Instagram Trends to Watch in 2021: What’s Hot and What’s Not
As we step into a new year, it’s time to take a closer look at the Instagram trends that are set to dominate our feeds in 2021. With over 1 billion monthly active users, Instagram continues to be a popular platform for sharing photos and videos, and it’s constantly evolving with new features, content formats, and aesthetics. So, let’s explore what’s hot and what’s not for the coming year.
What’s Hot:
1. Reels: Since its launch, Instagram Reels has quickly gained popularity as a creative and engaging way to share short videos. With its extensive editing options, AR effects, and the ability to use audio from other users, Reels has become a go-to feature for many content creators and businesses looking to captivate their audience.
2. Authenticity and Relatability: The days of perfectly curated feeds seem to be fading away. Authenticity and relatability are now highly valued on Instagram. Users are seeking genuine connections and are more likely to engage with content that reflects real-life experiences, vulnerabilities, and stories.
3. Sustainability and Ethical Living: With an increasing focus on sustainability and eco-consciousness, Instagram users are looking for content that aligns with their values. Whether it’s showcasing sustainable fashion, zero-waste lifestyle tips, or eco-friendly products, influencers and brands promoting ethical living will likely gain traction in 2021.
4. Virtual Events and Livestreams: As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to limit in-person gatherings, virtual events and livestreams have become the new norm. From concerts to conferences, workouts to cooking classes, Instagram users are craving interactive experiences that can be enjoyed safely from home.
What’s Not:
1. Fake Influencers and Engagement: With the rise of influencer marketing, there has also been an increase in fake influencers and purchased engagement. Users are becoming more savvy at identifying genuine influencers from those who resort to dishonest tactics. In 2021, authenticity is key, and followers will gravitate towards influencers with meaningful and genuine connections.
2. Inauthentic Engagement Pods: Engagement pods, where users group up to artificially boost their engagement by liking and commenting on each other’s posts, are losing their appeal. Instagram’s algorithm continues to evolve, favoring genuine engagement over artificially inflated numbers. Building a loyal community and fostering real interactions will be more valuable for growth.
3. Excessive Editing and Filters: The era of heavily filtered and overly edited photos may be coming to an end. Instagram users are now appreciating more natural-looking content, favoring minimal retouching and embracing imperfections. The focus is shifting to creating captivating and engaging content with a genuine and relatable touch.
4. Vanity Metrics: The obsession with “likes” seems to be diminishing as Instagram tests hiding public like counts. This shift encourages users to focus on creating content for the sake of sharing and engaging with their audience, rather than seeking validation through numbers. Value-driven conversations and quality content will become more important than ever.
In conclusion, Instagram is constantly evolving, and keeping up with the latest trends can be crucial for individuals and businesses looking to stay relevant. In 2021, we can expect to see a surge in Reels, a rise of authenticity and relatability, a greater focus on sustainability, and an increased demand for virtual events. On the other hand, the reign of fake influencers, engagement pods, excessive editing, and vanity metrics seems to be nearing its end. So, embrace the changes, stay authentic, and get ready to explore new creative possibilities on Instagram’s ever-evolving platform.