In the vast world of social media, platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube are filled with popular accounts led by influencers who create content we all love and follow. Whether that be book reviews, aesthetic photos or simply reading vlogs, their presence often sparks inspiration and sometimes we find ourselves wishing we could be in their shoes. ​​For many, it all comes down to that first post: sitting in front of the camera and talking about the love for literature or capturing a photo holding your TBR (to-be-read) pile for the next month.

But what about those of us who are a little bit camera shy? What if you want to create content without appearing on your friends’, family’s, or colleagues’ feeds? If that is so, the good news is that books are the perfect subject for content creation! They are beautiful and offer a unique yet universal appeal, no matter the genre, design or even language! So, if you’re still doubting whether there’s a space in the content world where you could still lead a successful bookish account without featuring your face, we’ve got you covered! We’ve already spoken about how to start a TikTok account, now it’s Instagram’s turn!

15 ways to create content without showing your face for your next bookish post!

Books, books, books! We all love seeing and interacting with them online. Flatlays, stacked books, open books, shelved books, special edition books… The options are truly endless, and you don’t need any fancy equipment. Simply use your phone, find good lighting, and go for it! 

The fun thing about social media is that there are essentially no “rules” to follow when it comes to content creation! So one image can spark an endless number of discussions. Stay genuine to your audience and let your creativity and personal style shine.

• The Flatlay

One of the most popular and beloved book styles, and for good reason! It’s easy to do and always looks beautiful. Pick your chosen book and surround it with a few props lying around the house – bookmarks, pens, highlighters, sticky tabs, tea cups or… more books!

• Book Shelves 

Who doesn’t love a good shelfie? Your book collection is probably one of your pride and joys, so show it off! It doesn’t matter whether it is colour-coordinated or organised by genres. This is the easiest way to spot someone with the same reading preferences as you or to find someone who can introduce you to a new genre.

• Book Recommendations

Which was the last book you loved? Tell your followers all about it and why they should pick it up! You could include comparison titles in your photo, or just feature your new favourite.

• The Stack 

You probably have a stack of books lying somewhere around the house. Whether it’s your latest book purchases, your TBR pile, or simply because you ran out of space, snap a photo or a video and put it up online!

• “Choose My Next Read”

Are you stuck in a reading slump or simply can’t decide what to read next? Ask your bookish friends to help out! You might give them a selection to pick from, or show your last favourite and ask for recommendations.

• The Hold Up 

It couldn’t get more simple than that! Show us the book of your choice over a nice background.

• Book Hauls

Did you buy any new books recently? We’d love to see them and maybe find something that catches our interest as well!

• From Books to Screen 

We all love book-to-screen adaptations! Show your audience which one is your favourite. You could also use this as an opportunity to ask your followers whether they are Team Book First, or Team Film First!

• The TBR Pile

The long-dreaded TBR pile… The bookish community is a safe space and there’s no shame in how many books are currently lying around waiting to be picked up next. So show us what you’re hoping to get to soon. You could share all your unread books, your monthly want to read stack, or even a seasonal reading list.

• What’s In Your Bag?

Are we even readers if we don’t bring a book or a Kindle everywhere? So what are you bringing out today? This is a really fun one before holidays, and just to be nosy!

• Book Aesthetics 

It’s always fun to recreate book aesthetics! Grab your phone and get creative!

• Favorite Book Covers

Beautiful book covers are always candy for the eyes! Show us your show-stopper editions! You could even do this while book shopping, and find the most beautiful books in the bookstore!

• On Vacation

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A post shared by Julianna ~ Bookish content creator, fantasy bookworm (@juliannareads)

@juliannareads

Reading in the car, on the plane, or even at the beach makes for a cute vacation photo!

• Reading Vlog

Give voiceovers a try or simply capture your reading view and progress throughout the day or week!

• Behind-the-scenes

Finish off with a behind-the-scenes snap of your latest post. It shows the dedication and work that goes into content creation. Be genuine with your audience and share this side of your bookish account.

If you are looking for specific inspirations check out your favourite accounts or simply browse the hashtags: #bookflatlays #bookhaul #shelfie #bookshelves #bookadaptations #TBRpile #inmybag #readingvlog #bookaesthetics

And remember, your book photos don’t need to be perfectly styled or polished. Being a bookish creator is all about having fun and meeting like-minded readers. Don’t stress yourself and enjoy the process! At the end of the day, people stay because of YOU and not because the last photo had amazing lighting! Authenticity often resonates more with your audience than perfection. Let your passion for books shine through, and don’t worry about achieving a flawless look. I hope these simple ideas inspire you to start your bookish journey which as we saw doesn’t always require stepping in front of the camera! Good luck!