6 apps to take your Instagram game to the next level
We’ve all been there: Your photo has been up for over 48 minutes and it turns out people don’t think it’s as “like” worthy as you thought. Was it the Kelvin filter? Should’ve gone with Hudson, or maybe Sutro. But c’mon, how are you supposed to showcase your phone-photo-taking abilities with Instagram’s limited number of filters? It’s not possible! Luckily, there’s a whole world of photo-editing awesomeness outside of Instagram. Sometimes, to achieve your very best photo editing ever, you need to think outside the app.
The thing is, when you venture into the post-Instagram photo-editing world, you realize there are a TON of options. It can actually be a little overwhelming. That’s why I’ve put together a list of 6 apps that will take your Instagram game and editing creativity to the next level. Trust me: The possibilities are endless!
1. VSCO Cam
Available: iOS, Android
Cost: Free
Wonder how your friend makes every photo look straight out of a beautifully themed Tumblr feed? VSCO Cam is her secret. Along with awesome filters, VSCO Cam allows you to adjust the brightness, temperature, and contrast. Turning your photo from “phone quality” to fab!
2. Pic Stitch
Available: iOS
Cost: Free
We’re so proud of you for going on a hike, we really are. But do we really need to see twelve photos of it? Your shoes, your fanny pack, the VS water bottle, the view…I mean, c’mon! Download Pic Stitch and put all of your favorite photos into one! The app allows you to quickly combine photos into one, and with over 200 layouts you can really get creative with it. It’s a new, trendier form of scrapbooking!
3. Afterlight
Available: iOS, Android
Cost: $0.99
With 74 unique filters, 78 natural textures, and 128 frames, Afterlight allows you to customize your photo any way you want! Oh, and in case you were wondering, this is the app all the cool kids are using to add a white background to their photos and make them fit in the IG frame. You’re welcome.
4. Facetune false
Available: iOS, Android
Cost: $3.99
Yes, $3.99 is pricey for a photo app, but this one is like Photoshop in a phone. It will let you do professional-level photo editing on the go, meaning the sky (like the perfectly-filter sunset sky) is the limit.
5. Studio
Available: iOS, Android
Cost: FREE
Studio is more of a design app than an editing one. It allows you to add super creative and unique layers to your photos, such as phrases and stickers, to make the perfect piece of inspiration. Or you can make your own and save your design to inspire others. It’s easy and fun to use, but most importantly — it’s free!
6. LINE camera
Available: iOS, Android
Cost: FREE
LINE camera might just be the cutest editing app around. Pick from over 1000 stamps or create your own from your own pics. Think about the possibilities, you can stamp yourself next to every Ryan Gosling photo—genius! The app also offers a number of filters and super cute frames.
