Instagram

Pros

• Effective for brand promotion and showcasing work through video/Reels
• Useful discovery tool for finding local talent and niche producers
• Reliable private messaging and networking capabilities
• Can serve as a simple personal archive for photo storage

Cons

• Aggressive shift away from photography toward short-form video loops
• High volume of ads and influencer-driven content
• Perceived negative impact on mental health and self-esteem
• Inconsistent video upload quality, with some users suspecting higher quality is reserved for large accounts
• Complex, hidden algorithms that make organic reach difficult for new users

Caveats

• The platform's utility for photographers has significantly declined since approximately 2017
• A positive experience often requires very strict curation of followed accounts to avoid 'brain-rotting' content
• Meta's data policies allow for the licensing of posted images, which concerns some creators

Best for

• Short-form video creators and brand marketers
• Users looking to discover local services or specialty hobbyist producers
• Maintaining a curated social network via private messaging

Avoid if

• You are looking for a dedicated, static photography community
• You find algorithmic video feeds draining or harmful to your mental health
• You want to avoid 'influencer' culture and travel overcrowding