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Every year the question is the same. What kind of content is actually working on Instagram right now. In this episode Jodie breaks down the specific content types that are performing well in 2026, pulled straight from what her content marketing agency is seeing across client accounts at scale. You don't need to create every single format, but pulling a few of these into your rotation is an easy way to freshen up your content this year.

→ Photo dump style carousels, and why the second slide matters just as much as the first

→ Storytelling carousels and how to use open loops to keep people swiping

→ FaceTime style face to camera content, the low production, high connection format blowing up on TikTok

→ A hard no on filming FaceTime style content while driving

→ Cinematic face to camera content, including how to get that high end look with just an iPhone and good lighting

→ Setting custom video editing guidelines for different brand styles, from high impact zooms to something softer

→ Green screen and remix content, and why it's a smart way to piggyback on trending topics

→ Voiceover content in both vlog and pure storytelling formats, and why strong B-roll is non negotiable

→ Short hook reels and what separates a scroll stopping statement from one that falls flat

→ A bonus format for anyone sitting on old quote graphics and statement posts

The biggest takeaway here is that quality does not mean high production. Some of the best performing content this year is filmed on a couch with a phone and good lighting. If you listen to this and realize you'd rather have someone else handle it for you, that is exactly what Jodie's team helps clients with at Align Creative Co. Send a DM on Instagram at @itsjodiebrown if you want support creating done for you content.