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You’ve probably heard it a hundred times: what you see online isn’t always real. That flawless hourglass figure? Likely touched up. That dreamy sunset bursting with color? Color-grading magic. With filters, poses, lighting tricks, and editing apps just a tap away, the line between real life and curated content keeps getting blurrier.

Highlighting exactly this, the Bored Panda team rounded up some eye-opening “Instagram vs. reality” photos from across the internet, all focused on those dreamy travel shots. You know the kind: someone twirling in front of a crystal-clear lake, hair flowing, not a soul in sight until you realize the real version includes a dozen other tourists, a boat honking in the distance, and a guy casually eating chips just out of frame. Keep scrolling to see the magic and the mayhem behind those perfect posts!

#1

Insta vs. reality: a woman poses alone at Trevi Fountain, revealing its crowded backdrop filled with tourists.

roemer_productions Report

Jrog
Community Member
8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Instagrammers go to Trevi Fountain at 5-6 AM in the morning to take these photos. There is usually a small line of ladies in scant dresses waiting for their time to shoot the same exact trite pics. On the other hand, the crowd in the other photo is not typical if you visit in a normal day, that's not a peak tourist time (weekend, major holiday or June-August).

Tonyah Mcanelly
Community Member
8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You are not allowed to sit on the fountain wall. When I was there a couple of years ago security was making people who were sitting on it get off.

Lyone Fein
Community Member
8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There must be some times when the fountain is like the picture on the left, otherwise how would they get the shot? Just go at a similar time?

hardrad2009
Community Member
8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My wife wanted us to have a romantic photo session in Rome. We started at 5 am

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    #3

    Insta vs. Reality: Pristine turquoise pools versus crowded natural springs with many swimmers.

    roemer_productions Report

    Jrog
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Terme di Saturnia. The left photo is fake A.F., but the right one is simply a bad photo. Once again, outside of weekends and peak tourism days it's far more manageable.

    Jay Scales
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Looks as if they've had a chemical spill in the first pic....

    Bob Brooce
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Looks as if you're simply missing the useful clues about what you're seeing. The waters are saturated with minerals, which is the reason for both the terraces and the color of the water. The color you see will depend on both the lighting and where you're viewing from, although the editor of the left picture was a bit aggressive about adjusting the color of the water.

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    Ever find yourself wondering how everything looks so perfect on social media? From dreamy office views to vacation pics that seem pulled straight from a travel brochure, sometimes it all feels just a bit too flawless. Well, editing, filters, setups, it’s all part of the show. And it turns out it’s not just selfies and landscapes getting the glow-up.

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    To understand how much goes into these picture-perfect posts, we spoke with Parth Kothari, co-founder of MunchyMumbai, a buzzing food-blogging page with over 167k followers. Parth begins, “People usually think it’s only selfies and vacation pics that are edited. But honestly, we also have to edit food photos.” And not just a little. It’s a whole art. The camera doesn’t always capture the deliciousness the way our eyes do. So, some magic is added to make the viewer hungry.

    #4

    Insta vs. Reality: Woman in red dress at quiet Trevi Fountain vs. crowded scene with tourists in Rome.

    roemer_productions Report

    YukiChou
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Different point of view & time of day.

    Wyrdwoman
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yep, where the sun is means it is early morning.

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    Jrog
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Repeat: Instagrammers go to Trevi Fountain at 5-6 AM in the morning to take these photos. There is usually a small line of ladies in scant dresses waiting for their time to shoot the same exact trite pics. On the other hand, the crowd in the other photo is not typical if you visit in a normal day, that's not a peak tourist time (weekend, major holiday or June-August).

    Nad.nad
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'm so glad I went there before social media existed

    Lyone Fein
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Different season, time of day?

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    #5

    Insta vs. Reality: Serene photo by water with a large crowd waiting behind, revealing the truth of perfect photos.

    asasteinars Report

    SlothyK8
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The photo on the left appears to be at Miyajima off the coast of Hiroshima. The area where the gate is located is not wooded like the photo on the right, so I'm totally confused.

    Zombiedoll
    Community Member
    6 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yeah this one isn't right. There's no wooded area this close to the torii gate....Don't believe everything you see on the internet.

    Celeste Murray
    Community Member
    5 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This is at Hakone-jinja Shrine, and that is what the line in the woods looks like for it.

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    Giulio Verdekiwi
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Both picture are taken in Hakone, on a small shrine near the lake. That being said… I didn’t found anyone when I been there, so I’m either very lucky, or the picture on the right was taken on a sunday afternoon ir during public holiday

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    #6

    A woman in a red swimsuit poses in serene waters; reality shows a crowded scene with people in life vests highlighting photo truths.

    roemer_productions Report

    Ravenkbh
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    They're trying to find out where she went

    Lee451 Henderson
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Why are they wearing life vests in butt deep water?

    Motivated sloth
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Is there…some other sort of water activity going on or, do people just wear life vests in flat, (not even) waist deep water? Genuine question, have gone to beaches with actual waves my whole life and I don’t recall seeing it.

    BoredSomm
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    If I'm not mistaken, this is Emerald Cave in the south of Thailand. The reason for the vests is that you have to swim through a narrow, dark passing before reaching the open-air inner part of the cave.

    Toika Gao
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Why is there a b itch in every fountain in these posts? B itch pollution!

    “In the beginning, we’d just play with color and lighting,” Parth explains. “We wanted the food to look fresh and appealing, not dull or off-color. No one wants to scroll past a sad-looking samosa.”

