My Favorite Apps For Getting Creative on Instagram
I started my time as a ‘grammer in a pretty unintentional way. Most things I do are full of intention, however when this app — one that has become a part of the daily lexicon for people in every one of the dozen or so countries I’ve visited in the last few years — started to take off I was already pretty in love with it.
As a creative director and conscious living blogger who’s written two books on travel, I found the app to be a favorite early. It’s helped me in so many ways: I use it to build moodboards and find inspiration for photoshoots. I consult my travel loving IG friends for ideas about new destinations to visit. I dive deep into rabbit holes to find the best trails at national parks, off the grid glamping sites, roadside motels with a hip aesthetic and so much more. Over time, the app has become a place of true community building for me.
On the flip side, before we get into this I want to start with this: every day I see people getting emotionally tied to how many followers they have, how many likes they’re getting, and trust me - I’ve 1000% been there and let my self-worth get out of whack when the numbers were not where I wanted them to be. Getting that dopamine rush from the likes and comments (yes, there's science saying that's what happens) can make you feel special, but likes and comments don’t necessarily pay the bills and definitely don’t define who you are.
So before we get into my favorite editing tools to make your Instagram totally swoon worthy, you have to make a commitment to me, okay? This is truly my first rule when it comes to Instagram - and it has nothing to do with how to use the app:
Before you open the app, visualize gaining something amazing from the experience. Open it with good vibes only and the second something (or someone) on the app brings you down, either unfollow or close it and don’t re-engage until you can come back with a positive mindset. THE END.
I truly don’t believe you can use the app to grow your business or your brand if it makes you feel bad — at least not very quickly or easily. If there are any triggers firing in your mind when you get on insta, address what that's all about first.
I’m seriously committed to helping others expand their creativity, build confidence, and design the life of their dreams - and I believe Instagram is a killer tool for this!
Instagram is about curating quality images and telling compelling stories. There’s a mix of tools and apps that I consider my go-to’s to make that happen. Read on to get my top 3 apps for editing, designing, hashtagging, etc. Instagram is always changing and there may be some new fancy app that comes out tomorrow - however, these are the essentials that keep me on my ‘gram game now!
Wondered what filters so many of your favorite Instagrammers are using
Look no further, here's a 'grammer favorite: A Color Story.
This app, from my gal pals Elsie and Emma of A Beautiful Mess, is designed by and for bloggers and photographers, and they've considered all the things that someone in a creative field might be looking for in a photo editing app.
There’s upwards of 300 filters designed by other influencers that the app partners with, plus all sorts of cool effects. Wonder how I get those little film scratches or perfect sun flares in the corner of my image? Voila! I personally love the film effects, the light leaks, and I'm always playing with the advanced coloring tools.
This app is built to stack effects, which is unique to A Color Story, plus you can use the app as a grid planner too if you’d like to keep everything in once place.
I feel like this one is my best kept secret.
When I work with clients on brand building this is one of the first apps I talk about. There’s literally library upon library of templates, fonts, graphic packs, and royalty-free photos — plus you can upload your own. There’s editing tools, design lessons, social media ideas, and so much more. I freaking love this app.
Get vintage film, neons and lots of cool flair.
A story-template designing app, Storyluxe is a personal go-to. It includes neons, florals, cute seasonal designs, and — my favorite —kodak, instant, fuji, and ilford film templates.
Storyluxe has plenty of free designs - I’m paying for the upgraded version and find it to be worth it because of the unlimited access to premium templates, and seasonal templates that are added in on the regular.
Want more?
There’s a downloadable guide here with more apps and visual examples of how I create for my page. This guidebook is for you if:
♡ You’re pursuing your own creative endeavors and want to leverage instagram - a free resource! - to grow your community.
♡ You’re at a creative crossroads and want fun, fresh ideas of how to design your page to express your soul!
♡ You’re on a path of saying YES to your creative gifts, and are looking for new ways to share those with the world.
♡ You’re busy, and want quick easy tips on how to create a professional looking page on the fly!
The guide is on sale now! I can’t wait to see what you create! Tag me over on IG to share what you’re up to!
Happy creating,
Andi
