So, you thought Instagram was just an app, right? Wrong! It’s now a family of four apps (yes, four), all dedicated to recording those special moments, all committed to keeping it fresh, instant and engaging. But it can be a bit confusing to know which one to use when. Thank goodness we’re here – we’ve put together a quick guide to the different apps just for you.

The new apps released by Instagram can work wonders for your business. They can be incorporated into your social media because they can allow you to post better content to Instagram that is potentially more appealing and can hopefully prompt more engagement. Assuming you’ve already got Instagram, the other 3 apps are Layout, Hyperlapse and Boomerang. Here’s the lowdown:

Layout is great for sharing multiple images at once. It can be used to make collages, with a choice of different layouts, in order to share more than one image at once. We love using layout when showcasing products, a new range or event photos. It’s easy to use, means photos can be well presented, and really emphasises the ‘online catalogue’ element of Instagram for brands. If you’re always wishing you could share just one more photo, Layout is for you.

Hyperlapse allows you to create awesome timelapse videos without the costly price tag.

The new app can be used to show a process that regularly happens in your business. An artist? Show us how your work is made. Event planner? Let’s see the venue transform. Working in construction? Bring that building work to life. Timelapse videos always get good engagement – and for good reason: they’re a fascinating way of speeding up a process and telling a story at the same time. If your work involves a process and you want to show off your craft, technique, skill or dedication then Hyperlapse is for you. Just don’t forget, it’s 15 seconds max for Instagram!
Boomerang is all about GIFs, ie. videos that loop. This is the latest addition to the portfolio of Instagram’s apps, and it’s perfect for capturing those little moments that work well on repeat. This app can be used to show a quirky part of your business such as a product feature that is a unique selling point of that product. Whether it’s unique product features or simply some goofing around in the workplace, GIFs can be expressive, fast and funny little bites of content – experimentation advised!

By Harpreet Bal & Kate Tyler