Automatically Add Instagram Photos as WordPress Posts

I’ve been having my Instagram photos autopost as blog posts for awhile, but I was never thrilled with the results. Unfortunately there’s not one single plugin (that I can find) that works just as I want it to. But I’ve found a solution for my personal site (yay!)

What I want:

  • All my Instagram posts automatically posted to my (self-hosted) WordPress site as individual posts.
  • The caption of each image should serve as the post title.
  • The content of each post should include a link back to the image on Instagram.
  • The image should automatically be uploaded to my site and inserted as the featured image for the post.

This requires three tools (aside from Instagram and WordPress… )

  1. IFTTT to autopost the images to WordPress.
  2. The Auto Save Remote Image plugin.
  3. The Auto-Hyperlink URLs plugin.

Step One: Use this IFTTT recipe to automatically send your Instagram posts to WordPress. Add your own category and tag(s).
Step Two: The Auto Save Remote Image plugin will automatically grab, upload, and set the photo as the featured image for the post. No setting required after activation.
Step Three: In the setting for Auto-Hyperlink URL I set the Hyperlink Mode/Truncation to 1, which displays only the domain for the autoposted link (resulting in “via instagram.com…“.) The IFTTT recipe posts the link to Instagram as plain text, this converts it to an active link.

Bonus

If you want to keep your Instagram photos out of your site’s RSS feed, make sure they are all sent to a category set up just for those photos. Then, to exclude that category from your RSS feed, open your theme’s functions.php file and insert the following:

// exclude instagram category from feed
function catFeedExcluder($query) {
if(is_feed()) {
$query->set( 'category__not_in', '-4' );
return $query;
}
}
add_filter('pre_get_posts', 'catFeedExcluder');

Replace ‘-4‘ with the correct category ID number (Go to Posts > Categories and click on the category name. The address bar will show the category ID number like this: “…wp/wp-admin/edit-tags.php?action=edit&taxonomy=category&tag_ID=4&post_type=post”

Adjust/play with the various settings to suit your own needs.

Step into Self-Hosted WordPress

These are the first steps you’ll need to take when working with us to build your new WordPress site. Even if you’re going it alone, hopefully you’ll find this information helpful!

Domain and Hosting

All self-hosted WordPress sites require a web host to contain and serve the files. Many sites use what are known as “shared servers.” Your site will share space on giant servers with other similarly sized sites, which saves you loads of money. As your site grows you can easily upgrade your hosting account to suit your needs.

You also need to register your domain name. I generally recommend that you register your domain separately from your hosting account.

  1. Register Your Domain: All the good domains aren’t taken! Get a little creative. Come up with a few ideas, then go to Hover and see if they’re available. If you really get stuck there are sites such as Bust a Name or Nameboy that can help. Once you find the domain of your dreams, grab it! They’re cheap!
  2. Sign Up for Hosting: I highly recommend Lunarpages shared hosting. I’ve use them for over a decade and never had a complaint. Click the link above and sign up, using your shiny new domain name!
    If you want hassle-free managed WordPress hosting with full WordPress support, check out WP Engine.

Choose a Theme

Let’s be honest- you might not need a premium theme. There are some great free ones available at WordPress.org. Even the built in TwentyTwelve theme that comes with WordPress is customizable (to a point) and might be enough for your needs. I’ve used it myself for a client’s simple site recently. But you’re ready to move beyond the limits of a free blog; why choose a limiting theme? For the past couple years I find myself constantly turning to StudioPress. The StudioPress Genesis framework comes with built-in security and search engine optimization, and the support that comes with Genesis is worth so much more than the price.

  1. Head over to StudioPress and read more about why it rocks! Then go choose from over 40 child theme designs, each with built-in customization options. Get both Genesis and a gorgeous child theme for as low as only $79.95! Don’t see what you want? Let Pixel Currents modify or create a perfect theme, just for you. (NOTE: if you would like Pixel Currents to design your theme please do not purchase a child theme until after consulting with us.)
  2. That was easy…

Just a Couple More Things…

We like to start our clients out with a few powerful plugins. In order to make use of these plugins, we recommend that you go ahead and set up the necessary accounts ahead of time so you’re ready to go.

