Instagram Influencer Spotlight On: Stephanie Huff @thepinkbackpackblog

1) Tell us a little about yourself. What are you doing now and where do you come from?

Hi, my name is Steph and I’m a Canadian PhD student and blogger. This year I decided to venture into the online world of blogging to combine my biggest passions in life: travel, culture, nature, writing and photography. My blog “The Pink Backpack” showcases my travel photos and stories from across the world, as well as the tips and tricks I’ve picked up along the way. It’s been an incredible journey! I’ve had the chance to connect with travellers and bloggers from all over the world and participate in writing and photo collaborations!

Although I’m from Ontario, Canada, I am currently living in Tanzania where I am doing freelance writing and research for my dissertation. I’m also currently focusing on expanding the Pink Backpack’s content and reach!

2) What are your topics of interest? What do you post on Instagram the most?

My topics of interest are travel, adventure activities, culture, exploring nature and new places. I most commonly post photos of landscapes from the various places I have visited, cultural experiences and activities I have participated in. Occasionally I will post the odd selfie to mix it up- guilty as charged!

3) How did your Instagram name come about?

In order to maintain consistency, my instagram name @thepinkbackpackblog came directly from my blog (www.thepinkbackpack.com) and relates to my other social media handles.

4) What are some apps you use to edit your photos? Share with us your photo-editing routine!

I use Adobe Lightroom to edit all of my raw images before uploading them to my website and social media. I am a perfectionist, so I love to play around with Lightroom’s features to sharpen and heighten the image before sharing it. I typically do not use Instagram’s filters, but sometimes I will use its tools to add saturation and contrast to the image if I feel it requires some additional definition before posting it.

5) Any Instagrammers whom you really like? Which Instagrammer inspires you the most?

I find the nomadic lifestyle and reach of @theblondeabroad really inspiring, as well as @amberfillerup’s consistent ability to connect with brands, campaigns and fans while still maintaining authenticity and upkeep her family’s values.

6) If there’s one thing your fellow Instagrammers just gotta try now, what’s it gonna be?

I’m really intrigued with instagram’s new story feature and how it will play out in the marketing experience of brands. I think this is the biggest and most timely thing my fellow instagrammers should try now!

7) What’s your favorite part about being an influencer?

My favourite part is the reach I have through social media: I have met tons of amazing people from across the world through instagram, whom I would likely otherwise have not connected with.

8) What are some of your top tips to brands for running campaigns? How do you maintain authenticity?

I try to maintain authenticity by focusing on what I am passionate about versus what other people are doing. My advice is to think of your brand as your passion and make campaign decisions around this central focus; conforming to the style and strategies of other brands for the sake of sales or notoriety will not help you stand out, but your individuality and genuine passion for what you do will!

9) What would your advice be on the importance of quality and original content?

I think the old saying ‘quality over quantity’ applies enormously on instagram. If you are consistently sharing original and unique content that is of high quality, your followers will likely stick around and continue to support you whether or not you share images twice a day or every few days. Conversely, if you are posting every single snap you take, people might feel inundated by them and scroll over them; perhaps you could utilize your instagram story for more frequent, everyday snaps like these!

10) What do you like best about partnering with brands?

I like partnering with brands to not only create new connections and widen my reach, but also to try new things and gain novel experiences!

Topics:

• Architecture
• Art
• Food & Drink
• Nature & Outdoors
• Photography
• Travel

Country:

Canada