> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.smaq.io/documentation/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.smaq.io/documentation/connections/instagram.md).

# Instagram

Connect an Instagram Business or Creator account for organic content performance, follower growth, and viral post monitoring.

The Instagram connection covers your organic Instagram presence. Paid Instagram placements run through the [Facebook Ads (Meta)](/documentation/connections/facebook-ads.md) connection.

### What SMAQ pulls

* Post-level metrics: reach, impressions, engagement, saves, shares
* Story-level metrics: reach, exits, replies
* Reel-level metrics: plays, average watch time, shares
* Profile-level metrics: follower count, following, profile views
* Audience demographics (age, gender, top cities/countries)

### What you'll need

* An Instagram **Business** or **Creator** account (personal accounts aren't supported by the Instagram Graph API).
* The Instagram account must be **linked to a Facebook Page** in Meta Business Manager.
* A Meta account with **Admin** access on that linked Page.

### Steps to connect

1. **Data Source → Add data source**.
2. Pick **Instagram**.
3. Authorize SMAQ via Meta OAuth.
4. Pick the Instagram account from the dropdown (shown alongside the linked Facebook Page).
5. Name and click **Connect**.

> **\[Screen video needed]** Instagram OAuth + account picker. \~45 seconds.

### Automations powered by Instagram

* [Instagram Viral Post Monitor](/documentation/features/creative-intelligence/instagram-viral-monitor.md) — surfaces posts trending faster than your baseline.

### Tips

* **Convert personal to Business first.** If you only see personal accounts in the picker, convert in the Instagram app (Settings → Account → Switch to Professional Account → Business).
* **Reels metrics lag.** Instagram backfills reel watch-time data over \~72 hours. Pulls within 3 days of post date are partial.

### Troubleshooting

* **"Instagram account not linked to a Page"** — link it in Meta Business Manager first.
* **Story data missing** — stories disappear from the API after 24 hours. SMAQ pulls them daily; if you missed a pull, that story's data is gone.

### Related

* [Facebook Ads](/documentation/connections/facebook-ads.md)
* [Instagram Viral Post Monitor](/documentation/features/creative-intelligence/instagram-viral-monitor.md)