  1. Register at WordPress.com. While you don’t need a WordPress.com account to run a self-hosted WordPress site, you do need one to take advantage of the amazing Jetpack plugin, which gives your site superpowers!
  2. Register at Disqus.com. WordPress comes with a robust commenting system out of the box, but if you want your readers to be able to comment using their existing social media accounts, and keep your comment moderation headaches to a minimum, Disqus is the way to go!

Ready… Set…

You’ve got the toolkit assembled, now it’s time to build! If you’re a comfortable DIYer go for it!

If you would like Pixel Currents to install, set up, and/or customize your WordPress site, please complete the form below. When we receive it we’ll be in touch for the details and to schedule a complimentary 30 minute phone consultation!

Your Name (required)

Your Email (required)

Hosting

Genesis
 I have purchased Genesis and a child theme. I have purchased the Genesis framework only. I prefer to use another theme on my site.

WordPress.com
 I have an account at wordpress.com. I do not have an account at wordpress.com.

Disqus
 I have an account with Disqus. I do not have an account with Disqus.

Questions or notes?

WordPress Freelancers Lead the Way

Interesting infographic from StudioPress that shows the results of a survey by WordPress.

How Developers are Driving the Business Adoption of WordPress [Infographic].

Control Your Content!

Is your content starting to feel a little scattered? Now more than ever it’s time to create or update your online home.
Click to download the Genesis Guide for Absolute BeginnersA self-hosted WordPress site puts you in control of how your content is presented, and using the Genesis Design Framework makes it easy. Search engine optimization and security measures are built right in. Start with one of the gorgeous, customizable child themes or contact us to build you a site that looks like no other.

Easily use social networks to direct traffic and build your brand. Keep your content organized and in your control.

Want to learn more about Genesis? Click here to download The Genesis Guide for Absolute Beginners (PDF) or read more at StudioPress.

Have questions? Prefer to hire someone to set up or design your site? Get in touch now to schedule a free 30 minute phone consultation and let us help you control your content!

Southby 2010

I’ve been trying to put this year’s South by Southwest Interactive experience into words, but it’s proving impossible. I was hoping to come home inspired and focused, and I definitely got what I wanted. I’ve already been doing some work in the area of online privacy, and the keynotes and sessions I went to proved that I’m on the right track. Stay tuned!

During the conference I wrote reviews of the sessions I attended at Lunch.com. Please go check out the reviews from me and others, and while you’re there have a look at Lunch, it’s a great new community site!

To name a few who helped make the trip special:

Adele McAlear shared my hotel room and was a fantastic roommate. Her research in death and digital legacy is fascinating stuff!

Sarah Vela let me tag along as she met with people to help promote her awesome new site helpattack.com (go sign up!) She introduced me to bunches of amazing people.

I devoted an entire blog post to how Thom Singer helped me out. Go read it.

Len Edgerly joined us for a recording of Push My Follow despite my failure to record our attempt to do the same thing last year!

Thomas Knoll invited me to help promote Lunch.com and proved once again why he’s so good at what he does. Look for him to cause fireworks in his new job at Zappos!

Conversations with Amber Marlow Blatt inspired me yet again. Love that girl.

I had a long, rambly conversation with Jason Jarrett at the end of a long day and it was just what I needed!

I finally met Ann, Shannon, Gavin, Ethan, & Baratunde!

Bonus- I got to grab a quick empanada with my grammar school classmate Linda! We hadn’t seen each other since 1977!

Others I hung out with or at least hugged:
Rob
Sarah
Tracy
Jake
Krissi
Mike
Phil
Zane
Wesley
Lloyd
Melissa
Steve
Rachael
Mary Ann
Jeff
Cathy
C.C.
Zane
Ewan
Becky
Derrick
Keith
Jeff
Jane
Alicia
Brian

Happy to have also met:
Kelly
Molly
Beth
Ian
Randall
Angie
Kevin
Mark
Liz
Joanna
Debbie
Diana
Noah
Sam
Cindy
Heather
and tons of others whose names I never even got (bad Annie!)

