How To Create The Most Perfect Photo Dump For Instagram

Photo dumps are all the rage on Instagram lately and I’m gonna give you some tips on how to create the most perfect photo dump carousel for Instagram! Now that Instagram is pushing photo content again, it seems that everyone is inspired to share real, authentic moments form their lives in the form of ‘photo dumps’. It’s safe to say these are now the number one choice when it comes to carousel posts on Instagram. But why are they so popular? Because it allows people to connect with other people by seeing the world through their lens.

When it comes to typical Instagram content, most of the photos we see are highly manufactured. They’re most likely very thoroughly thought out down to the tiniest details, like jewellery, angle, weather, etc. I don’t know anyone who can take one in-the-moment photo and have it turn out good. Like actually good, first try only. If so, we need their tips stat.

Anywho, back to the topic at hand. What I’ve found is that photo dumps allow us to upload what we always wanted to post – before it was cool to do so. Photo dumps allow our creativity shine and be appreciated by others, whilst catching a glimpse into the creators life and experiencing their reality for a short, 2D second. Sure, the natural of ‘photo dumps’ got our of hand and the true meaning of them has lost it’s way a little.

Photo dumps were originally intended for people to share real, unedited moments from their life as a sort of image autobiography. Now, they’re highly manufactured, whilst still allowing a sense of ‘it just happened now and I took this photo’ vibe.

Crafting The Perfect Photo Dump Sequence

There’s no written rule about this, but since people do care about numbers and engagement, here’ what I’ve found does well in photo dump carousels on Instagram.

Remember, aesthetics are key here. Images that have a Pinterest-esque essence about them are bound to do well, so have a browse on Pinterest if image composition isn’t your strong suit. Likewise, ensure you edit your photos minimally too, however photo dumps are typically unedited photos. If you need some help with editing, I have a bunch of preset options that are quite minimal – thought I am. a sucker for lots of grain. Tap HERE for my presets and make sure you download the

1. start with an image of you

An image of you is a great way to grab your audiences attention. I usually find myself scrolling past random, lifestyle images on my feed because I can’t recognise the creator in a split second. So, to ensure the best engagement, start your photo dump with an image of yourself.

This can be a selfie, outfit photo, goofy pic – whatever works for your usual sryle of content. I’d go as far as to say that replicating your usual content here is best. If you’re a fashion blogger who shares fashion images, start with something similar to that. If you’re a beauty blogger, start with a selfie of an interesting makeup look. Don’t deviate too far from yor usual content because then your usuual followers might swipe past your content.

2. something beautiful

This is here to entice your followers to keep scrolling. Whatever seems beautiful to you should go next. Whether that’s a bunch of flowers, someone you love, a sunset, a recent purchase – anything goes really. Bonus points if it’s visually aesthetic.

3. FOOd or drink

Next, share something we all love: food. Maybe you had a delicious brunch, or went out for dinner with friends. Share a table full of meals, or bowl of granola and fruit on your lap. The best photos are the ones that are in the moment, so don’t worry to much about your background. Likewise, a coffee photo never hurts and we all love latte art. Make sure you get a top-down view of your food and coffee!

4. A personality selfie

This time, insert an image of you that shows a more of your personality. Whether that’s yo holding a cup of coffee, or making a goofy face. Showcase who you are so your audience can connect with the version of you behind the scenes. Also, we’re adding another photo again to keep the focus on scrolling through. An image of you will remind the audience who’s content their viewing and it will encourage them to scroll through to the end which will help with engagement.

5. Your ‘wind-down’ outfit

Next, insert an image of a comfy, cozy outfit you love to wear. This can be PJ’s, a bath robe, loungewear, whatever you want. This can be set up however you like. It can be a top down view of you on the sofa, a mirror selfie, whatever works for you.

6. something randomly out of context

Then, add an image from your camera roll that your camera roll that doesn’t make much sense without explaining it. You can link this to your caption by saying something like “iykyk, for number 6… ” and explain the context of this image later in your caption. This is great for getting people to read your caption, something that people often overlook.

7. Something funny

People love funny images and memes, so. why not include your own. You can be as creative as you’d like to be here. It can be a warped image. of something, a funny still of your dog, a face-time moment that you accidentally captured. Let your guard down and let your audience in. Trust me when I say this will help with engagement because people love to feel included. They’ll most likely comment on your post and refer back to this image which helps you create connections with people which boosts your engagement.

8. more nature

Again, people love nature so add in another photo of nature to your photo dump. If you inserted a sunset earlier, opt some something different. Juxtapose your carousel by inserting something close, like a bunch of flowers, or an insect, something opposite will do better in terms of closing up the carousel. Likewise, if you photographed a flower earlier, go big and grand with your second nature image.

9. You again

The last image of you in this carousel should echo the first one, but it shouldn’t be exactly the same. This time, feature a more candid, natural selfie. Maybe it’s a self-care or skincare style selfie showing your more vulnerable side. Maybe it’s you and someone you love sharing a moment together. Whatever. it is, ensure it feels truly authentic to you.

10. Something comforting or cozy

And your final image can replicate the closing on a story or the ending of a day. Think: cosy, heart-warming, comforting. It can be your favourite TV show, movie or your current watch. Or, it could be a image of how you usually end your day, either by cooking, reading, in the bath relaxing. It needs to be comforting to give your audience the ability to relate and feel closer to you through this carousel.

Those were my tips on how to create the most perfect photo dump for Instagram. These aren’t the only ideas to feature, however. You absolutely can create your own version by taking a few of these ideas and adding your own. If you do have some ideas, add them below. I’d love to make a part 2 of ‘How To Create The Most Perfect Photo Dump For Instagram’, so stay tuned for that!