I don’t know about you, but one of my favorite social apps is Instagram. I’ve had an Instagram since middle school. I like being able to look at old pictures and posting new ones, and also seeing other’s posts, too.I noticed that when I first had the app, it was a lot more based on photography. There were pictures of food, trees, sunsets, pretty much anything. Although, over time it has become more people based with a lot of selfies and group photos. Not to mention the story feature and all the memes. Instagram has become more than just a photo app. You can basically do everything you’d want. Grow a base, make a show, express yourself, get up to date on news/current events, see concert videos, follow celebrities, cooking videos, and art: the point is you can do a lot. Maybe even too much!
I find myself missing the simplistic app it was before. Most social media platforms have become multiverse. It can become overwhelming, and even annoying. Instagram has lost its artsy vibes as it becomes a more social app. I guess what I mean is, fewer people post about the things they see, and now it’s more about who you’re with. I’m here for it, but I also like to post a lot of what I’m viewing.
This is where VSCO comes in clutch. Number 1, their filters are soo much better than Instagram. Also, there are packs that you can buy that have even more filters. Every once in a while they’ll add more filters for free. These packs are endless and can really help if you’re trying to capture something specific. If you’re really into photography you can pay 19.99 a year and receive/have access to all the packs, filters, aesthetics, and weekly challenges. Or use the free trial, that lasts 7 days, which is useful if you want to try out the special packs/filters.
There’s a lot of tools you can use for your photos as well. They are pretty similar to the edit options on Instagram, so it is not that confusing to navigate. However, it is a different app and concept than Instagram. There is a discover just “for you” option. Instead of it being videos, memes and photos included. VSCO’s discover holds photos that you would probably enjoy based on what you repost and favorite. You can also discover other artists and people.
There is also a feed option, however, this is obviously up to you on who you want to follow. Or even if you want to follow anyone. This is definitely an app you can use for personal photography but you can still find other people through discover.
As for your profile, there’s the images you’ve posted, a collection, and a journal option. The collection is photos that you have liked or “reposted” that you want in one place. The journal allows you to tell a story with your photos and text. Your studio is a place where you can see all the photos you may want to post in the future or have already, things you may be wanting to edit or post.
Another AMAZING feature of the app is there is no follower and following numbers. You can become friends with people but unlike Instagram, the numbers are not on your profile. Basically, it is a very personalized app, with privacy and not based on likes and follows. It’s so refreshing and nice to have on your phone. I’ve had a VSCO, for a few years now and even though I don’t use it as much as other apps; it is good to always go back too. Especially because I like taking pictures of the world around me and finding new ones to discover.