Welcome to a fresh chapter with Instagram in the new year! 🍾
Prepare yourself, as Instagram is expected to undergo significant changes in the upcoming year.
This year is all about creator-driven content, the rise of AI tools, and the resurgence of live streaming.
And that's just the beginning.
Eager to stay ahead in the game? Scroll down to discover 15 Instagram marketing trends that our Velvet Studios team anticipates will be influential in 2024.
Following Adam Mosseri's announcement that all video posts will be transformed into Reels, Instagram has shown a heightened focus on this format.
In 2023, we witnessed the introduction of innovative editing features, templates, and enhanced analytics. Given the stiff competition from platforms like TikTok and YouTube, Instagram is likely to further enhance Reels in 2024, possibly with extended video duration limits.
For those aiming to integrate more short-form videos into their Instagram strategies, 2024 presents an ideal opportunity.
Despite its initial success and recent feature enhancements, Threads has seen a significant drop in usage, leaving its future in limbo. While it had the potential to be the next big thing (comparable to Twitter), it's likely to continue its search for a solid footing in 2024.
Our suggestion? Experiment with Threads, but don't commit fully just yet.
AI had a standout year in 2023, both in the tech world and on Instagram, and it's poised to gain even more traction in 2024.
Will we see more developments like Meta’s AI personas, or will there be a focus on AI-driven content creation tools? Time will tell.
A robust Instagram SEO strategy is key for increasing visibility on the platform.
Considering Instagram's developments in 2023, such as the new 'For You' feed, we expect more opportunities for creators and brands to gain exposure in 2024. Now's the time to enhance your Instagram SEO expertise.
With features like posts for Close Friends and Broadcast Channels, more creators are expected to prioritize their existing audience in 2024, resulting in exclusive content and newsletter launches.
This trend suggests a shift towards deeper engagement and a stronger sense of community. Brands should consider ways to engage with these close-knit groups in 2024.
The link in your bio is more crucial than ever, and influencers and brands are expected to utilize bio link tools extensively.
For influencers, a centralized location for all their important links is essential, ranging from affiliate programs to newsletters. For brands, these tools will be vital for driving website traffic and conversions.
Our tip: Utilize Linkin.bio by Later to create a free landing page with unlimited button links and a clickable Instagram feed.
In 2024, Instagram is predicted to increase its financial incentives for influencers, making brand partnerships and affiliate marketing on the app more streamlined. Features like Collabs, the Creator Marketplace, and affiliate tools will be crucial for influencers to engage with brands, showcase products, and earn commissions.
The photo dump trend continues its dominance.
Creators are increasingly opting for authentic, in-the-moment content through carousel posts over curated feeds. This approach is gaining popularity for its genuine appeal.
The takeaway for 2024: Embrace authenticity for maximum engagement.
Is Instagram Live poised for a resurgence in 2024? We think so.
With Instagram Live Producer, users can now incorporate additional cameras, external microphones, and graphics, paving the way for more sophisticated streams, including gaming and live music. Will Instagram be able to compete with platforms like Twitch and YouTube? That's yet to be seen.
Note: Instagram Live Producer is currently desktop-only.
Creators are the trendsetters on Instagram, and more brands are expected to draw inspiration from their storytelling techniques in 2024, whether it's through photo dumps or Reels with trending music.
"We'll see brands mimic creators' filming and posting styles, leading to content that feels more organic and less promotional," says Christine Colling, Later's Social Media Manager.
Brands and businesses should watch the creator community closely, and creators should continue leading the way.
In 2024, the term "feed" will take on a new meaning on Instagram.
We anticipate a surge in food-related content on the platform this year, a trend already noticeable on TikTok. Alessandro Bogliari, CEO of The Influencer Marketing Factory, reports a 30% increase in demand for food content creators.
Get ready for a feast of content!
The #UgcCreator hashtag is gaining momentum on Instagram, signifying the rise of UGC (user-generated content) creators.
Unlike traditional UGC, where content is organically created by a brand's followers, UGC creators produce paid content that resembles organic posts.
"UGC creators face less pressure to engage their own audience, making it a cost-effective strategy for brands to gain more authentic content," notes Lindsay Ashcraft, Later’s Social Content Lead.
In 2024, expect to see brands increasingly leveraging this type of creator for more authentic content that drives sales and traffic.
Memes have always been a hit, but video memes are the new frontier in 2024.
Video memes offer a more dynamic and engaging format than static memes, allowing jokes to be more elaborate and stories more detailed. This also keeps audiences engaged longer, waiting for the next relatable moment.
With Instagram scaling back some e-commerce tools, brands are likely to increase their investment in boosted content in 2024.
While not a new strategy, boosting content is an effective way to expand reach, enhance visibility, and drive engagement and conversions.
We foresee a rise in brand "personalities" on the app in 2024, with social media managers or hired creators becoming the "face" of brands.
The aim is to build a stronger community, foster engagement, and humanize the brand. At Velvet Studios, a member of our social team periodically shares key insights on trending social media topics through Instagram Stories, providing an informal, engaging, and personable approach.
And there you have it — 15 Instagram marketing trends for 2024 from Velvet Studios.
As Instagram continues to evolve, staying on top of these trends will help you succeed in trying new tactics.
Which trend are you planning to experiment with this year? Let us know!