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It’s official: carousels are having a moment. Here are five creative ways your brand can use them (that aren’t a photo dump).
In the dynamic world of social media, Instagram continues to evolve, offering innovative features to keep users engaged. One such feature that has gained significant traction is the carousel post.
What is a carousel post?
An Instagram carousel allows users to share multiple photos or videos—up to 20 slides—in a single post that followers can swipe through. This format provides a versatile way to convey more information, tell a story, or showcase a collection of related visuals without overwhelming your audience with separate posts.
Why are carousels thriving on Instagram in 2025?
As of 2025, carousel posts have become a cornerstone of effective Instagram strategies. Here’s why:
- Enhanced Engagement: Carousels encourage users to spend more time on a post as they swipe through the slides, leading to higher engagement rates. According to recent data, carousel posts have an average engagement rate of 10.15%, surpassing that of regular photo and video posts.
- Algorithmic Favorability: Instagram’s algorithm prioritizes content that retains user attention. The interactive nature of carousels signals to the algorithm that users are engaging deeply with the content, potentially boosting the post’s visibility on followers’ feeds.
- Versatility in Storytelling: With the 2024 update allowing up to 20 slides per carousel, brands have more space to craft comprehensive narratives, showcase product ranges, or provide detailed tutorials within a single post.
Given these advantages, it’s clear that carousels are more than just a trend—they're a powerful tool for brands to connect with their audience. Below are six creative ways to leverage carousel posts that go beyond the typical photo dump.
1. ‘Which product is right for me’ flowchart
Best for: Any business with a variety of products or services on offer
Remember those engaging flowcharts in teen magazines that guided you to your ideal lipstick shade or perfect vacation spot? Bring that interactive experience to your Instagram audience by creating a swipeable flowchart. Here’s how:
- Slide 1: Pose a compelling question to hook your audience, such as, “Looking for your perfect skincare match?”
- Slides 2-5: Present a series of questions that help narrow down options (e.g., “What’s your skin type?” with corresponding answers to swipe through).
- Slides 6-7: At the end of each ‘trail’, showcase the recommended product with a brief description and benefits.
- Final slide: Include a clear call-to-action, directing users to learn more or make a purchase.
This interactive approach not only engages users but also simplifies their decision-making process, making them more likely to convert.
2. Before/after transformation showcases
Best for: Brands in the business of makeovers—think salons, cleaning, or renovation services.
Instead of a simple side-by-side comparison, stretch the reveal across multiple slides. Start with a dramatic ‘before’ shot, then swipe through the process—whether it’s a fresh haircut taking shape, a messy house getting decluttered, or a room being renovated.
- Slide 1: A striking “before” image to hook users.
- Slides 2-5: Progress shots showing the transformation step by step.
- Final slide: The big reveal, complete with a call-to-action like “Save this for inspo!” or “Book your own transformation today.”
This format builds anticipation and keeps users engaged until the very last slide.
3. Myth vs. fact
Best for: Educational brands, wellness, finance, or marketing professionals.
There’s so much misinformation online—why not clear some up in a fun, swipeable way? Start with a bold statement on the first slide, something like “You should post on social media every day.” The next slide? A dramatic “MYTH!” followed by the real explanation. Repeat this structure for multiple myths, keeping each reveal snappy and visual.
- Slide 1: A common industry myth.
- Slide 2: A bold “MYTH!” slide to make users pause.
- Slides 3-5: Explain why it’s incorrect and provide the correct information.
- Final slide: Encourage engagement by asking users to comment which myth most surprised them.
Bonus points for adding data or expert-backed insights to build trust with your audience.
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4. Swipe-to-spot-the-difference
Best for: Brands with strong visuals—like fashion, home decor, or graphic design studios.
Turn your carousel into a fun, interactive challenge. Start with an image on the first slide, then tweak small details across the next few slides. Maybe it’s a dress with a subtle pattern change, a room with tiny decor swaps, or a social media post with improved design choices.
- Slide 1: Original image.
- Slides 2-4: Slightly altered versions with small changes.
- Final slide: Reveal the differences and encourage users to comment how many they spotted.
This gamification element boosts engagement and keeps users swiping to the end.
5. Step-by-step mini tutorials
Best for: DIY brands, fitness, beauty, or tech companies.
Instead of cramming instructions into a single post or a Reel that makes uses pause, break them down across multiple slides in an easy-to-follow sequence. Whether it’s a recipe, a makeup tutorial, or a workout routine, carousels let you guide users through the process one step at a time.
- Slide 1: Eye-catching title like “How to Create the Perfect Flat Lay.”
- Slides 2-6: Show each step visually with a short caption.
- Final Slide: The finished result and a CTA like “Try this out and tag us!”
This keeps users swiping, absorbing each step at their own pace.
Final thoughts
Instagram carousels are more than just a way to share extra photos—they’re an opportunity to create interactive, engaging experiences that keep your audience swiping. Whether you’re helping users find the right product, busting myths, or making them play a game, these strategies can set your brand apart.