The Value of Social Media

“With the advent of social media, images have become the universal language that people all over the world can connect with. Brands are using images to connect with their users while staying true to their brand. Good photography helps create relationships through digital imagery.“ -CMS Social

What do you plan to do with your photos? Are you displaying them somewhere? Are you printing them regularly? Will they be hanging on your wall? How about posting them on social media and creating a community around them?

Whatever you choose, do something.

Social media comes down to one simple thing: connection.

If you aren’t taking photos to print regularly, it helps to find a way to “use” them. Social media has a lot to offer, even if it’s just for a point of validation, a way to connect instantly with someone you meet, a way of getting your work out there, but most importantly, to socialize. You have the chance to be apart of a virtual community where you can post your photos online to inspire others and be inspired. In short, there are endless opportunities available to you:

• Market research

• Brand awareness

• Lead generation

• Relationship building

• Customer service

• Audience engagement

• Networking

Social networks are all about community. A community relevant to your brand already exists on Instagram. You just have to find them. One way to do that is to engage with people and brands they already follow.

Start by monitoring industry hashtags and commenting on appropriate Instagram posts. Follow the people who participate in these discussions. This is a simple way to make your presence known to people who are likely to be interested in your content.

As you get more involved in Instagram communities, you’ll get a sense of the hashtags that inspire the most response. You’ll quickly learn how to navigate the ins and outs of social media, and find what works for you.

I hope to see you there!