What defines a Bookstagrammer? Exploring the many ways to Bookstagram
In a world where social media has become a major platform for self-expression Bookstagram – the community of book lovers on Instagram – has emerged as a vibrant and diverse space. If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance you’re already part of this community, or perhaps you’re curious about how to dive in.
But what exactly defines a „Bookstagrammer“?
And more importantly, how can one „bookstagram“?
The answer is that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach, there are several ways to be a Bookstagrammer, and the beauty of it is that you can make it your own.
Whether you’re passionate about reading, photography, book reviews, or simply sharing your love for literature in a creative way, Bookstagram allows you to express your literary side in any number of ways. Let’s break it down.
1. The classic reviewer: The heart of Bookstagram
At its core, Bookstagram was born out of a love for books, and many Bookstagrammers focus on sharing their thoughts and opinions through reviews. If you enjoy reading books and discussing them in detail, this might be the option for you.
How it looks:
A typical reviewer will post a photo of the book they’ve read, usually styled beautifully with a nice backdrop – think coffee cups, candles, cozy blankets, or a rustic table. They will then provide a review in the caption: a short summary of the book, what they liked or disliked, and a rating or recommendation. Some reviewers even break down their reviews into specific categories (characters, plot, writing style, etc.).
Why it works:
Review-based Bookstagram accounts are great for connecting with readers who are looking for recommendations or a deeper dive into a book’s content. It’s also an excellent way to keep your reading habits organized, as you can look back at your posts to see which books resonated with you over time.
2. The aesthetic master: Book photography with a creative touch
Some Bookstagrammers aren’t as interested in reviewing books but focus instead on the art of book photography. For these users, the goal is to create visually stunning photos that make books look beautiful, interesting, and captivating.
How it looks:
A photo-based Bookstagrammer will often have an Instagram feed full of vibrant, aesthetically pleasing photos. These might include books arranged in creative flat lays, styled images featuring books alongside other objects (like flowers, plants, or vintage props), or even outdoor shots of books in nature. The beauty of this style is that it’s less about the content of the book and more about showcasing it in a visually appealing way.
Why it works:
Book photography is a great way to engage an audience who might not be actively looking for reviews but simply enjoy the beauty and creativity of book-related images. Many followers are inspired by the artistry behind the photos and may even recreate your setups in their own feeds. Plus, this approach allows you to focus on your personal aesthetic, making your feed unique.
3. The theme curator: Books with a focus
Some Bookstagrammers build their accounts around a specific theme or genre. This could range from books by women authors, graphic novels, fantasy series, or books related to a specific topic like history or mental health.
How it looks:
Instead of posting books haphazardly, theme-based Bookstagrammers center their accounts around a particular niche. For example, someone might create an account dedicated entirely to classic literature, where every post showcases a classic novel with in-depth captions that discuss the author’s style, historical context, or literary significance. Another could focus entirely on Young Adult novels or even books with LGBTQ+ themes.
Why it works:
Thematic accounts attract specific audiences who share a common interest. If someone loves dystopian fiction or feminist literature, they’re more likely to follow a Bookstagram account that aligns with their niche. This can help you build a targeted community of like-minded followers who share your passion.
4. The lifestyle Bookstagrammer: merging books with daily life
A more holistic approach to Bookstagram involves integrating books into your lifestyle and daily activities. These Bookstagrammers will post about their reading habits, daily routines, and other hobbies alongside their books, blending literature with aspects of their everyday lives.
How it looks:
These accounts often show a mix of personal life, book recommendations, and activities that revolve around reading. You might see a photo of a book on a café table, a picture of books at a weekend trip, or an image of a cozy evening spent reading in bed. It’s less formal than reviewing and more casual—making it feel like you’re inviting followers into your life as a book lover.
Why it works:
This lifestyle approach is relatable and personal. Followers feel like they’re getting to know the Bookstagrammer’s life beyond just the books they read. It’s a great way to connect on a deeper level with an audience, giving them a glimpse into how books play a part in your daily life.
5. The bookish blogger: Long-form posts and discussions
Some Bookstagrammers prefer to dive deep into long-form content that encourages discussion around books, reading, or even the book industry. These accounts go beyond short reviews and explore topics like book recommendations for specific moods, book-to-film adaptations, or even literary analysis.
How it looks:
Instead of just a quick caption, these Bookstagrammers write long posts that spark conversation. They might provide in-depth analyses, share their personal experiences related to a book, or encourage their followers to engage in literary debates or share their own reading experiences.
Why it works:
This style is perfect for those who enjoy intellectual conversations and connecting with followers on a deeper level. It provides an opportunity for followers to interact and share their opinions, creating a sense of community and engagement.
6. The book vlogger: Video content with a bookish twist
While Instagram was predominantly a photo-based platform, Bookstagrammers are now incorporating video content into their feeds. This can include book unboxing videos, reading vlogs, book hauls, or short video reviews.
How it looks:
The focus is on creating dynamic content that allows followers to see and hear more about the books being shared. Video reviews or reactions to reading a book, in particular, can create a more personal connection, allowing the Bookstagrammer’s personality to shine through.
Why it works:
Video content allows for greater creativity and engagement with your audience. It also opens up opportunities to create more interactive content like live book discussions or Q&A sessions, making it more likely that followers will engage with your posts.
The freedom of Bookstagram
Ultimately, there’s no one way to be a Bookstagrammer. Whether you’re curating an aesthetic feed, sharing thoughtful reviews, or integrating books into your lifestyle, Bookstagram offers a creative outlet for readers of all kinds. What makes it unique is how you can personalize it to suit your passions and connect with others who share that same love of literature.
So, how do you want to bookstagram? Will you be the aesthetic artist, the reviewer, or the lifestyle influencer? The choice is yours- and that’s what makes Bookstagram such a diverse and magical space.
