Why VSCO is Better than Instagram

Processed with VSCO with a6 preset

Dear friend,

A realization: when it comes to mobile apps and platforms, VSCO is a million times better than Instagram. Why? Let me outline some ideas here:

Processed with VSCO with a6 preset

First of all, VSCO has hands-down the best presets. The a6 (Aesthetic 6) is my favorite. It gives the warm Portra 400 film feel. Instagram (and all the other photo editing/filter apps) don’t even come close.

Processed with VSCO with a6 preset

Secondly, VSCO is great for sharing photos, without getting distracted by comments, likes, and follower numbers. This allows for a much more ZEN experience of sharing photos, without the anxiety about how many likes your photos will get.

Processed with VSCO with a6 preset

Third, I think VSCO has a better business model. They’re making a subscription mode (VSCO X) which is more transparent than Instagram/Facebook which fills your feed with advertising, and collects your personal data/behavior/information.

Processed with VSCO with a6 preset

Fourth, VSCO user experience is sublime. Minimalist, beautiful, and buttery smooth. In a world with too much ugly chaos, and distractions, VSCO allows you to focus on post-processing your photos, and empowers you to make NEW photos!

Processed with VSCO with a6 preset

Fifth, VSCO is focused on photography and visual storytelling. Instagram/Facebook are just advertising platforms now. Instagram started off focusing on photographers and taking snapshots of your everyday life, and now Instagram is just this weird competitive platform: who has more followers, likes, and is an advertising/commercial goldmine.

Processed with VSCO with a6 preset

Sixth, VSCO is a damn good and comprehensive creative tool. You can use it to modify and edit your photos with great ease. I prefer the simple UI of VSCO on mobile (when compared to Lightroom Mobile).


Of course this is all just my personal opinion. Please do whatever works for you.

But I can say after I deleted my Instagram, I’m much happier. I’m more focused, more ZEN, less stressed, less anxious, and I’ve been innovating more as a result.

My ultimate takeaway point for you is this:

Delete Instagram from your phone for a month, and just use VSCO instead to share your photos. See at the end of the month whether you’re happier, less stressed, and more creative as a result.

Just download VSCO on your phone (iPhone and Android), and give it a go!

ERIC


JUST SHOOT IT.