As a fashion and lifestyle blogger, Instagram is my primary marketing tool. I work very hard to ensure that my Instagram feed is beautiful, unified, and on-brand. I remember when I first started Instagram, I did find it hard to grow my following and increase the interaction from my audience on content that I post. Then one day, a friend of mine recommended I should look to gain exposure with Buzzoid. I think doing something like this did give me the confidence and tools that I needed to help improve my Instagram feed and successfully build my name as a brand, rather than it just being another account. These are the things that no one tells you about when you start blogging or start social media. Building a social media following is rather difficult, which is why finding the best instagram bots is considered to be an effective method of gaining attention on sites like Instagram. From Instagram Marketing techniques to SEO, there’s so much that we as bloggers have to learn. Dozens of bloggers use an Instagram followers free trial fast service to boost their followers, it’s all about finding what’s right for you and your brand. But I guess that’s why something like blogging never gets boring, as there is always something to learn. One of my “specialties” is the flat lay. It’s so much fun to style and create flat lay photos to share on my Instagram account. I love it so much, that I’ve gotten quite good at it. I get questions on a regular basis from those who follow me, asking for my Instagram flat lay photography tips. I’ve quickly realized that I have far too much to say about the subject for one post, so I’m breaking it down. Today, I’m starting with the basics and sharing my top 10 Instagram flat lay photography tips.
10 instagram flat lay photography tips:
1. Always shoot in natural light
As any photographer will tell you, lighting can make or break a photo. If you’ve ever tried to take a photograph when it’s dark, it’s probable that your photo was a yellowish, blurry mess. Most Instagrammers get their beautiful, bright photos via the power of natural light. Fancy equipment does help control the light, but it’s not a requirement. Keep in mind, depending on the time of day, the type of lighting will differ, but you will always get a better shot with natural light.
2. shoot from above

Source: @dineandfash
When you’re shooting a flat lay, it’s all about the angle. Make sure to hold your phone or camera directly above the items that you’re shooting. This will give you that distinctive 2D look to the final photo.
3.Choose a theme and build upon it
While some of the best flat lay photos may seem random on the surface, the truth is, they’re thoughtfully planned out. The goal is to tell a visual story with the photograph, so pick a theme and stick to it. For example, if the focus of your photo is a casual sweatshirt, it’s not the best time to throw your high heels into the mix. Every element in the frame needs to work together to tell your story.
4. Shoot in square

Source: @shortpresents
By shooting your photograph in square, you’re able to play around with different composition ideas. This makes it a lot easier to experiment with the rule of thirds, and other important photography basics to make your final photograph look Insta-ready!
5. take a ton of photos
Take a ton of pictures. If you think you’ve taken too many, take a few more. Play around with different photo compositions, props, distance from the ground, etc. The more you have to choose from, the better!
6. Check out other instagram accounts for inspiration

Source: @livvylandblog
There is nothing wrong with checking other sources for inspiration, as long as you don’t copy someone else’s exact photo. If there’s certain accounts that you’re always admiring their flat lay photography, try to figure out why and let that inform how you develop your style. When I’m at a loss for inspiration, I also look back at my own feed for ideas.
7. keep props on hand

Source: @chelseaoliviaxo
If you want an excuse to buy another cute notebook, or holiday candle…Instagram is a pretty good one! Sometimes, a photograph needs a little something extra, to give it some more interest and personality. You don’t have to go on one big shopping spree, or even spend a lot of money. Always be on the look out, so you can organically build a collection. That being said, when in doubt, throw in some flowers!
8. use a simple background
You may have noticed, almost all of my flatlays are shot on a white background. The reason I do this is two-fold. First, it makes my feed look and feel unified and on-brand. Second, the simplicity of the white background allows the subject of the photo to shine through. There’s so many gorgeous (and affordable) backdrops that you can use, including white wooden floor backdrops, and faux marble counter backdrops.
9. edit the photos to your liking

Source: @tovogueorbust
Even if you get the perfect lighting and photo composition, one of the crucial Instagram flat lay photography tips I can offer, is to edit your photo before you post it. While I don’t suggest that you go crazy with too much editing, or X-Pro II at 100% intensity, there’s a happy medium. Once you find an editing technique that you like, keep doing it! If you’re getting a lot of likes, people clearly love your feed! If you’re not, why not try to buy automatic Instagram likes. This will help create a unified feed, like Alex of To Vogue or Bust has created. She even shared a tutorial on her Instagram editing process.
10. practice, Practice, Practice!

