As the undisputed image app, Instagram is a juggernaut when it comes to e-fame. It was the first app that allowed regular people to become artsy photographers, and while few will ever rise to the ranks of stardom on the platform, it still hints at a chance for glory if managed correctly.

Create It

Step one is to create your account. But before you do that, you need to know what the account will be for. If it’s going to serve as a digital portfolio, stick to your stage name. Also as a portfolio, be very selective about what you post. If you want to share your modeling potential with the world, it’s a very poor decision to fill your Instagram with pictures of just your pet cat. Understand that this may take some time to narrow down but if you have a vague idea of what you want your focus to be, moving in a certain creative direction will help you amass great shots that naturally evolve into a solid collection of work.

As a final note, be regular with your images. Even if you can only post one a month, that’s still twelve photos in a year. Successful Instagram accounts regularly post, regardless of if they have a creative block.

Manage It

Now that you have a schedule and a theme, it’s time to grow your Instagram. The fastest way to do so is to engage the Instagram community. Interact with those that post comments on your photos. Reach out to fellow Instagram posters and get to know them. See if maybe a collaboration is possible. In short, build a network of both fans and business partners. This will ensure you maintain a community that is constantly growing due to others promoting your account. Once big enough, you may even find yourself inundated with sponsors.