9 best photography Instagram accounts to follow in 2025

Q: How to do photography for Instagram?

Taking captivating photos for Instagram requires a combination of technical skills, creative vision and understanding of the platform's audience preferences. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you excel in Instagram photography: Master the basics of photography:Learn about exposure, composition, lighting and different camera settings to capture high-quality images. Find your niche:Identify a specific style or subject matter that resonates with you, and consistently produce content that aligns with your niche. Edit your photos wisely:Use editing tools to enhance your photos without overdoing it. Maintain a consistent editing style to create a recognizable aesthetic. Utilize natural light:Whenever possible, shoot in natural light for a more flattering and authentic look. Experiment with different times of the day to capture different lighting effects. Pay attention to composition:Use the rule of thirds, leading lines and other compositional techniques to create visually balanced and engaging images. Tell a story with your photos:Use your photos to convey a narrative or evoke emotions in your viewers. Create a cohesive feed by maintaining a consistent theme and style. Engage with your audience:Respond to comments, answer questions and participate in relevant conversations to build a community around your photography. Experiment and have fun:Don't be afraid to try new things, experiment with different techniques, and push your creative boundaries.

Q: How much do Instagram photographers make?

Instagram photographers can earn income through various avenues, including: Brand partnerships:Collaborating with brands to create sponsored posts or product placements. Selling prints or merchandise:Offering high-quality prints, digital downloads or branded merchandise to your followers. Teaching or workshops:Sharing your knowledge and expertise through online courses, workshops or mentorship programs. Licensing images:Licensing your photos to businesses for use in their marketing materials or websites. The amount an Instagram photographer can make depends on their engagement level, audience size, niche and marketing strategies. Top-tier photographers can earn thousands of dollars per post, while others can generate income through multiple streams.

Q: How do I get my photography noticed on Instagram?

To increase your visibility and attract a larger audience on Instagram, consider these strategies: Optimize your profile:Use a clear and professional profile picture and bio, and include relevant keywords to make your profile searchable. Post consistently:Maintain a consistent posting schedule to keep your audience engaged and increase your chances of appearing in their feeds. Use relevant hashtags:Research and use relevant hashtags to categorize your photos and make them discoverable by potential viewers interested in your niche. Engage with other photographers:Follow other photographers, like and comment on their posts, and participate in relevant communities to build connections and expand your reach. Collaborate with other creators:Partner with other photographers or influencers for cross-promotion and reach a wider audience. Run contests or giveaways:Host engaging contests or giveaways to generate excitement, attract new followers and boost your engagement. Promote your Instagram on other platforms:Share your Instagram links on your website, blog, social media profiles and other online platforms to drive traffic to your Instagram page.

Rachel Bistricer
3 days ago
6 min read

Updated: 12 hours ago

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As Robert Mapplethorpe once said: "The more pictures you see, the better you are as a photographer." For media creators, inspiration is as important as the air we breathe. It's the force behind every creative project, from the moment you come up with an idea for a new series to the final click that publishes the results on your photography website.

Nowadays, browsing and learning from the work of others is much easier than it was for Mapplethorpe. An endless sea of inspiration is right at your fingertips, if only you know where to find it. These outstanding photography Instagram accounts will not only nurture your creativity, but also allow you to view the world from an entirely new perspective.

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9 best photography Instagram accounts to follow

Hannes Becker
Chris Burkard
David Guttenfelder
Theron Humphrey
Laura Muthesius and Nora Eisermann
Paul Nicklen
Ami Vitale
Emilie Ristevski
Mario Testino

01. Hannes Becker

When it comes to reaching out to brands as a photographer, few do it as well as talented outdoor photographer, Hannes Becker. Take a look at his breathtaking Instagram photography account and see how paid partnerships can lead to amazing projects.

02. Chris Burkard

Millions of users consider Chris Burkard one of the best photographers on Instagram. In addition to enjoying incredibly beautiful landscape photos, you’ll be able to tag along on his (somewhat crazy) adventures - from the freezing waves of Iceland to the warm skies of the Utah desert.

03. David Guttenfelder

Photojournalism is one of the most valued photography careers, playing a huge role in society since the 1850s. The incredible photography Instagram account of the National Geographic Explorer, David Guttenfelder, will help you stay up to date on recent events, as you learn how to capture static images that tell touching, meaningful stories.

David Guttenfelder photography instagram

04. Theron Humphrey

The best creative photography ideas are those that allow you to develop your skills while having fun. And what could be more fun than capturing the adventures of your adorable four-legged best friend, just like photographer Theron Humphrey, and sharing them with the world?

05. Laura Muthesius and Nora Eisermann

Food plays a central role in social relationships and even religious practices within most cultures across the globe. The exceptional Instagram photographers at Our Food Stories capture food photography that goes beyond the meals themselves, instead presenting the full story surrounding them.

06. Paul Nicklen

In recent years, using media content to fight environmental and social issues has become one of the biggest photography trends. The stunning nature and wildlife photos captured by photographer slash marine biologist, Paul Nicklen, will teach you why using photography to support a cause is so important and how you can join the movement.

07. Ami Vitale

The Instagram Stories and posts of World Press Photo Award winner, Ami Vitale, will give you a glimpse of all the hard work that goes into capturing powerful photos that leave a lifelong mark.

08. Emilie Ristevski

Over the last couple years outdoor photographers have taken Instagram by storm. The warm view of the world Emilie Ristevski offers feels like a breath of fresh air delivered straight to your fingertips.

09. Mario Testino

If you’re looking for a fashion and beauty photography portfolio that balances aesthetics with a unique approach and remarkable stories, look no further. Widely considered one of the best photographers on Instagram, Mario Testino’s work has also been featured internationally in magazines such as Vogue, Vanity Fair and GQ.

Getting started posting on Instagram as a photographer

Starting your photography journey on Instagram is an exciting opportunity! With a clear marketing strategy, strong personal branding, and polished photo editing, you can create a lasting impression and stand out. First, define your niche and style—what sets your photography apart? Whether it’s portraiture, landscapes, or food photography, consistency in your visual style and editing will help establish your brand identity.

A solid understanding of how to edit images for social media is essential to ensure your images stand out. Use editing tools to enhance colors, adjust lighting, and maintain a cohesive aesthetic across your feed. Pay attention to Instagram’s preferred dimensions and resolutions to keep your photos looking sharp and professional.

A well-thought-out marketing strategy is also key. Utilize relevant hashtags tailored to your niche, engage consistently with your audience through comments and direct messages, and collaborate with other creators to expand your reach. Don’t forget to use Instagram Stories and Reels to showcase behind-the-scenes content, adding a personal touch to your profile.

Social media templates, such as those offered by platforms like Wixel, can elevate your Instagram feed by providing polished, professional graphic designs for posts and stories. These templates ensure your branding remains cohesive and visually appealing, while saving time on content creation.

Discover techniques to level up your editing game and create visuals that wow every time:

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Instagram photography FAQ

Is Instagram worth it for photography?

Instagram is a powerful platform for photographers to showcase their work, connect with potential clients and build a loyal following. It offers a vast audience, easy accessibility and various tools to promote your photography.

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