Follow an Instagram Account

Ever scrolled through Instagram and stumbled on a profile so good you couldn’t help but wonder why you weren’t already following it? Maybe it’s a friend, a foodie blogger, or a brand dropping the latest trends. Whatever the reason, learning how to follow an Instagram account—and knowing why it matters—is the real game changer. I’ve been on Instagram since the early days, and IMO, following the right accounts is like curating your own personal magazine. Let’s dive in and chat about how to follow an Instagram account, why it’s worth your time, and how to make the most of every follow.

Why You Should Follow an Instagram Account

Think of Instagram as your digital neighborhood. When you follow an Instagram account, you’re basically inviting that creator into your daily scroll. You’re telling the algorithm, “Hey, I want to see more of this!” Here’s why that small tap matters:

  • Stay Updated: You’ll see posts, Reels, and Stories from that account right in your feed. No more missing out on epic content.
  • Show Support: Following is a simple but powerful way to support friends, influencers, and small businesses.
  • Discover More: Instagram notices what you follow and serves up similar accounts you might love.

Cool, right? Following isn’t just about numbers—it’s about shaping your own vibe.

How to Follow an Instagram Account Step by Step

Following is easy, but let’s break it down so even your tech-shy uncle could do it.

From the App

  1. Open Instagram on your phone.
  2. Tap the search icon (the magnifying glass) at the bottom.
  3. Type the username of the person or brand you want to follow.
  4. Tap their profile and hit the big blue Follow button. Done.

From a Browser

  1. Go to instagram.com.
  2. Log in if you haven’t already.
  3. Use the search bar to find the account.
  4. Click Follow right next to their name.

FYI, you can also follow an Instagram account directly from a post or Reel by tapping the three dots or the username and choosing Follow.

Following a Private Instagram Account

Not every profile is open to the world. Some are private, meaning you need approval before seeing their content. Here’s how that works:

  • Tap Follow just like normal.
  • Your request shows as Requested until the person accepts.
  • Once approved, you’ll see their posts and Stories.

Pro tip: If you’re trying to follow an Instagram account that’s private, be patient. No need to spam the button.

Managing the Accounts You Follow

Once you start following, it’s easy to lose track. Here’s how to stay organized.

Check Your Following List

Go to your profile, tap Following, and you’ll see every account you’ve chosen.

Unfollow When Needed

Tastes change. If someone’s posts don’t vibe with you anymore, just tap Following again to unfollow. They won’t get a notification—no drama.

Use Favorites and Close Friends

Instagram lets you mark certain accounts as Favorites, so their posts always appear higher in your feed. You can also add people to a Close Friends list for sharing private Stories.

Why Following Helps Creators and Businesses

When you follow an Instagram account, you’re doing more than filling your feed—you’re giving creators a boost. Instagram’s algorithm rewards engagement, so every follow increases their reach. That’s huge for:

  • Small businesses trying to get discovered.
  • Artists and influencers growing their audience.
  • Community pages spreading awareness.

Your single follow can help someone’s dream project take off. Pretty awesome, right?

Tips to Find the Best Accounts to Follow

Not sure where to start? Here’s how I find gems worth following:

  • Check Explore Page: Instagram’s Explore tab shows trending content based on what you like.
  • Follow Hashtags: Search a hashtag like #TravelGoals or #FoodieLife and tap Follow to see posts using that tag.
  • Look at Recommendations: After you follow an Instagram account, Instagram suggests similar profiles right away.

The more you explore, the better Instagram gets at finding content you’ll love.

Engaging After You Follow an Instagram Account

Following is just the first step. Want to get the most out of your follow?

  • Like and Comment: Interact with posts to stay visible and keep that connection alive.
  • Watch Stories and Reels: Stories disappear in 24 hours—don’t miss them.
  • Share Content: Hit that paper plane icon to share a post with friends or to your own Story.

When you engage, the account’s creator notices. It’s like saying, “I’m here and I dig your work.”

Common Questions About Following

Can people see who I follow?
Yes, unless your profile is private. Anyone can view your following list.

Will someone know if I unfollow them?
They won’t get a notification, but they might notice if they check.

Can I follow too many accounts?
Instagram caps it at 7,500. That’s a lot of scrolling, so you’re probably safe.

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Final Thoughts

Following an Instagram account is more than tapping a button—it’s shaping the world you see every time you open the app. From staying in touch with friends to supporting creators you admire, each follow builds your personal feed. Next time you find a profile that makes you smile or sparks your curiosity, don’t overthink it. Hit Follow, join their journey, and make Instagram a space that truly reflects you. Your feed will thank you later.