Why You Should Delete Your Instagram
First and foremost, we don’t want to build our platform on quicksand. All social media sites are bound to become outdated, and people will always move on to the next big thing. When you rely on Instagram, you’re building your work on a foundation that is bound to shift.
Focus on Your Own Vision
In terms of street photography, we should focus more on our own vision and not be influenced by the opinions or work of others. When you don’t post work to Instagram, you can ensure you stay grounded and true to your beliefs and values as a photographer—without the judgment of others.
“Good photography takes a lot of time… It’s not that important to promote your work on there.”
Since deleting my Instagram, I’ve become liberated and free—able to create without the need for validation or likes.
Advertisements Are the Big Problem
Instagram constantly pushes ads in front of you. They try to sell you a lifestyle, beauty products, camera gear—whatever they believe will make you “better.” But that’s all it is: an illusion. The platform is more about pushing products than celebrating creativity.
Ultimately, Instagram’s existence is about offering you quick entertainment in exchange for your attention.
Trends Are Boring
When you use Instagram, you’re bound to be bombarded by all sorts of lame trends. The endless swipe and scroll culture keeps you connected to whatever everyone else is doing. But this habit dulls your creativity. Staying so tuned into others is detrimental to the creative process.
“Disconnect from the mainstream and create your own stream.”
Good photography isn’t about chasing trends. It’s about finding your own voice and perspective. Trends will come and go, but your vision is what will last.
Don’t Be an Insta Slave
What is an Insta Slave? Insta Slaves are essentially digital sharecroppers. They borrow land and put their work up on a foreign entity. Why should we rely on Instagram, a platform we don’t own, to display our art?
“Don’t allow Instagram to be your owner. Own yourself and your own domain.”
Why not just create your own website? Tell people to google your name and find you that way. Take ownership of your creative space.
Escape the Digital Ghetto
“Instagram has to be the worst way to display our art.”
If you’re serious about pushing the boundaries of what your work can be, delete your Instagram and create your own space. It’s time to own your corner of the internet.
Escape the digital ghetto
- Delete your Instagram
- Create your domain using bluehost.com
- Start building on WordPress.org
- Install Astra theme
Own Your Memories
Since leaving Instagram, I’ve become more drawn to platforms like YouTube. It allows me to cherish my memories without the pressures of likes and comments. I can come back and look at my videos when I’m older, appreciating them for what they are. Using the GoPro as a raw and candid tool helps me flesh out thoughts and record moments authentically.
“At the end of the day, you’re doing this for yourself. Just delete your Instagram if you really want to be on top of things.”
It’s time to move away from being an Insta Slave and step into true creative freedom. Focus on your vision, escape the trap of trends, and build something that you own. Your art deserves more than the swipe culture of Instagram.