Life

6 Instagram Cliches We're All Guilty Of

by Megan Grant

If you think your social media posts are new and inspiring, I hate to break it to you: They're probably not. But it's OK; we're all in the same boat, and this video proves it. Musician Hierophante compiled some of the most common Instagram cliches we're all guilty of and turned them into a mindblowing video. The vid shows hundreds of Instagram posts in succession depicting what we've all seen a million times: People "holding up" the Leaning Tower of Pisa, bathtub snaps, and gym mirror selfies. It's fascinating and kind of mesmerizing, and at the same time, it makes me want to disappear from Instagram forever because we are all so unoriginal. Who knew this many people were all posting the same exact thing?

I love Instagram. Nothing gives me more pleasure than scrolling through food and travel pics while I'm going pee. I'm even guilty of some of Hierophante's cliche Insta pics. I celebrate in being able to post pictures of my food; it means I successfully cooked something edible. If that doesn't deserve an Instagram post, I don't know what does.

As long as you're not hurting anyone, posting photos is harmless fun and entertainment; so I say enjoy your bubble bath pics and six-pack gym selfies. But in case you're wondering, here are some of the most commonplace Instagram photos; scroll down to watch the full video. Do you spot yourself anywhere?

1. The Peace Sign

You're especially insightful if you frame your eye with it. This was a cool capture at one point, but then people started hashtagging it with #hippie without even knowing the first thing about that movement. Then it just got annoying.

2. Fun In The Tub

I'm not sure why this became a thing. Is it because it means you're naked? It is supposed to come across as soulful and meditative? I thought baths just meant you were dirty. (Don't get me wrong — I love a good bubble bath.)

3. Catching The Falling Tower

Even if this one is super cliche, I still like it because it means you travel. And that's always a cool thing. Just make sure you actually line up with the tower. Otherwise, that's a major #fail.

4. Your Pretty Coffee Beverage

I'm one of those people who is always thoroughly entertained by cool designs in cups of coffee. Don't judge me. Just know that you're approximately one out of 1,334,294 people posting this picture.

5. Your Moves On The Pole

Remember when pole dancing was viewed as a "bad thing?" Then people opened their eyes and realized that it's fun, challenging, and apparently makes for captivating Instagram pics. Now everyone's on the pole. And if I wasn't scared of falling on my head, I'd probably be doing it too.

6. Possibly The Most Awkward Posed Photo Ever

I remember the guy who started this; and back then, it was really touching. Now, all I can think of is two people awkwardly standing frozen on the beach holding hands while one snaps a picture from behind. #FollowMeTo bed, because this cliche is tired.

GIFs don't do it justice. Check out the full video below.

And because I think it's important to be able to make fun of yourself, let's not forget that 136 weeks ago, I somehow thought I looked good in this selfie.

Godspeed, Instagrammers.

Images: Getty Images; Hierophante/Vimeo (6); Megan Grant/Instagram