When it comes to photo filters, Instagram is not one to roll out new additions every month. Its last update to its filters goes way back to December 2012, giving ample time for other photography-related apps to make a name for themselves, such as the VSCO Cam.
Such app has become increasingly popular due to its wide range of filters and editing options, allowing one's photos to become easily noticeable in any feed. As a response, Instagram also released a couple of editing tools to quickly tweak photos last summer and also introduced five new filters.
"Photography trends have evolved," Instagram explained in its official statement. "We've seen tremendous creativity within the community, not only in the moments they share, but in the time spent carefully composing and editing photos and videos to bring out emotions and make them beautiful."
As such, the latest additions to the app's filters include Slumber, Crema, Ludwig, Perpetua and Aden. Slumber is Instagram's take on retro photos with a touch of desaturation, particularly to the black and blue hues whereas Crema offers a "smooth look", thanks to its ability to increase or decrease the temperature of any photo.
Instagram users who are keen on showing off photos of architecture, portraits and the like may take interest in the Ludwig filter as it offers a minimalist approach to improving a photo.
Meanwhile, Perpetua takes its inspiration from Oregon's Cape Perpetua's national forest, allowing users to enjoy a blue-green tinge for their nature-related images. Finally, the Aden filter provides a distinct pastel shade that is ideal for portraits, even for extra bright photos.
With Instagram offering twenty-four options for photo filters, it now allows users to get more organized and sort out their chosen options; even selected filters can be hidden. As the new filters are being introduced, it will be positioned at the front of the filter list by default.
With Instagram reaching a whopping 300 million users, its filters have become quite the hype; as such, the public now seeks a wider range of options to select from, including filters and editing tools alike, which can all be found in the app itself.
Aside from the filters, other features such as the cropping and straightening components have also been enhanced. Users can also view real-time comments without having to refresh the photo's page. Even videos in slow motion can now be uploaded.
This updated Instagram version gets a rollout to iOS and Android this week.
