authenticity is the new deal. Users crave genuine connection, relatable content, and a break from the curated perfection that once dominated their feeds. This shift in Instagram trends impacts everything from the types of content that thrive to how brands and influencers build relationships.
7 Notable Instagram Trends Shaping 2024 (and How to Leverage Them)
Are you ready to embrace the new wave of Instagram trends? Here are seven trends to take note of;
1. The Rise of Authentic Content
This Instagram trend is all about ditching the pretence. The rise of mental health awareness and body positivity movements have fueled a desire for authenticity online. Users are tired of comparing themselves to unattainable ideals and are seeking content that reflects their own lives.
Consequently, you can now forget those meticulously staged photoshoots and perfectly polished selfies. Even reposting unoriginal content will no longer count for you. Instagram users are increasingly seeking out content that feels real, raw, and relatable. Think grainy film photos, candid videos, and posts that showcase the imperfect beauty of everyday life.
How Brands Can Adapt: Embrace “lo-fi” aesthetics, share behind-the-scenes glimpses of your business, and showcase user-generated content (UGC) that highlights your products or services in action. This humanizes your brand and fosters trust.
2. Niche Communities are Thriving
Remember those high school clubs where everyone shared a hyper-specific obsession? That’s what micro-communities are like on Instagram, and it’s one of the fastest-growing Instagram trends. People are flocking to smaller, niche communities focused on their specific interests, from vintage sneakers to rare houseplants. These communities offer a sense of belonging and connection that’s hard to find on a massive platform like Instagram.
How Brands Can Benefit: If your product or service caters to a niche, Instagram is the perfect place to build a loyal following. Create content that speaks directly to their interests, use relevant hashtags, and engage in conversations within these communities to stay on top of emerging Instagram trends.
3. Short-Form Video Dominance
The rise of TikTok has made one thing abundantly clear: short-form video is here to stay. And on Instagram, that means Reels. Instagram is heavily prioritizing Reels in the algorithm, making it more likely to show up on the Explore page and reach a wider audience.
The quick, snackable format of Reels is highly engaging, capturing attention in a fast-paced scrolling environment. From tutorials and product demos to fun challenges and behind-the-scenes glimpses, the creative possibilities are endless.
How Brands Can Benefit: Invest time in mastering Reels. Experiment with different formats, editing styles, and music to find what resonates best with your audience. This is a key Instagram trend to capitalize on.
4. Augmented Reality (AR) Filters
Instagram story AR filters have graduated from silly dog ears to sophisticated tools for brand engagement. Users can virtually try on their makeup, clothing, or accessories with AR filters, making it easier to visualize a purchase. Create branded filters that transport users to another world or let them play games related to your product.
How Brands Can Benefit: This Instagram trend is all about interactivity. Encourage users to create their content using your filter, increasing brand awareness and engagement.
5. Social Commerce
In 2024, Instagram is no longer just a place to discover products; it’s a place to buy them. This represents a significant shift in Instagram trends, with shopping becoming more integrated into the user experience.
How Brands Can Benefit
- Seamless Shopping: Features like shoppable posts and Stories allow you to tag products directly in your content, making it easy for users to purchase without leaving the app.
- Streamlined Checkout: Instagram Checkout enables customers to complete their purchases directly within the app, reducing friction in the buying process.
- Interactive Selling: Live Shopping is an emerging Instagram trend, offering interactive live streams where you can showcase products and interact with potential buyers in real-time.
6. Micro-Influencer Marketing
While big-name influencers still have their place, the tide is shifting towards micro-influencers in the ever-changing Instagram trends landscape. Micro-influencers often have smaller followings, but their niche expertise and genuine connection with their audience can lead to higher engagement and conversion rates.
Partnering with micro-influencers is often more budget-friendly, making it accessible to brands of all sizes. Instead of one-off campaigns, brands can focus on building genuine, long-term relationships with influencers who align with your brand values.
7. Transparency & Social Responsibility
Modern consumers care about more than just your products. They want to know what your brand stands for. This is a major trend shaping consumer expectations on Instagram.
How Brands Can Benefit: Share your company’s mission, sustainability initiatives, or involvement in social causes. Show the human side of your brand through employee spotlights, behind-the-scenes videos, and stories that highlight your company culture. Don’t just preach about your values; live them. Be transparent and accountable in your social media communication.
Out with the Old, In with the New
The Instagram of 2024 is pulsating with authenticity, community spirit, and cutting-edge technology. To thrive, brands must be nimble, adaptable, and willing to embrace the new ways users interact with the platform.
By prioritizing genuine connection, tapping into the power of niche communities, and experimenting with creative formats like Reels and AR filters, you can build a thriving Instagram presence that resonates with your audience and propels your brand forward.
Ready to Ride the Wave of Instagram Trends in 2024?
At GrowTally, we help brands manage their social media affairs and thrive despite the constantly changing space. Our team of experts can help you develop a customized Instagram strategy that leverages these trends.Â
Contact us today for a personalized consultation and let us help you make 2024 your most successful year on Instagram!
