Factor Instagram ads into your marketing budget if you are planning to use it as an advertising platform.

You’ll need a smartphone or tablet, preferably with a good camera.

While you can access Instagram from a desktop computer, you can’t create a new post from a desktop.

It also isn’t possible to copy/paste text from an Instagram post using your smartphone, so it’s practically useless to include a link in your caption. Currently you can’t add clickable links to your regular posts.A common workaround is to temporarily change your profile link to the URL you want to direct your followers to, such as a new blog post or the link to a page to purchase your newest piece of art. Without this ability, the only place you can add a clickable link is in your profile. This includes the ability to add a direct link to your Instagram story that allows viewers to swipe up to be taken directly to your website. Some of Instagram’s very desirable functionalities are currently restricted to accounts with 10k+ followers.Hashtags are an effective way to attract new followers interested in your exact niche.You can also add extra information about your business to your profile. You can open a regular account, and when you’re ready switch it over to Instagram for Business.When you switch your profile to a business account, Instagram provides you with insights on your stories, posts, and followers.Where Facebook allows for enormous amounts of text, Instagram provides bite-sized and perfectly-square photos. Instagram is great for artists because it is intended specifically for visual media.It can also be a powerful selling tool, provided you find your audience there.

Instagram is not just the domain of impossible yoga poses on mountain peaks and picture-perfect brunch. Ask yourself the questions below to help you narrow down which option will work the best for your art business. But how do you choose which network to focus your energy on? We’ve put together a rundown of the 3 major networks that can be used as selling platforms. The caveat is that each social network is different, and stretching yourself too thin by trying to maintain a presence on every network will equal disappointing results. You’re well aware by now that if you’re selling your art online, you need to have a solid social media presence. Here’s how to choose the right social media selling platform for your art business.

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