8 Instagram Books for Beginners That Build Confidence

Experts Jodie Cook, Jenn Herman, and Branding by Juls recommend these Instagram books for beginners eager to start strong.

Updated on June 24, 2025
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Every expert in Instagram started exactly where you are now — curious and maybe a bit overwhelmed. Instagram offers a world of possibilities for sharing stories, building brands, and connecting with communities. The beauty of the platform is how accessible it is, inviting you to learn progressively without needing to master everything at once.

Among those who have shaped Instagram learning for beginners are Jodie Cook, founder of JC Social Media, whose clear, rule-based approach helps newcomers build authentic connections; Jenn Herman, co-author of "Instagram For Dummies," who demystifies Instagram’s features with approachable guides; and Branding by Juls, a seasoned brand strategist who breaks down hashtag use into manageable steps for creatives and small businesses.

While these beginner-friendly books provide excellent foundations, readers seeking content tailored to their specific learning pace and goals might consider creating a personalized Instagram book that meets them exactly where they are, ensuring a learning journey built just for you.

Best for foundational Instagram strategies
Jodie Cook is founder of JC Social Media, an award-winning agency serving international brands, celebrities, and small businesses. Recognized by Forbes Europe 30 Under 30 Social Entrepreneurs, she brings deep expertise in social media marketing. Her approachable style breaks down Instagram into manageable rules, making it accessible for newcomers aiming to build their brand or business through the platform.
2020·256 pages·Instagram, Marketing, Social Media, Strategy, Content Creation

Drawing from her experience founding JC Social Media and working with diverse clients from international brands to small businesses, Jodie Cook offers a practical breakdown of Instagram marketing through 125 concise rules. You’ll gain clear insights into creating content strategies, building authentic communities, and engaging with followers effectively, all without being overwhelmed. The book includes examples from notable brands like Ben & Jerry's and Papier, illustrating how to apply these principles in different contexts. This guide suits anyone wanting a straightforward, manageable approach to growing their Instagram presence, especially if you’re starting out or juggling limited time.

Sales & Marketing Book Of The Year, The Business Book Awards 2021
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Branding by Juls is a graphic designer and brand expert with 20+ years of experience helping creative entrepreneurs and small businesses build memorable brands. Her deep understanding of how branding communicates passion and uniqueness fuels this beginner-friendly guide to Instagram hashtags. She breaks down complex branding concepts into practical steps so you can confidently showcase your business story while using hashtags to amplify your reach and engagement.
2020·188 pages·Instagram, Marketing, Strategy, Branding, Social Media

Branding by Juls, drawing on over two decades in graphic design and brand strategy, transforms the often overwhelming world of Instagram hashtags into a clear, manageable tool for creatives and small business owners. You’ll learn not just the mechanics of hashtag use but how to integrate them with a broader brand strategy that defines your unique story and connects with your ideal audience. The book offers practical resources including over 6,300 hashtags, categorized for easy navigation, plus content planners and engagement trackers to help you apply what you learn immediately. This book suits anyone from Instagram novices seeking a foothold to those looking to refine their presence with targeted, brand-aligned tactics.

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Best for personal learning paths
This AI-created book on Instagram Starter Blueprint is tailored to your skill level, interests, and goals. By sharing your background and what you want to focus on, you get a book that explains Instagram basics in a way that feels comfortable and clear for you. It helps you avoid overwhelm by guiding you progressively through important features and techniques at your own pace. This personalized approach makes learning Instagram more approachable and enjoyable, matching exactly where you are starting from.
2025·50-300 pages·Instagram, Instagram Basics, Content Creation, Profile Setup, Stories Usage

This tailored book on Instagram Starter Blueprint offers a step-by-step introduction designed specifically for beginners eager to build confidence in the platform. It explores foundational Instagram concepts and gently guides you through essential features, ensuring the content matches your unique background and learning pace. By focusing on your interests and goals, the book removes overwhelm with clear, targeted explanations that help you progress comfortably from novice to confident user. It reveals practical ways to create engaging posts, understand Stories and Reels, and develop an authentic presence that resonates with your audience. This personalized guide ensures your learning experience is both manageable and rewarding, building skills that suit your individual style.

Tailored Guide
Beginner Confidence
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for complete Instagram beginners
Instagram For Dummies offers a user-friendly entry into the world of Instagram, making it approachable for those just starting out. Its focus on breaking down the app’s latest features, like Reels and Stories, means you get up to speed without confusion or frustration. This guide is tailored for newcomers looking to share photos, engage with friends, or explore content creation without being overwhelmed by technical jargon. It’s a practical companion that helps you find your footing on one of today’s most popular social platforms.
Instagram For Dummies (For Dummies (Computer/Tech)) book cover

by Jenn Herman, Corey Walker, Eric Butow·You?