This photo was posted by me, over 2 years ago!

As a contrast, this photo with similar elements was posted earlier this summer
Like so many things in life, the more you practice, the better you’ll become at Instagram flat lay photography. My older photos make me cringe, but hey – it’s always a work in progress.
I hope you found these Instagram flat lay photography tips helpful! If you have any other questions, leave a comment – I’ll be sharing more tips for Instagram in future posts!
Oh – and don’t forget to follow me on Instagram!
See also: 7 Common Blogging Mistakes to Avoid and Instagram Stories vs. Snapchat Stories for Bloggers and Small Businesses
Gabriella says
Great post. You take amazing flat lays, Jackie.
xx Gabriella
pastelsandpastries.com
Jackie says
Thank you so much! I hope the post was helpful, too 🙂
Rach says
You are definitely the flatly queen and I love it!! Thanks for sharing this Jackie!
http://www.rdsobsessions.com
Jackie says
Awww, thanks Rach!!
Maddy says
these are super helpful. My biggest struggle is finding the right light – at our place it seems like its always uneven. I may just have to get a good backdrop and look like a crazy lady outside haha
xo, Maddy
http://cassidylou.com/
Jackie says
Lighting is always a struggle. I drive myself crazy trying to find the perfect spot…since depending on the season, it changes.
Outside is ALWAYS the best. At least you don’t have to worry about winter 😉
Anjerika says
Love these tips! I’m constantly trying to master the perfect flat lay. I love shooting on marble surfaces, but always seem to have to deal with an annoying glare. (I think I just need more practice!)
Jackie says
It may just be the angle. Have you tried to shoot from a different side of the counter (or whatever you’re shooting on)?
chichi says
ur flatlys are so gorgeous, will def use those tips!
http://www.thestyletune.com
Floortje says
These tips are great dear! And yes, practicing definitely helps to get the best flatlays!
Xx,
|| FLOORTJELOVES ||
http://www.floortjeloves.com
http://www.facebook.com/floortjeloves
Sara Strauss says
Such fantastic tips!! I always, always shoot in natural light! And I save favorite pictures and then see if I can do something similar with my own twist!
~Sara
Brittney says
I’ve always loved your flat lays! I need some marble and white sheets, stat, apparently.
Jackie says
Thank you so much, Brittney! 🙂
Tony Tremblay says
Shooting from above like this is not very easy. Tripod feet are in the way, and it’s difficult to see what the camera is actually shooting.
What height do you put your camera above your subject?
How do you monitor the image before shooting?
Jackie says
I find it’s easier to shoot from above using my iPhone. I don’t have a lens that I like for these types of photos with my DSLR, and my phone seems to work the way I like it.
I choose a different height, depending on how large the subject of the photo is and adjust accordingly. I hope that helps!
Nisha says
Thanks for the tips. You have a lovely blog and tone of voice 🙂
Jackie says
Thank you so much – I hope you found the post helpful 🙂
Emily says
These are such great tips! Thanks for sharing!
Jackie says
You’re welcome! I’m glad you enjoyed the post!
Vee says
This was a great post! Very informative and honest. So relatable, I’m trying to refresh my page and also give my blog a cohesive look. I literally launch it on New Year’s this year so I’m still trying to find my vibe. Best way to do it is to take your on shots! Thanks again ?
Miki says
Super useful post, thank you for sharing!!
Miki x
http://www.littletasteofbeauty.com