An important element in the Instagram world is the use of hashtags – originally known as the number sign (#). Hashtags allow users to be creative and are limitless to what can be hashtagged or the amount of hashtags used for one caption (however there is a 2200 character limit per post). Hashtags have more meaning than just a couple words being added to a post. On Instagram there is something known as a trending hashtag. Trending hashtags occur when that specific hashtag is used more than usual. According to the Instagram engineering blog there are three elements make it a good trend;
1) The Popularity – attract people in the community
2) Novelty – something new and exciting
3) Timeliness – happens as the event is taking place
A perfect example are the northern lights. In the photo posted at the bottom, it is evident that there was a substantial spike with several users discussing, posting and hashtagging at the time of the event. Once the event was over, there was just as quick as a drop about this spectacular natural occasion.
Not only can hashtags be trending, Instagram also groups hashtags together in similar trends – in order to cater towards each and every user. There are three ways that Instagram decides to group hashtags
1) Co-Occurrences – typically used together
- E.g. #fashionweek #dress #shoes
2) Different Spellings – don’t co-occur, generally not used in same post
- E.g. #VanentineDay #Valentinesday
3) Topic Distribution – describing the same event
- E.g. #HoCo2k15 #Hoco2015 #HomeComing2015
Hashtags are quite fascinating because they are able reach an audience generally interested in the same topic. The more hashtags used in a post, the more likely it will reach a greater audience and therefore more people are likely to engage. However, with that being said do not hashtag every little detail or overhashtag. Anything more than 9 hashtags is considered spam and is asking for too much attention. All in all, use them - don’t abuse them!
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