Disclosure: I’m a proud Adobe Creative Cloud Express Ambassador, which means I’m compensated for promoting Creative Cloud Express in my content, including affiliate links in this blog post.

Last week I had the distinct pleasure of going live on Adobe Creative Cloud Express’ new YouTube channel—not once, not twice, but three times in a row!

There were so many exciting ideas, tips, and templates flying around in my conversation with host Kladi from Printmysoul that I thought I should compile them into one post. So here it is.

When it comes to ways of leveling up your Instagram strategy and aesthetic, Creative Cloud Express has got you covered.

Way #1: Keep your designs clean and simple.

This feels like the right place to start because it’s temping to get fussy and intricate with your visual brand on Instagram, but with that comes a whole lotta time to create, which you probably don’t have. That’s why I say to keep your designs clean and simple.

On social media platforms like Instagram, your content has a smaller lifespan. For example, an Instagram feed post might grab the attention of my followers for a few days maximum, and yet, thousands of people are still watching this YouTube video from over a year ago. Therefore, budget your time accordingly and keep content creation easy for yourself.

Watch: Design Clean and Simple Instagram Graphics

In my first stream of the week, I demonstrated how this simple Instagram post—one of my top performers of the last few months—was inspired by a blog post about Instagram limits that I read and found interesting. Best of all, by keeping the visuals simple, it only took me about ten or so minutes to create.

Free template: To kickstart your content creation in Creative Cloud Express, I prepared this set of clean and simple graphic Instagram feed templates.

Way #2: Add media on screen during your Instagram Live broadcast.

A lot of people don’t realize this is possible, which is why it excites me so much! Instead of just broadcasting your own camera during an Instagram Live, you can share media from your camera roll on-screen for your viewers to see. Your camera is positioned smaller in the top right, while the image from your camera roll is displayed on the screen. I explain in more detail (with an example) in the stream below.

Watch: How to an Instagram Live Graphic

The best comparison I can make is a Powerpoint or Keynote presentation in the middle of an Instagram Live. It’s so much more visual and, particularly for solo presenters, helpful to have a visual reference for what you’re sharing—stories, tips, or whatever else.

Free template: To make your life easier, I created a template in Creative Cloud Express to navigate the quirks of sharing media on-screen from camera roll. For example, this template will show you where to put your content, and where to avoid putting it (so it doesn’t get covered by your camera or the comments).

Way #3: Create better graphics to accompany Instagram Stickers.

It’s no secret that Instagram Stickers are the best way to boost engagement in your stories. It’s a built-in way to allow people to participate in your story by providing real-time feedback through polls, quizzes, questions, and so much more. However, keep in mind that Instagram users are becoming extra savvy. They expect high-quality images and designs, which is where Creative Cloud Express comes in. Watch me design a few Instagram Story slides below to complement Stickers.

Watch: Make your Instagram Stories Pop

I’m such a big believer in many of Creative Cloud Express’ built-in features—many even accessible on their free plan—including access to free Adobe Stock images! The Adobe Stock royalty-free photo collection has millions of on-trend and seasonal images that you can integrate right into your design.

So there you go! Those streams and tips should keep you busy for a while. If you’re new to Adobe Creative Cloud Express, you can access it here. I’m a big fan and I think you will be, too.