TLDR: Bluesky is the newest contender in the social media landscape, promising decentralization, algorithmic freedom, and authentic conversations. For brands, it’s not a place to recycle old tactics from Instagram, X, or TikTok—it’s a fresh opportunity to rethink formats and build authentic connections using thoughtful photography and video production.
Bluesky is here, and it’s already making waves with its decentralized structure, customizable feeds, and emphasis on user control. For brands, this isn’t just another platform to add to your marketing rotation—it’s a chance to rethink how you approach social media entirely. Forget the algorithm hacks, overused tactics, and engagement baits of Instagram, X, and TikTok. On Bluesky, the rules are different, and so are the opportunities.
Take a Seat, Don’t Steal the Show
The worst thing brands can do on Bluesky is crash the party with overly aggressive marketing tactics. The platform’s early adopters are here for authentic conversations, not ads that disrupt the vibe.
What This Means for Brands:
Instead of diving headfirst into self-promotion, take the time to understand the community. Join conversations, engage thoughtfully, and let your presence grow organically. This is a place for storytelling and connection, not hard selling.
Photography and Video Tips:
Authenticity First: Use candid, behind-the-scenes photography and video to share your brand’s human side. Show the people, processes, and passions behind your product.
Minimal Branding: Avoid overt logos and flashy production. Instead, focus on subtle, relatable visuals that contribute to the conversation.
Think of Bluesky as a roundtable discussion, not a stage for your ad campaign.
Rethink Your Formats
For years, portrait-first content (9x16) has dominated social media, with platforms like Instagram Stories and TikTok making vertical the king of formats. But with Bluesky’s decentralized, user-first approach, we might be seeing a shift. Formats like 16x9 (landscape), 1x1 (square), and 4x5 (classic portrait) are all back in play, giving brands the chance to mix things up and prioritize versatility.
What This Means for Brands:
Portrait still works, but Bluesky’s customizable feeds and emphasis on conversation-first interactions mean there’s space for other formats to shine. Landscape is ideal for storytelling, square feels dynamic and versatile, and 4x5 is the perfect middle ground for immersive mobile experiences without going full vertical.
Photography and Video Tips:
Shoot With Multiple Formats in Mind: Capture your visuals in ways that can easily be adapted across 16x9, 1x1, and 4x5 formats. This gives you flexibility to reach diverse audiences without compromising quality.
Use Landscape for Storytelling: Long-form video, scenic photography, or documentary-style content thrives in 16x9.
Experiment With Square and Portrait: 1x1 and 4x5 formats strike the right balance for content that needs to work across desktop and mobile.
Bluesky’s emphasis on user choice opens the door for brands to explore formats beyond 9x16—giving your visuals room to breathe.
Avoid the Engagement Trap
The engagement traps of Instagram, X, and TikTok—think clickbait captions, overdone hashtags, or follow-for-follow schemes—won’t work here. Bluesky’s algorithmic freedom allows users to customize their experience, meaning forced engagement tactics could backfire.
What This Means for Brands:
Instead of chasing likes and shares, focus on creating meaningful interactions. Brands that listen, respond thoughtfully, and add value to discussions will naturally find their place.
Photography and Video Tips:
Ask, Don’t Tell: Use polls or question-style videos to encourage real feedback from your audience.
Highlight Conversations: Feature customer comments or community insights in your posts to show you’re actively engaging.
Engagement isn’t about numbers—it’s about connections that last.
4. Decentralization and What It Means for Your Brand’s Voice
Bluesky’s decentralized structure changes the game for how content spreads and who sees it. The lack of a central algorithm means your reach depends on the quality of your content and the strength of your community connections.
What This Means for Brands:
Your brand voice matters more than ever. This is your chance to create content that doesn’t rely on algorithms to find its audience—it resonates because it’s meaningful.
Photography and Video Tips:
Tell Stories That Stick: Invest in narrative-driven videos that capture your brand’s essence without needing flashy effects.
Personalized Content: Create posts tailored to specific community interests, making your brand feel like a natural part of the platform.
“Decentralization rewards content that’s real, relevant, and resonates.”
Early Adoption: Setting the Tone for the Future
Bluesky is still growing, which means the culture of the platform is still taking shape. Brands that join now have the opportunity to be part of its foundational identity—but only if they respect the space.
What This Means for Brands:
Early adoption isn’t about dominating the conversation; it’s about setting a positive precedent. Show that your brand is here to add value, not just push products.
Photography and Video Tips:
Timeless Visuals: Create evergreen content that will remain relevant as the platform evolves.
Experiment with Formats: Use this time to test what works—animated GIFs, user testimonials, or day-in-the-life videos.
Early adopters set the standard for what the platform becomes—make sure your brand is contributing to something positive.
Closing Thoughts: A Fresh Start for Brands
Bluesky offers brands a rare opportunity to break free from the algorithm-driven chaos of other platforms and focus on what truly matters: creating meaningful, visually compelling content. With professional photography and video production, your brand can rise above the noise, embracing authenticity and storytelling in a way that connects deeply with audiences.
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Raised Media Co. is a NYC-based commercial photography and video production agency specializing in experiential visual content. We help brands and personalities convey compelling stories through high-impact photos and videos.
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