Maximising Instagram’s Latest Updates: 20-Frame Carousels, Fonts, Animations, and Effects in 2024
Instagram's 2024 update offers creators new tools like 20-frame carousels, fresh fonts, and fun animations. These features help you tell longer stories, enhance visuals, and boost engagement. Discover how to make the most of these updates to captivate your audience and elevate your content!
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Whenever there’s a new social media update, it’s like the latest season of your favourite show airing – you can’t wait to find out if it’s going to be the perfect twist that takes the story to the next level or just a plotline you’d rather skip.
With 2 billion users glued to Instagram monthly, its 2024 update is more of a binge-worthy hit than a filler episode, leaving everyone asking, “Where’s my update?!”
We’re just as excited as you, so let’s dive into what Instagram’s 2024 update has brought to creators and how you can make it work wonders for your account.
What’s New on Instagram?
For a while, it felt like Instagram was stuck in neutral, with Threads stealing most of Meta’s attention. But Instagram has come back in style by unleashing very exciting updates:
- 20-frame carousel
- Fresh fonts
- Captivating animations and effects
Let’s see what these features are all about!
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Sign Up NowA 20-Frame Carousel for Uninterrupted Storytelling
Picture a TV series that drops the entire season at once – no more waiting, just hours of pure enjoyment and plot development. Instagram’s new 20-frame carousel is exactly like that! You can finally showcase your adventures, tutorials, or product lines without holding back.
Whether you’re documenting a weekend getaway or launching a new product, this extended format keeps your audience swiping. And the cherry on top? When the content hits just right, people will check out your profile for even more.
Here’s how to keep your audience hooked:
- Quality over quantity: If your story doesn’t need 20 frames, don’t force it. A concise narrative always beats filler content.
- Diversity is key: Mix in videos, screenshots (a Spotify song that fits the scene?), full-body shots, and close-ups to add depth to your carousel.
- Visual appeal: Make sure every frame is visually on point. Consistent colour schemes, high-quality images, and a well-thought-out layout are a must.
One creator nailing this approach is @jesskidding_, whose vibrant carousel is packed with diverse angles and captivating colours. Seriously, it’s hard to swipe through and not visit her full profile!
Here are some ideas for creators out there:
What should you include in your next trip highlight?
- Landmarks,
- Local dishes and table setup,
- Any cultural experiences,
- A selfie or a full body shot,
- Friends,
- Apartment details,
- Video from the car,
- Local shops and markets,
- Scenic views or sunsets,
- Travel essentials details,
- Interaction with locals, and so on.
As a beauty blogger creating a makeup look, consider including the following elements to make your post impactful and detailed for your audience:
- Final makeup look
- Product details
- Skincare details
- Product reviews
- Before and after shots
- Tips and tricks
- Tutorials
- Behind-the-scenes shots
- Hair care and styling
- Product combinations
- Favourites
Colourful, detailed images are just one way to build your Instagram presence – but hold on, there’s more!
Fresh Fonts, Text Animations & Effects for Reels and Stories That Stand Out
The right fonts can instantly show your style and make a memorable first impression. These small details can have a big impact.
Here’s a breakdown of the new fonts:
- Signature: A semi-cursive script for a personal touch.
- Editor: Retro vibes for the creators embracing nostalgia.
- Bubble: Fun, playful, and full of energy.
- Poster: Bold serif font, perfect for big announcements.
- Deco: Art Deco-inspired for those feeling a bit fancy.
And the new text animations and effects? They’re just as exciting:
- Sparkle (effect): Add a little magic with some sparkle.
- Shimmer (effect): Catch your audience’s attention with a shining, shimmering text.
- Pop (animation): For when you’ve got news that’s ready to pop!
- Pixelation (effect): Retro charm with a pixelated effect.
- Jump (animation): Ideal for dynamic announcements.
- Neon (effect): Another retro throwback, this one screams, “Look at me!”
Adding these fonts, animations, and effects is super simple:
- Hit the “+” button to add a story or reel.
- Choose your images and/or videos.
- Type “Aa” to start writing, and select the font or animation you want.
With these features enhancing your content, you’re just scratching the surface of what Instagram’s latest update can do.
Add Value to Your Posts with Overlay Text and Image
Say goodbye to the old days of painstakingly crafting images in third-party apps! Instagram now lets you layer text and images directly onto your posts – essentially creating collages on the spot. By layering your content with text and images, you’re bringing an extra dimension and giving your persona major personality points.
Add text and images when you want to highlight key messages or features, provide more context, promote events or sales, or add visual interest - images or text that will look aesthetically pleasing.
How to do it? Easy:
- Click the “+” button to create a new post.
- Select your images and/or videos, then click next.
- Click on the gallery icon on top to add images, or click “Aa” to add text – or go all out and do both!
Boosting Engagement with Instagram’s New Features
Think about your favourite TV episode. It hooks you immediately, keeps you invested with great story development, surprises you with jaw-dropping twists, and leaves you with a satisfying conclusion that makes you want more. Content should be all about that - creating engaging experiences.
Here are a few things you can do to engage your audience while making the most of the new updates:
- Polls and Quizzes: Engage your audience with interactive content.
- Q&A Sessions: Address questions directly to connect with your followers.
- Relatable Memes: Share content that resonates with your audience’s experiences.
- Favourite Quotes and Poems: Add value with inspiring or thought-provoking content.
- Valuable Information: Provide tips or insights that benefit your audience.
- Giveaways: Encourage participation with exciting offers.
Pro tip! To add even more value and emotion to your posts, consider incorporating music. Just like a well-chosen soundtrack sets the tone of an emotional scene in a TV series, the right music can perfectly set the mood for your posts. It helps convey the message and atmosphere you want to share with your followers. Find the ideal track to complement your visuals, and you'll see how it can elevate your content instantly.
Embrace these updates, and start crafting content that leaves your audience eagerly awaiting the next episode in your creative journey.
