Instagram Has Changed Professional Photography -- Forever

With over one billion active monthly users, it’s safe to say that Instagram is one of the most popular smartphone apps. Taking the internet by storm, Instagram has remapped how many industries approach advertising and marketing. Edward Tomasso discusses how the app has shaken up his own industry of photography.

Instagram is arguably the most popular smartphone app out there. More than just a creative social network, Instagram is helping many people launch careers in brand new industries. The age of Influencer Marketing is in full force. But launching a career on Instagram is about more than just taking on brand deals and sponsorships. According to freelance photographer, Edward Tomasso, Instagram has revolutionized the photography industry most of all -- for better, or for worse.

Instagram User, meet Photography! 
Edward Tomasso

At the most basic level, Instagram is introducing people to the world of photography. With the internet in full swing long before Instagram launched, digital photography was already on the map. But in many ways, Instagram makes taking up photography more accessible than ever before. More than just a place to upload photos, Instagram also offers users opportunities for exposure. In fact, many photographers are being directly discovered on Instagram! At the very least, the app allows newcomers to directly engage with an expanding audience. This offers users opportunities for feedback in real time.

A Live, Working Portfolio

Every serious freelance photographer knows that a well-groomed portfolio is paramount in securing paying gigs. While having a website as a dedicated portfolio is important, Instagram is a fantastic space for a secondary portfolio. The exposure element (thanks to user engagement and interaction!) makes Instagram the perfect fit for a hobbyist or newcomer’s portfolio. But no matter how experienced you may be, Instagram offers incredible opportunities for discovery -- which also means more paying gigs!

Edward Tomasso is one of many working freelance photographers who got their start on Instagram. Initially using the platform to document his international travels, the app introduced Tomasso to what would become his full-time career. As someone who directly benefited from this connection, Tomasso welcomes anyone who falls in love with photography as a result of using the app!

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