Best Tools to Create Professional Instagram Content in 2025
Success on Instagram often involves striking a delicate balance between polished, curated, or professional content and casual, relatable content.
There are so many tools available to help create this content, so we’ve compiled a list of our favorite Instagram tools - both digital and gadgets - to help you create scroll-stopping content that is on brand and trend.
5 Things to Invest in to Grow Your Instagram Following
1. Equipment That Makes Social Media Content Stand Out
Sometimes, the right gear can take your content from DIY to professional in seconds. Even when it comes to behind-the-scenes or more casual content, having the right tools will allow even the less polished content to come across professionally.
Ring Light - For even, flattering lighting (great for Reels, Lives, and product shots). The options with the clip can be great for attaching to your phone, tripod, or for on-the-go shoots.
Adjustable Tripod - For hands-free content, a steady shot, and perfect angles every time. If you create content in your home or studio and on the go, we recommend a larger tripod for home and a portable version for on the go.
Phone Mount with Bluetooth Remote - So you can capture photos and video without needing someone else behind the camera. Game changer for talk-to-the-camera content, OOTD videos, or anything else where you don’t want to edit yourself going in and out of frame.
Backdrop or Clean Content Corner - Simple, consistent background to make your brand stand out. This can be a clean wall space, draped backdrop, or even a desk with a clean background. Good light in this area is a huge plus!
Gimbal - Keep your camera steady, even when you’re on the move. So, if you’re doing tour or walkthrough videos, this will be your best friend.
2. Instagram Content Planning & Strategy Tools
These help map out cohesive, intentional content plans, rather than last-minute scrambling. We recommend creating feed content, reels, and key stories a couple of weeks in advance and then peppering in less curated or behind-the-scenes content daily.
Later or Planoly - Visual content calendar + post scheduling. Find the tool that fits your needs and budget. If you post across multiple platforms, you can manage all scheduling in one place.
Notion - Content calendar templates and campaign planning. Not sure how to build this out? You can purchase templates to help keep you organized. If all else fails, Google Sheets works in a pinch.
Google Drive or Dropbox - Centralized storage for brand assets and content drafts. These make content easy to share if you have someone assisting with editing or content creation.
3. Design & Branding Tools for Professional Instagram Posts
Perfect for creating on-brand visuals, story templates, and carousels - even if you’re not a graphic designer.
Canva Pro - Easy-to-use design platform with templates, brand kits, and resizing options. We love the QR code feature that allows you to download straight to your phone for easy posting.
Pre-built Templates - Not sure about Canva, but want to ensure a cohesive design aesthetic? Have a designer build out Instagram templates for you that you can easily drag and drop content into.
4. Best Video Editing & Instagram Reels Tools
I’m sure you’ve heard that video content is king. So, reels are non-negotiable these days. Here’s how to make them quickly and professionally. Find the editing tool that is easiest for you to use and stick with it!
CapCut - This is a crowd favorite. CapCut makes transitions, text overlays, and trending audio syncing seamless.
InShot - Works well for quick cuts, resizing, and video enhancements.
Splice - Great for editing on your phone and known for its intuitive interface.
5. Photo & Visual Enhancement Apps for Instagram Posts
Photoshop isn’t the only option anymore. Now you can filter and edit images from your phone and even develop presets that allow you to edit your pictures at the touch of a button.
Lightroom Mobile – Create custom presets that give all your images a consistent look and feel, allowing you to produce a cohesive feed with just a touch of a button.
VSCO – Subtle, aesthetic filters perfect for lifestyle brands. Similar to presets, we recommend using the same settings for all of your images for a consistent look.
Investing in the Right Tools for Instagram Content
The right mix of tools can create a truly streamlined content creation experience, while too many tools often fuel overwhelm.
The Boutique COO’s social media managers all recommend starting and learning one or two tools at a time, then expanding your toolkit as your content creation skills develop.
A great place to start is great lighting and a consistent look and feel. 💡🌟