2022·272 pages·Instagram, Social Media, Content Creation, Reels, Stories

Jenn Herman, Corey Walker, and Eric Butow bring their combined expertise to guide you through Instagram's evolving platform with clarity and ease. This book demystifies the app’s interface and features, from posting your first photo to mastering Reels and Stories, offering practical tips on engagement and customization. You'll find chapters dedicated to creating viral content and leveraging new tools like multiple feeds and story stickers, making it a solid resource for anyone wanting to grow their presence without feeling overwhelmed. Whether you’re sharing casual snapshots or building an audience, this book walks you through Instagram’s landscape in a straightforward manner that beginners will appreciate.

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Best for practical follower growth
This guide stands out as a practical entry point into Instagram marketing, designed to take you from zero followers to a strong online presence with up-to-date strategies including AI-driven content creation. It appeals especially to beginners and entrepreneurs who want a straightforward roadmap without getting lost in jargon. The book breaks down essential steps such as defining your audience, crafting a magnetic profile, and mastering daily content creation, all supported by useful templates and checklists. If you’re aiming to build a vibrant, engaged community on Instagram, this book offers a clear and manageable approach to get you started and grow effectively.
2021·120 pages·Instagram, Influencer, Marketing, Social Media, Content Creation

After analyzing current social media trends and Instagram's evolving features, Harrison H. Philips presents a focused guide tailored specifically for newcomers eager to build a significant presence from scratch. You’ll learn how to define your objectives, craft a compelling profile, and create engaging daily content that resonates with your target audience, with practical tools like a buyer persona template and content planner included. The book's clear explanations of AI-enhanced content creation and promotion tactics demystify the platform’s complexity, making it approachable without overwhelming you. Entrepreneurs and personal brand builders starting their Instagram journey will find this book especially useful for mastering core techniques that fuel follower growth and genuine engagement.

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Best for restaurant owners new to Instagram
Tony Perry has built his career as an internet entrepreneur, founding the successful WebIT21.com and gaining diverse business experience internationally. His practical insights into restaurant marketing stem from hands-on involvement and have culminated in this focused Instagram guide. Perry’s ability to break down social media marketing into simple, actionable steps reflects his commitment to helping restaurant owners who want straightforward solutions. This book offers you the chance to learn from someone who’s been in the trenches and understands how to translate online tactics into real-world customer growth.
2020·113 pages·Instagram, Marketing, Social Media, Customer Acquisition, Hashtag Strategy

What happens when an internet entrepreneur with global business experience tackles Instagram marketing for restaurants? Tony Perry condenses his journey into a clear, accessible guide that demystifies social media for restaurateurs. You learn how to attract local customers, choose effective hashtags, and post compelling photos that resonate with your audience. Specific chapters like page 60 on targeting nearby patrons and page 77 on leveraging local influencers offer concrete tactics you can start applying quickly. This book suits restaurant owners eager to build their presence without getting lost in social media jargon.

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Best for tailored hashtag plans
This custom AI book on Instagram hashtag growth is created based on your skill level and specific goals. By sharing what you want to focus on, your background, and your comfort with Instagram, the book is crafted to match your learning pace perfectly. It guides you through hashtag concepts gradually, helping you build confidence without overwhelm. This tailored approach makes mastering hashtag use approachable and aligned exactly with your needs.
2025·50-300 pages·Instagram, Instagram Basics, Hashtag Selection, Audience Targeting, Content Engagement

This tailored book explores the dynamic world of Instagram hashtags with a focus on your unique background and goals. It covers foundational concepts progressively, making it ideal for learners new to hashtag strategies, while building confidence through a pace that suits your skills. The book reveals how to craft effective, personalized hashtag plans that enhance visibility and engagement on Instagram. By addressing your specific interests and comfort level, it removes overwhelm and offers clear guidance through targeted content. This personalized approach ensures you gain practical knowledge that matches your needs, helping you understand and apply hashtag techniques confidently for sustained Instagram growth.

Tailored Guide
Hashtag Optimization
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for building brand presence
"Tips for Instagram Marketing: Unlocking Your Brand’s Potential One Post at a Time" offers a clear path for newcomers eager to harness Instagram’s marketing potential. This book simplifies the process of setting up a business profile, creating captivating content, and expanding your audience through Stories and Reels. It stands out by breaking down complex marketing tactics into digestible steps, helping you avoid overwhelm as you build your brand presence. Whether crafting your first marketing plan or looking to sharpen your approach, this guide provides the insights and tools necessary to navigate Instagram’s dynamic environment with confidence.
2024·74 pages·Social Media Marketing, Instagram, Marketing, Instagram Marketing, Brand Building

After analyzing numerous Instagram marketing approaches, K. Connors developed this guide to cut through the noise and focus on what really works for brands starting out on the platform. You’ll learn how to craft a strong business profile, create engaging content like Stories and Reels, and build an audience that connects with your brand’s identity. The book breaks down advanced strategies in a way that doesn’t overwhelm, making it a practical choice if you want solid, applicable knowledge without jargon. If you’re new to Instagram marketing or looking to refine your basics with clear examples, this book fits the bill.

