A quick scroll through the average Instagram feed will likely yield similar results: selfies, dogs, babies, maybe a lunch or two. But with more than 300 million users and 70 million photos and videos shared each day, Instagram also offers posts by entrepreneurs, astronauts, parents, activists and bloggers. Here are some of OC Family’s favorite Instagrammers to follow. Also, don’t forget to check out OC Family’s Instagram @ocfamily
Santa Ana Active Streets @Saactivestreets
The goal of this local organization, funded by Caltrans, is to cultivate community participation in establishing a network of bike and pedestrian corridors in central Santa Ana. Basically, they want to make it safer and more enjoyable to get around town.
NASA @nasa
Exploring the universe through a smartphone might not be an obvious option, but this Instagram allows followers to do just that. Blasts from the sun’s surface, supernovas 20,000 light-years away and a close-up view of Saturn’s rings are just a few of the images that pop up. The images are out of this world, and NASA includes educational factoids with each post.
SoCal With Kids @socalwithkids
Finding something to do every weekend with kids can get tricky. This Instagram offers family-friendly activities and interesting places to see from Los Angeles to San Diego. Find delicious vegan doughnuts, take a peek inside the Museum of Mankind and more.
Lil Devil’s boutique @lildevilsboutique
This funky kids shop, found in the hipster heart of Long Beach on Retro Row, is a family-run store specializing in clothing, gifts, toys and books for children 6 and under. Its Instagram is a parade of cute babies in artsy or punk-inspired onesies alongside toys and other offerings.
Apartment Therapy @apartmenttherapy
An endless stream of home inspiration, Apartment Therapy posts design ideas for every room, style and budget. Showing midcentury modern to shabby chic, the home decor snapshots make redecorating look blissfully fun.
Target does it again @targetdoesitagain
Strolling the aisles of Target in hopes of finding something special is made easy by the two moms behind this Instagram. They regularly post snapshots of Target’s deals, latest fashion merchandise, kids gear and trendy items for the home.
Honey and Butter Macarons @honeyandbutter
This shop at the Irvine Spectrum bakes fresh macarons daily, each one decorated by hand. Follow it to see recently created cookies, watch how-to videos and more.
Amy Poehler’s Smart Girls @amypoehlersmartgirls
Empowering and celebrating the achievements of women and girls is the mission of this organization founded by the comic actress. Posts often include behind-the-scenes snapshots of the Smart Girls team working away, along with inspiring quotes, questions and stories.
Hanaeleh Horse Rescue @hanaeleh
This nonprofit horse rescue and advocacy group in Trabuco Canyon fills its Instagram with gorgeous photos of horses and inspirational quotes for a cause. If you love horses, this is an account to follow. And if you want to volunteer or donate, visit hanaeleh.org for more information.
Ryan Sheckler @shecks
This San Clemente-based pro skateboarder posts videos and photos of his skating escapades along with interesting locals and people involved in the Sheckler Foundation, which supports causes affecting children and injured action-sports athletes. The foundation’s Instagram is also worth a follow @shecklerfoundation.
