Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube… It’s easy to see the downfalls of these applications, and the struggles to succeed on them when so many people are posting. This has caused many creatives to abandon ship and seek out platforms that better suit their needs.
Instagram, once a haven for photographers is now often associated with reposted Tik Tok videos, memes, and promotional posts, rather than beautiful images. So, here are some alternate choices for those seeking a fresh start on a new platform!
Vero
While Instagram disappoints many creatives, Vero promises to step in and keep photography alive. Unlike other platforms, Vero does not compress photos, which means you can show off your work in full resolution. They also claim to be ad-free and algorithm-free and focus on connection rather than becoming addicted to spending time on an app. Instagram’s popularity is a major challenge to overcome, but photographers and musicians have already found Vero to align with their values more than Meta’s platform. For now, Vero has a fairly small user base but that base is passionate about creativity and will happily engage. Notably, high-profile photography influencer Peter McKinnon promoted the app in 2022.
The Dots
Tired of worthless connections and annoying vanity posts on LinkedIn? Then maybe it’s time to try The Dots. This professional networking site is used to find freelance work, but is used primarily for design, creative work, and entrepreneurs. Major companies like Google, Spotify, and Universal have used The Dots to connect with freelancers. It’s not just a job board though – you can still use it to connect and stay up to date with other creatives.
Caffeine.tv
Caffeine is a relative newcomer to the livestreaming scene, but it’s a reasonable alternative to Twitch and YouTube. It was financially backed by 21st Century Fox, so there are some big names behind it. However, with the hype around and the eventual demise of streaming service Mixer, you’d be forgiven for sticking to Twitch. But, with a partner program and monetization opportunities, it may be advantageous to hop on if you feel like Twitch is too saturated. While the platform does have a level of focus on gaming, they also have a huge focus on sports and rap culture with its rap battles called Battle Rap.
Ello
Ello started out as an ad-free Facebook alternative, but since its creation in 2014 it has evolved to be more similar to Pinterest. In 2016, Wired wrote that it had become a place for creatives and artists – so if you are an artist or want to follow artists, it may be time to give Ello a chance. In fact, their tagline is even “The Creators Network”!
NextDoor
Wait, isn’t NextDoor that app for homeowners to complain about cars that have been parked in front of their house for too many days? Well, yes, but it is also a hyper-local social media platform. If you’re a local photographer or small business, you can use this platform to connect with only people who might want to use your services. So get on NextDoor, engage with your neighbors, and get involved in some local conversations.