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Best for influencer mindset beginners
Justin Monsanto’s "Post Like an Influencer, Grow Like a Marketer" offers a straightforward guide to starting and growing an Instagram page tailored to your passions. The book breaks down complex social media tactics into clear steps, helping newcomers understand how to attract the right followers and craft content that resonates. With chapters dedicated to foundational strategies and practical content advice, this guide is designed for those who want a reliable roadmap to Instagram success without feeling overwhelmed. Whether you’re aiming to build influence or create an income stream, this book provides a solid starting point in the evolving Instagram landscape.
2018·86 pages·Instagram, Marketing, Social Media, Content Creation, Influencer Strategy

What started as a desire to demystify Instagram growth became Justin Monsanto's practical guide for anyone eager to build a following and monetize their presence. You’ll learn how to identify your target audience (Chapter 3), lay a strong content foundation (Chapter 4), and decide whether to create original material or curate it (Chapter 5). The book also dives into why treating Instagram Stories like a personal vlog (Chapter 7) can deepen engagement. If you’re new to Instagram or want a structured approach without jargon, this book helps you master the platform’s signals and social dynamics step by step.

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Emma Jones is an online entrepreneur specializing in marketing and social media who has helped thousands worldwide create thriving online businesses. Her expertise shines through in this beginner-friendly guide that focuses on practical Instagram marketing strategies. She wrote this book to demystify Instagram’s tools like IGTV and Stories, providing clear steps for newcomers to grow their following and boost brand visibility effectively.
2019·37 pages·Instagram, Marketing, Social Media, Instagram Growth, Hashtag Strategy

What happens when an online entrepreneur with a knack for marketing tackles Instagram for business? Emma Jones draws from her experience helping thousands build online ventures to deliver a focused guide that cuts through overwhelm. You’ll learn how to use Instagram’s features like IGTV, Stories, and hashtags to grow your followers strategically, not just randomly posting content. Chapters break down practical steps for creating engaging stories and harnessing hashtags to build brand awareness and drive sales. If you’re new to Instagram or struggling to gain traction, this book offers straightforward methods to kickstart your marketing efforts without jargon or fluff.

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Begin Instagram Learning, Tailored for You

Build confidence with personalized guidance without overwhelming complexity.

Personalized learning path
Focused Instagram strategies
Build skills confidently

Many successful professionals started with these foundations

Instagram Starter Blueprint
Hashtag Mastery Code
Content Creation Formula
Follower Growth System

Conclusion

This collection highlights a few key themes: accessible learning designed specifically for those new to Instagram, practical strategies you can apply immediately, and a steady progression from basics to more confident content creation and engagement. If you're completely new, starting with "Instagram For Dummies )" or "Instagram Rules" will provide a clear and friendly orientation.

For those ready to deepen their skills, books like "Instagram Marketing Secrets" and "Tips for Instagram Marketing" offer practical frameworks to grow your audience thoughtfully. Restaurant owners will find focused advice in "Instagram Secrets for Restaurants," while aspiring influencers can benefit from the step-by-step guidance in "Post Like an Influencer, Grow Like a Marketer."

Alternatively, you can create a personalized Instagram book that fits your exact needs, interests, and goals to create your own personalized learning journey. Building a strong foundation early sets you up for success in the dynamic world of Instagram.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?

Start with "Instagram For Dummies )" for a straightforward introduction that gently walks you through Instagram’s basics without jargon. It's designed for absolute beginners to gain confidence quickly.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to Instagram?

No, these books are specifically chosen for their beginner-friendly approach. For example, "Instagram Rules" breaks down key strategies into manageable steps perfect for newcomers.

What's the best order to read these books?

Begin with foundational books like "Instagram For Dummies )" or "Instagram Rules," then progress to more focused guides such as "Instagram Marketing Secrets" or "Tips for Instagram Marketing" to build skills steadily.

Which book gives the most actionable advice I can use right away?

"Instagram Marketing Secrets" offers clear, practical tips and templates for growing followers and creating engaging content you can apply immediately.

Are any of these books outdated given how fast Instagram changes?

While Instagram evolves quickly, these books focus on core principles and adaptable strategies, making their advice valuable for beginners navigating the platform today.

Can I get a book tailored specifically to my Instagram learning goals?

Yes! While expert books provide great foundations, you can also create a personalized Instagram book tailored to your learning pace, interests, and goals for a customized experience.

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