INSIGHTS



FINE-TUNE THE FEEDS YOU FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM


Following specific feeds on Instagram can benefit your illustration business by providing inspiration, gaining insights into illustration trends, and discovering opportunities for networking and collaboration. 

Written by Nate Padavick

We once asked an art director “How do you discover new illustration talent?” Her response was surprising and eye-opening. She said “I go to the Instagram feed of an illustrator I admire, then I look at the people he or she follows. This usually leads me to a wide variety of illustrators who I might never simply stumble across.”

This dialog prompted us to look more closely at the feeds we follow and tighten up our focus! Below are some types of feeds you might consider following. We did not include too many specific examples because we don’t want us all to dip into the same creative well!

Illustration Leaders and Influencers


Follow accounts of creative leaders, influencers, and experts in the illustration field. They often share valuable insights, tips, and updates about the latest trends. For example, @mrtomfroese.

Competitors and Fellow Freelancers


Keep an eye on what your competitors—other illustrators who work within your niche—and fellow freelancers are doing on Instagram. It can provide valuable insights into their marketing strategies, product launches, and engagement tactics. Start by following a few more fellow IFH Members. The feeds we follow on @illustratorsforhire are all IFH Members!

Previous and Potential Clients


Follow your previous clients to stay connected with them. Follow business that you would like to collaborate with to engage and familiarize yourself with them.

Relevant Publications and Media Outlets


Follow illustration publications, blogs, and media outlets to stay updated on news, trends, and developments in the industry. For example, @uppercasemag.

Creative Agencies and Design Studios


Follow creative agencies and design studios for inspiration on visual content, branding, and creative marketing campaigns. For example, @pentagramdesign.

Hashtags


Follow relevant hashtags related to your niche, or specific topics of interest. This can help you discover new content and connect with like-minded users.

Local Businesses and Partners


Follow local businesses in your area or businesses you collaborate with to stay connected with your community and explore potential partnership opportunities.

User-Generated Content (UGC) Accounts

 
Follow accounts that curate user-generated content related to your industry or niche. This can provide ideas for content creation and showcase how others are engaging with your niche. For example, @theydrawandcook.

Educational Resources


Follow accounts that provide educational content, tips, and tutorials related to your illustration. For example, @iconconference.

Unfollow


While you are taking a critical look at the feeds you follow, consider unfollowing those that are not relevant to your freelance business. Many illustrators maintain a separate private account for personal use.

Conclusion


Remember to engage with the content you follow by liking, commenting, and sharing to build relationships and foster a sense of community on Instagram.
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