Sorry I missed:
Laura
Dave
Giannii
Sukhjit
Erin
Lucretia
Gary
Aliza
Chris
Bryan
Goldie

(if I saw you and missed naming you I apologize- I tried but I’m sure I forget a few!)

Until next year, Austin!

101 Lists

101I just noticed that I’m on 101 Twitter lists. Lists are a new feature that let you group people you follow any way you like, publicly or privately. I have a few lists myself: Jersey people, funny people, creative people- and a couple private ones that include the folks I like to follow a little closer than the rest.

listsWhat’s cool about being included in lists is that it gives you a little glimpse into how other people see you. I’m on some NJ lists, some WordPress and geek lists, and others that just make me smile. Some of my faves include

  • the-good-shit-list
  • smartladies
  • smartypantses (defined as “The SmartAssii.”)
  • respect
  • women-that-rock
  • mega-helpful
  • team-hot-salad-dressing
  • boobenvy
  • the-awesome-squad
  • sunshinepandacakeparty
  • makemesmiletoo
  • awesomesauce
  • ny-mets-fans

Thanks everyone who’s listed me! I need to spend some time making a few more myself- what other groups can I come up with?

Blogworld Expo Free T-Shirt Round-up

I’ve got lots to say about Blogworld Expo, but let’s start simple. How was the schwag? Specifically, how were the t-shirts?
I only grabbed shirts from 3 sponsors, so this isn’t an inclusive list…

Most Well-Targeted to the Crowd:

Geeks love braaaains!
(from Server Beach)

by geeks, for geeks

Most WTF:

Complete with a Sharpie to fill in the blanks. Did anyone fill them in? Will anyone wear this in public? This is what I call a “home treadmill shirt.”
(from People Pond)

hello my name is...
Love (?) the space for comments on the back… comments

Best Design:

Great tagline, love the flying devices and icons!
(from Blubrry)

BlogLouder

I know there were other shirts out there on the floor, any good, bad or ugly ones I missed?

One Goal

I’m heading to Blog World Expo this week and my main goal for this conference is to come away with something NEW and BIG and CHALLENGING to work on.

3586354961_ce6ba58980_mI have no idea what that might be, or even what form that might take. It could be a client for Pixel Currents, it could be a connection with someone who has a great idea and needs help making it happen, it could be an idea for a new blog or podcast, it could be knowledge that will kick-start some creative venture, or it could be something I haven’t even imagined yet.

In fact NEW and BIG and CHALLENGING to me may be something old, tiny, and simple to you.

If you’ll be there please look for me and say hi. Maybe you can help me hit that goal?

(image by frli on flickr.com)

Free Intro to Social Media Presentation

This Thursday, September 3, I’ll be joining Eva Abreu to present Intro to Social Media at the Highland Park (NJ) Library. This is the first in a series of sessions Eva has arranged titled Making Connections Using Social Media. More information may be found at Social Media Connections.

If you’re in the area I’d love to meet you! This session is free and a great way to learn how to take those first steps into using social media.

Follow Pixel Currents on Twitter here.
Follow Annie on Twitter here.

How to add an alternate or maiden name in Facebook

One of the most popular posts on my personal blog explains how to insert your maiden name (or other alternate name) into your profile. In fact I get a lot of people who run a search from within Facebook itself. Since it seems to be something people want to know, I thought I’d repeat the information here.

They added this option relatively recently so not many seem to know it’s there. If you choose, your name will appear in parentheses in your profile, and searches for it will find you, but it won’t be a part of your name (as it would if you use the middle name field instead.)

Of course, if you don’t want your old high school ex to find you, better to just leave it blank :) .

Follow Pixel Currents on Twitter here.
Follow Annie on Twitter here.

Seth Godin on Social Networking for Business

It’s about relationships, not numbers!

