After starting her Instagram as a hobby, illustrator Nicola Jane runs her own creative studio, Nicola Jane Creative, and has worked with some of her fave beauty brands and influencers.
Here, we chat to the multi-talented artist about how Instagram — and Plann! — helped her turn her dream into a reality.
It’s hard to think of a more perfect social media platform for artists than Instagram. The visually-driven app serves as an online portfolio where talented creatives can display their stunning work (and luckily for us, we get to look at it!) Not only that, but it gives them the marketing tools and visibility to turn a hobby into a career.
That’s exactly what happened for Plann’r and one of our fave creatives, Nicola Jane! While working in marketing, the graphic designer and artist discovered a love for illustrating her favourite beauty brands and fashion influencers. Thanks to the power of Instagram, she quickly grew a following and was able to transform this passion into her full-time job.
Now, Nicola runs her own creative studio, Nicola Jane Creative, and has worked with some of her fave beauty brands and influencers. She also sells her own stunning prints on her online shop.
Here, we chat to the multi-talented artist about how Instagram — and Plann! — helped her turn her dream into a reality.
The account purpose
“When I first started illustrating, it was as a hobby. So, I didn’t have any set goals, and I didn’t have a website or anything. I just solely used Instagram as a place to post my art with the hopes that other people would like it. As my Instagram following grew, so did my client base and it turned into my full-time job. So, without Instagram, I definitely wouldn’t have the business that I do now.”
A Plann’r from the beginning
“I have actually used Plann since I first created my business Instagram. I knew it was important to have a beautiful and cohesive feed so a scheduling app was the first thing I researched when I made my Instagram. It helps me to be consistent with my posting and ensure that my feed is always looking cohesive.
The first thing I noticed when I downloaded it was: it’s so easy use! I downloaded a few different scheduling apps the trial them all and Plann was by far my favorite. It had all of the tools I was looking for while being really simple and easy to learn.”
The power of Instagram
“Instagram is a great place to showcase my work, but the thing I love most about it is being able to connect with other people. I have met some amazing fellow creatives through Instagram who are so supportive, and inspire my work so much.
As my following has grown so has my community and it’s amazing being able to DM and connect with them in a way that wouldn’t be possible without Instagram.”
Her favourite Plann feature
“The drag and drop feed builder is a lifesaver, and scheduling posts so that I never forget to post when I want to!”
Nicola’s top tip for a consistent feed
“Use consistent colours throughout your feed and if you use a filter, try and stick to the same one for every photo. If you are struggling to know how to make your feed aesthetic, research what your favourite Instagrammers are doing!”
What’s next for Nicola Jean Creative?
“I have just opened back up my print shop, so I will be looking to continually add to that over the next few months. I’ll also be adding a blog to my website talking all things illustration, design and self-employment”
You can follow Nicola at @nicolajanecreative or check out her website here
Want an Instagram feed as stunning as Nicola’s? While we, unfortunately help you steal her epic illustration skills, we can give you the tools to plan, curate and schedule a gorgeous grid. Start your free trial of Plann today!
