Which Posts Get More Likes on Instagram? Expert Insights & Proven Strategies
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In the fast-paced world of Instagram, engagement is everything. If you're wondering which posts get more likes, you’re not alone—every brand, influencer, and content creator is looking for the magic formula. The truth? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but after working with hundreds of influencers and businesses in the U.S., I’ve cracked the code on what truly works. Let’s dive into the types of posts that consistently drive high engagement and how you can apply these strategies to your account.
1. Eye-Catching Visuals: The First Step to More Likes
The Instagram algorithm favors visually appealing content. High-resolution images, bold colors, and aesthetically pleasing compositions naturally attract attention. But which posts get more likes in terms of visuals?
From my personal experience managing fashion bloggers and fitness influencers, professionally edited photos always outperform raw, unedited ones. However, authenticity is key in 2025—overly polished images can feel fake. The best approach? A mix of polished content and behind-the-scenes shots that show your personality.
Pro Tip: Use natural lighting, high-quality filters, and balanced compositions to make your posts stand out. Instagram favors bright and engaging visuals over dark and cluttered ones.
2. Faces Win: Why People Engage More With Human-Centric Posts
Ever noticed that selfies and pictures with faces get more likes? That’s not a coincidence. Studies—and my own experience—show that posts featuring human faces receive up to 38% more engagement.
When I worked with a skincare brand, we tested product-only photos versus images with real people using the products. The result? The posts with real users applying the skincare had 2.5x more likes and comments than plain product shots.
Pro Tip: If you’re a brand, encourage user-generated content where customers showcase your product in real life. If you’re an influencer, share selfies, lifestyle shots, and candid moments—these drive more engagement than posed studio shots.
3. Viral Video Content: Short Reels = More Likes
Short-form video content is king. In 2025, Instagram Reels are the go-to format for boosting likes, thanks to their prominence in the algorithm. But which posts get more likes when it comes to video?
Here’s what worked for a fitness influencer I managed: ✅ Quick, engaging tutorials (e.g., “5-Minute Abs Routine”) ✅ Behind-the-scenes content (e.g., “A Day in My Life”) ✅ Trending challenges & viral sounds
One client, a fashion blogger, doubled her average likes simply by repurposing outfit photos into mini Reels with trendy music. The engagement skyrocketed because Instagram actively pushes Reels content.
Pro Tip: Keep your videos short (under 15 seconds for max engagement), use catchy music, and add captions—most users watch without sound.
4. Captions That Spark Engagement = More Likes
Your visuals grab attention, but your captions keep people engaged. The key to which posts get more likes often lies in how well your caption connects with your audience.
A food blogger I worked with used to post beautiful meals but barely got engagement. When we started adding fun, relatable captions like “Pasta is my love language Who else agrees?”, the comments and likes tripled. Why? Because questions and relatable content encourage interaction.
Pro Tip: Use conversational language, ask questions, and add humor or storytelling. Also, use strategic hashtags—but avoid spammy ones like #likeforlike.
5. Timing Matters: The Best Times to Post for More Likes
It’s not just what you post—it’s also when you post. Based on the data I’ve gathered from clients across different industries, the best times to post in the U.S. are:
Morning (7-9 AM): People check their phones first thing in the morning. Lunch Break (12-2 PM): Scrolling during work/school breaks is common. Evening (6-9 PM): Peak engagement when people unwind.
For one U.S. brand, shifting their posting schedule from mid-afternoon to early evening increased their average likes by 40%.
Pro Tip: Test different posting times and analyze your Instagram Insights to see when your audience is most active.
6. Trending Topics & Challenges: Ride the Wave for More Engagement
Jumping on trending topics, viral challenges, and seasonal content is a surefire way to get more likes. But which posts get more likes when it comes to trends?
For a beauty influencer I managed, simply participating in the “Clean Girl Aesthetic” trend boosted her likes by 60%. The key was using trending hashtags and incorporating the aesthetic into her own unique style.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on trending sounds, challenges, and cultural moments. But always put your own spin on trends—don’t just copy what everyone else is doing.
7. Carousel Posts: More Content, More Engagement
Instagram’s algorithm loves content that keeps users on the platform longer. Carousels—posts with multiple images or videos—do exactly that. When someone swipes through your post, it signals to Instagram that the content is valuable, leading to higher reach and more likes.
One of my clients, a travel influencer, started using carousels to share “hidden gem” locations instead of posting single photos. Her engagement doubled because followers spent more time engaging with the content.
Pro Tip: Use the first image to grab attention, then tell a story throughout the carousel. End with a call-to-action like “Save this for later!” to boost engagement.
8. Authenticity Wins: Real Content Gets More Likes
Instagram users in 2025 crave realness. Overly curated feeds feel outdated—authentic, relatable content gets better engagement. But which posts get more likes when it comes to authenticity?
One entrepreneur I worked with used to post only polished brand content, but when she started sharing behind-the-scenes struggles and personal wins, her engagement skyrocketed. People relate to real stories, not just picture-perfect images.
Pro Tip: Share personal experiences, challenges, and behind-the-scenes moments. Your audience connects with you, not just your brand.
Final Thoughts: How to Get More Likes on Your Instagram Posts
So, which posts get more likes? The answer lies in a mix of high-quality visuals, engaging captions, trending content, human connection, and strategic posting times. Whether you're an influencer, business, or casual user, applying these strategies will help you grow your engagement.
Want expert help boosting your Instagram? Our team specializes in growing accounts for influencers, businesses, and brands across the U.S. DM us today to take your Instagram to the next level!
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Instagram likes, Instagram engagement, which posts get more likes, how to get more likes on Instagram, Instagram algorithm 2025, best Instagram posts, Instagram growth tips, Reels engagement, social media marketing, Instagram content strategy
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