If you’re wondering ‘what is Instagram?‘, then we’re here to help. The social media platform has changed quite a bit over the years, and if you haven’t used it since your last latte art or cat picture post, then we’re here to explain exactly what you can expect from the photo-sharing app.
If you’re looking for a deeper dive on this popular social media platform, we explain how to delete Instagram comments and how to download Instagram in the first place. Then, once you’re fully caught up, check out our guides on the godfather of social media apps by learning how to download Facebook, and answering the question of what is Facebook?
Here’s everything you need to answer the question ‘what is Instagram?’

What is Instagram?
Instagram has been around the block and is a long-standing pillar in the social media arena. It launched all the way back in October of 2010, and so with 15 years in the game, it’s changed from the original photo-sharing based landscape. Facebook has statuses, and Reddit has discussion forums, but Instagram is where you head for aesthetics. Its main focus is, as you’d expect, on photos, stories, and reels.
To post an image on Instagram, head into the app and press the plus sign in the top right corner. From there, select ‘post’, then choose the image or video you want to share and follow the instructions that follow. You can add a caption, tags, and filters to your images as you please.
What is Instagram Reels?
Instagram reels are the platform’s take on TikTok, offering you a chance to make short-form video content. These can range from dances to recipe ideas, with lots of different types out there for you to take inspiration from.
If you’re unsure how to create a reel, then never fear, because the process is pretty simple. You just need to open up your Instagram app and press the plus sign in the top right corner. This will bring up the new post menu, where you can either snap a quick picture and share it right away, or upload a previously saved file. But from this menu, you just need to select the ‘reel’ option and then select whatever media you want to pop in there. You can also edit the footage you have directly in the app, and include a bunch of filters and stickers to make it fun.
What is Instagram shop?
Similar to the TikTok shop, Instagram shop is an online marketplace where you can buy and sell pretty much anything you like. You scroll through the wares on offer in the same grid formation as your profile, and then just tap on the image of whatever takes your fancy.
Is Instagram free?
Yes, Instagram is free, though you do need to pay a price if you have a business account and want to promote your posts. If that’s the case, the costs are entirely separate, as Instagram doesn’t have subscriptions or memberships.
Can I recover a deleted Instagram account?
To put it simply, no, you can’t recover a delete Instagram account. You need to be absolutely sure if you remove your account, as there’s no way back, meaning you permanently lose your posts, pictures, followers, and everything. You can always create a new account, but you need to start from the bottom.
There ya go, friends. What is Instagram? Well, now you know. For more, check out our what is Paramount Plus, what is Spotify, and what is Apple Arcade guides.