NY Times Story on Marketing Small Businesses with Twitter

“We think of these social media tools as being in the realm of the sophisticated, multiplatform marketers like Coca-Cola and McDonald’s, but a lot of these supersmall businesses are gravitating toward them because they are accessible, free and very simple,” said Greg Sterling, an analyst who studies the Internet’s influence on shopping and local businesses.

Marketing Small Businesses With Twitter – NYTimes.com.

(Very) Random SXSWi highlights

As most of you know I finally traveled to Austin TX for the annual South by Southwest Interactive conference (SXSWi). I’ve been wanting to go since 2007 when, shortly after I joined Twitter, I started following social media types talking about the conference.

Attending this year was a pretty last minute decision. It’s expensive, for one thing. The conference ticket alone was over $400, then you add in airfare, and hotel for 5 nights… EEK! But my lovely friend Sarah, who lives in Austin graciously offered to put me up, so that took out the hotel cost (or so I thought…) We also had a scheduling conflict so both Pat & I couldn’t attend, as we’d originally hoped.

But I went and I’m glad I did, mostly because I got to spend some time with with friends, and finally hug or shake hands with people I’ve only known through Twitter or Seesmic.

Some random, non-inclusive highlights:

  • Going to Fry’s, Ikea, and a cute hardware store with Sarah, Phil, and Dave, and realizing that Texas looks just like NJ but with shorter trees.Fruitless searching for a mic at Fry's with @philcampbell & @buddhamagnet
  • Finally meeting my first Twitter client, Connie@conniereece @banannie
  • Pedicab ride!
  • Taking photos and video of each other “ironically” while certain A-listers huddled in a corner doing the same with a bit more intensity at the Seesmic/Blogher/Gnomedex/Ping.fm party (still no idea how they ended up hosting the same party.) C-listers can spend an evening filming each other, too.
  • Breakfast tacos!
  • Spending time with small pockets of people rather than huge crowds for the most part.@orchid8 @goldiekatsu @theambershow
  • Stalking Merlin Mann & Jonathan Coulton (from a distance) to see if they were headed someplace cool (um, they weren’t.)
  • Getting lost. A lot. But I saw more of Austin that way
  • Geeking out with fellow You Look Nice Today fans Rob & Sarah as we sat next to all three guys at the Hilton bar (but did any of us go over to say hi? lol)
  • Power Corner@loic @jeffpulver @lloyddavis @alizasherman @cc_chapman @dykc3352314206_d04b9f9e6e_m
  • Watching a friend receive some very good news and seeing how happy it made her.
  • Huddling around the last propane torch to the left at the Frog Design partyFrog Design party
  • Sleeping in a really nice hotel room all alone (after I wasn’t able to sleep in a house full of people, I moved to the hotel for the last three nights. Very $$$ but I made the most of it!)
  • Rolling my eyes at the A-list@chrisbrogan @banannie
  • Being declared the “coolest mom in the world.” Twice.
  • My smooth flight home!

I just noticed that none of these highlights involve scheduled sessions. I guess that’s because of the one big problem I had- my lack of focus led me to spend more time wondering what to do or being distracted by my immediate surroundings than making sure I attended the sessions I’d planned on. That’s something I continue to work on- if someone else is relying on me to get something done, it gets done. But if it’s just for myself, well, maybe it gets done!

Another reason I seemed to miss good sessions was that there was no easy way to see who was speaking. The sessions I most regret missing were awesome due to the presenters, not the topics.

Ah well, it was a good experience and I’m glad I went. Would I go back? Definitely, but I need to have goals to hit while there, whether as a representative of someone else or for myself. In fact I want to go back next year just to apply the lessons learned from this one!

@philcampbell @ikrissi @starmike (and @danpatterson's head)@robblatt @theambershow@theambershow @tapps@simedia @orchid8@tapps @rojopelo @meadowsling @captaincrazy@thomasknoll @jselevenPlease Push White Circle to Flush@jeffhinz @orchid8@sukhjit in her Sukhjit shirt from @philcampbell@sukhjit @giannii @rachaeljoytv@buddhamagnet @philcampbell interviewing @garyvee@robblatt @philcampbell @tappsview from Hilton@philcampbell @sarahcooleycog'aokeZombies!