Today, I’m going to walk you through the process of making your Instagram feed look more professional. Whether you’re a brand trying to maintain a specific look or an individual seeking consistency, these steps will help you create a cohesive and captivating Instagram feed.
I’ve worked with various industries, from startups and local businesses to large global companies, and I’ve learned a lot about the importance of a well-curated Instagram presence. Let’s dive in!
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Our 7 Proven Steps to Design a Professional Instagram Feed (Wish I Knew This Sooner!)
My team and I follow the same procedure in designing visually appealing and engaging content for our clients’ Instagram and Facebook feeds. We also work with a graphic designer whose expertise is in social media design to ensure quality and coherence of design to branding.
Step 1: Find Your References
To begin, you need to find at least three reference points from your competitors. This can easily be done by searching industry-related keywords or searching on Pinterest.
It’s crucial to look at these feeds to understand the type of designs that appeal to you and your audience. Even if the designs aren’t directly related to your industry, they can still inspire a unique look for your feed.
For example, if you run a travel agency, search for “travel Instagram feed” to see relevant designs. Utilize platforms like Pinterest or Google.
Step 2: Align with Brand Guidelines
After gathering your references, compare them with your client’s brand guidelines. Ensure that the chosen designs align with the brand messaging and tone of voice.
While it’s important to draw inspiration from competitors, always prioritize your brand’s unique identity. This alignment helps maintain consistency and avoids potential legal issues related to copying.
Step 3: Consult with a Graphic Designer
Next, discuss your references and brand guidelines with a professional graphic designer. It’s always good practice to ask your client beforehand for past design templates, if available, and specify the number of variations needed for each format (e.g., Reels, carousel posts, static posts). During this consultation, address any design issues and provide detailed explanations of how you intend to use these templates.
Step 4: Review the First Drafts
After the graphic designer creates the first draft of the design templates, it’s time to review them. Check the size and placement of all elements to ensure they do not conflict with the brand guidelines or tone of voice. Verify that every detail is accurate and that the design meets your expectations.
Step 5: Finalize the Design
After reviewing and providing feedback, the graphic designer is ready to work on final edits. Ensure that everything aligns perfectly with the brand guidelines and vision.
Step 6: Get Client Confirmation
With the designs completed, it’s time to send them over to the client for approval. Make sure they are satisfied with the designs and that the templates adhere to their brand messages and tone of voice.
This step is crucial for maintaining a collaborative approach and ensuring that the client’s vision is accurately represented.
Step 7: Implement and Utilize Templates
With the final designs approved, it’s time to implement them into your content creation process. Use these templates to streamline the creation of your Instagram posts, whether they are carousel posts, static images, or Reels. Having predesigned templates will save you time and ensure a cohesive look across all your content.
Bonus Tips for Professional Instagram Feed Design
- Bright and Engaging Colors: Utilizing bright colors can catch the eye and favorably influence Instagram’s algorithm. Avoid overly dark or busy designs that may overwhelm your audience.
- Authenticity Matters: Strive for an authentic look. Take inspiration from brands like Chipotle or Duolingo, which successfully combine authenticity with appealing design.
- Marketing Strategy Integration: A well-designed Instagram feed is not just about aesthetics; it’s also about effective marketing. Consider hiring a marketing professional to integrate marketing strategies that complement your visual content and ensure alignment with your brand’s overall goals.
Designing a professional Instagram feed involves careful planning, creativity, and strategic thinking. With these 7 steps, you can create a visually appealing and cohesive Instagram feed that not only captures attention but also aligns with your brand’s identity and marketing strategies. Remember, the key is consistency, creativity, and authenticity.
If you’re a business or freelancer and find this process overwhelming, consider hiring a marketing professional and a graphic designer to assist you. They can ensure your designs are top-notch and save you a great deal of time and effort in the long run.
My team and I are also more than happy to help you with your marketing needs! Fill up the request form and we’ll get to you shortly.
Catch you guys later, and happy Instagram designing!
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Hyein
I’m an award-winning global marketing expert running HY Marketing in South Korea. We help businesses succeed in South Korea, Japan, and English-speaking markets through social media and Facebook ads.
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