I remember downloading the Instagram app in 2011 and becoming instantly obsessed. Even though I had probably five or so friends also using the app, I loved the concept and of course the sweet filters. Over the years Instagram has continued to add features and as we all know the game has been stepped up by professional photographers and the average Joe's who know how to capture the perfect angle. The truth however, is that most of these Instagram stars are not using the app alone. A lot of people use other apps for editing and I would venture to guess most are taking their photos with the built-in camera or a real camera and importing them to post rather than taking their pictures through Instagram.

While I am nowhere near the level of IG stardom, I do like to play around sometimes and try to make my pictures a little more pretty. Here are some of my favorite apps that I like to use in conjunction with Instagram to do just that.

Instasize. Sure, the new iOS has the Square photo setting that gives you that nice square frame to shoot your photos with, but more often than not this means you’re probably losing a lot of the frame you actually want to capture. Enter Instasize. This awesome app lets you take photos or import from your library and size them to fit the Instagram dimensions. This app also provides some editing features including collage templates, filters and borders.

 

PicPlayPost. If you’re a fan of collages, check this out. Not only can you make a collage of photos, but you can mix photos and videos! I’m a fan of using this app to highlight some of my favorite moments from one event, like a concert or a wedding.

PhotoCollage. One of many easy to use photo collage apps, this one lets you create collages from your photo library and edit things like color, margins and corner shapes. Perfect for showing step-by-step meal prep or those classic birthday collages.

Afterlight. Another awesome editing tool, Afterlight lets you take photos or use images from your library to change the lighting, add filters, borders and even shapes.

 

Over. Make your own Pinterest-esque quote photos with this is an easy app that lets you add text to your pictures.

 

Camera+. This is the ultimate editing app. It’s pretty easy to use and has a lot of new features to help save those too bright or too dark photos. I even use this for initial editing and then combine with one of the Instagram filters. All in all, this is a fun one to play around with and can make your phone photos look pro!

 

I’m always on the lookout for stellar Instagram accounts to follow and new apps to try. If you have any recommendations, Tweet me at @c_allodi or follow me on Instagram @cmallodi.