Manchester’s Instagram stars reveal their most Instagrammable spots
- Written by Susan Griffin
- Last updated 5 years ago
- Fashion & Beauty, People
If you’re lacking Insta inspiration and think your account could do with a little facelift, then take note of the tips from some of Manchester’s most influential Instagram stars.
These style mavens show you how to capture the city – and yourself – in the best possible light.
Megan Ellaby @meganellaby
View this post on Instagram
What are your top tips for getting the perfect Insta pic?
An interesting but not distracting location, a low angle to lengthen everything and lashings of colour.
What should you avoid doing?
I would say don’t copy what everyone else is doing, be unique and find your own style and voice.
Where should people go for a great Insta backdrop?
I love the Northern Quarter as it has some great architecture with every street offering something a little different. There’s a New York feel with the elevated fire escapes.
Do you have any favourite hangouts?
I love Jimmy’s for a quiet drink and to listen to some great music or a fun night out dancing. I’m huge on Ezra & Gil for an incredible brunch and the perfect place to write of an afternoon.
What will people find on your account?
Colourful and clashing outfit ideas and I guess just the life of a normal, fashion and music loving Mancunian girl.
What’s the key to success online?
Just be yourself! Be consistent and be patient.
Emma Campbell @whatemmadid_
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What are your top tips for getting the perfect Insta pic?
Natural lighting is key. No amount of filtering or app-editing will save a photo that’s poorly lit. Try and shoot in the daytime and never use a flash!
What should you avoid doing?
Don’t use filters! They just knock all the natural colours out and change the whole look of the shot.
Where should people go for a great Insta backdrop?
Castlefield is my favourite. You can capture the sophistication of the outdoor drinking and dining scene, the serenity of the river, the old bridges, cobbled pathways and beautiful canal boats.
Do you have any favourite hangouts?
I love Spinningfields because there are so many gorgeous bars and restaurants all in one area. But I’m also a huge fan of the Northern Quarter for vintage and charity shops, live music and tucking into incredible food at independent eateries.
What will people find on your account?
It’s a down-to-earth account. I share the places I visit regularly, the products I’m loving, my typical fashion. I’ll even throw in those awful photos when I’m having a bad skin day!
What’s the key to success online?
Be relatable as possible so that people warm to you and understand your personality. I engage with all my followers – you’ll see I respond to virtually everyone.
Alice Catherine @alicecatherine
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What are your top tips for getting the perfect Insta pic?
Head out at golden hour and play around with the light – it’s like nature’s own filter.
What should you avoid doing?
Planning too much. Just try to relax and be as natural as possible. Be yourself and have fun basically.
Where should people go for a great Insta backdrop?
I love anywhere around the Manchester Art Gallery and Town Hall area as the buildings are really neutral. Head to Northern Quarter if you want more of a grungy, Manchester feel to your pics.
Do you have any favourite hangouts?
I love the Art Gallery, HomeMCR for late night films, and the endless array of cafes in the Northern Quarter. Fig & Sparrow is great for coffee, then walk over to Ezra & Gil for the best breakfast.
What will people find on your account?
I love vintage fashion, interiors, and writing. If you like those things too then it would be nice to have you along for the ride.
What’s the key to success online?
I guess the pivotal things I can pick out from my own experience would be to connect with your audience, offer consistency and be authentic. Authenticity always stands out…
Sophia Rosemary @sophia_rosemary
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What are your top tips for getting the perfect Insta pic?
It’s all about taking photos of things you love, which make you happy and inspire you. Keep it impromptu. I’m never too technical but I’d suggest playing around with new and exciting photography apps.
What should you avoid doing?
Don’t force it! I think there’s nothing more disingenuous than trying to force a great photo and staging an ‘experience’ for Instagram.
Where should people go for a great Insta backdrop?
I think one of the more obvious areas is Northern Quarter. Delve a little deeper to find amazing street art and colourful walls hidden away! I also love taking photos around Castlefield. There’s so many hidden gems and amazing buildings in this area.
Do you have any favourite hangouts?
I spend a lot of time in Ezra & Gil in the Northern Quarter. I love grabbing a window seat and typing away on my laptop. The vibe is so great and the coffee is amazing. Plus, the window seats are perfect for people watching.
What will people find on your account?
I try to keep it natural and tend to do a lot of outfit of the day style snaps. The Sixties and Seventies have massively inspired my style so if you’re a vintage fanatic I’d hope you like my Instagram!
What’s the key to success online?
Just keep creating great content you love. Don’t try and imitate someone else. Your personality is your niche so be proud of that.
Lauren Cokguler @fashion_panic
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What are your top tips for getting the perfect Insta pic?
I don’t really sit and drink coffee with my hair perfect, laughing and looking all ‘candid’ (although I admire the girls that do as that takes dedication!) For me, a daily outfit, simple background and good light are the best things.
What should you avoid doing when taking an Insta pic?
Busy pictures, or pictures with a lot of people in the background can be quite distracting. Day light is a saviour as anything indoors can look quite dark and gloomy.
Where should people go for a great Insta backdrop?
I’m a big fan of King Street and outside Manchester Central Library. I love stone buildings, not only for their architecture, but they also show the nicer, older part of the city!
Do you have any favourite hangouts?
My fave place is Manchester Art Gallery. It’s a stunning building, has amazing exhibitions and the best coffee in the city!
What will people find on your account?
I love fashion – affordable pieces mixed with the odd (saved up for) designer piece. I’m also a big mental health awareness advocate. I suffer from anxiety and document my struggles. We’ve also just bought our first house, so if you like a renovation story, I’m your girl.
What’s the key to success online?
Be yourself – people follow you if they like your style, or your opinions and voice – and never compare yourself to anyone!
- This article was last updated 5 years ago.
- It was first published on 17 October 2018 and is subject to be updated from time to time. Please refresh or return to see the latest version.
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