    The goal was always to capture the real thing, just the tastiest, most tempting version of it. “We never made it fake,” he adds. “We just helped the food shine a little brighter on camera.”

    #7

    Insta vs Reality beach scene; a deserted sandbar vs crowded beach with tourists taking photos.

    roemer_productions Report

    Jay Scales
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The long shadows and pale blue light in the first pic would indicate very early morning

    #8

    Insta vs. reality: A woman poses in a flowing orange dress with hot air balloons, contrasted by a crowded lookout spot.

    roemer_productions Report

    turk
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Cappadocia, Turkey. And it can certainly be like the left picture. You can see the balloons from the entire area. Unfortunately, we got grounded due to winds in the morning when we were there.

    BarfyCat
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I feel lucky to have visited there before social media was a thing and very few tourists even knew it existed.

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    #9

    "Torii gate walkway with no people vs crowded path, highlighting Instagram vs Reality humor."

    sarahyak_ Report

    YukiChou
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The insta is possible,very early in the morning, run as fast as you can to the back, snap a shot. Not everyone goes all the way.

    El Cucuy
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Looks like Senbon Torii (Thousand Torii Gates) in Kyoto. It is very possible to get the first shot even during midday. I went during the day and while the first half was relatively crowded in spots, many people do not do the full loop and instead turn back at the halfway point. The second half was mostly just my friend and I.

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    rullyman
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I got the left hand side view because I was in Kyoto in March 2020, just as Covid restrictions hit. A lot of people had cancelled travel, so there was only a few Japanese people there. I'd started a new job, at a travel agency... great timing (not). Had to fly home on one of the last planes out of KIX. My plane had only about 7 passengers on it.

    Christos Arvanitis
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We were just there. You have to go very very very early in the morning

    Zombiedoll
    Community Member
    6 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    We went there early morning and there were only a few people so my photos are just like the one on the left.

    Nirdavo
    Community Member
    7 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    While both shots are in Fushimi inari taisha in Kyoto, they are not taken at the same spot. That being said, outside of early morning and late evening it -is- usually very crowded. But if you are lucky and have a few other visitors cooperating, you can get the shot on the left even during early afternoon.

    Giulio Verdekiwi
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That is actually a very kind shot. Reality is much more crowded!! Go early guys!

    Pittsburgh rare
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I think Memoirs of a Geisha made this even more popular

    Over time, though, the game leveled up. “Now, there are so many new elements,” Parth continues. “The background, props, lighting setup, even the angle of the spoon, all of it matters. We make sure every part of the photo works in sync. From the first scroll to the final swipe, every detail has to look just right.” Because in today’s world, food styling is part creativity, part strategy.

    Things got even more precise when brand deals started rolling in. “Once brands start paying you,” Parth says, “you can’t wing it anymore. They have specific visions and expectations. Every photo needs to fit into a campaign or vibe they’ve already built. And we totally get that, it’s their product, their story.”

    #10

    Instgram vs. Reality: Pristine beach on left contrasts with crowded shore on right, showing truth behind perfect photos.

    travel.reality Report

    Dances with Bees
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Same beach as above. I think it's a filming location of a film that Dicaprio was in and that the beach was closed or has limited access because of that.

    Becky Samuel
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    They had to bring in restrictions a couple of years ago because of the huge destruction that the waves of tourists brought to the area.

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    Nix
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I don't like crowds either, but how hypocritical is it to get mad at other people for visiting a beautiful spot that you yourself are also visiting

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    #12

    Instagram vs Reality: A woman posing stylishly in an archway versus the true muddy scene behind it.

    wherenextnicole Report

    Julie S
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Wouldn't want to land in that mud in white trousers.

    Susan
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The one on the left is just being more creative

    Pasty Girl
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This is down the road from where I live. Yes, it gets muddy but also yes, you can easily take a cool photo like this one.

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    “It’s a lot like making a movie,” he explains. “In films, actors have stylists, lighting experts, and makeup artists to look perfect for a role. For us, the food is the star. We treat every item, be it a burger, smoothie, or plate of fries as if it’s heading to the red carpet. Everything needs to be styled, lit, and shot to fit the brief.” It’s serious business and surprisingly artistic too.

    #13

    Social media vs reality at Mont Saint-Michel; pristine path vs man standing in muddy water.

    chronically44 Report

    Az Oz
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Mont Saint-Michel is known for its quick sand

    Winnie the Moo
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    And what is that green supposed to even be?

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    Nuray Turkkan
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This is a tidal island. In low tide a causeway is revealed and visitors are able to walk to the castle. During high tide there are boats to access the castle. However it looks very different to the left picture even during low tide.

    rullyman
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The Cornish one, St Michael's Mount, has a stone path leading up to it, so there's no risk of this unless you're being silly.

    Syrah
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    If I remember correctly so does the French one as my MIL drove us there, lol

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    Tom Brincefield
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    If the left one isn't just photoshop, it's from a mile or two inland to get the green fields.

    Ms.GB
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    How is this the same?

    Jon Steensen
    Community Member
    7 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    if you find Mont Saint Michel on Google Earth, you will see that it is build on an island in the sea. There is quite a significant tide in the area, so during the low tide, the sea floor is exposed and is wet sand/mud that you can sink into like shown on the right. The land behind the costline is a little higher, and is full of green vegatation, and probably quite wet, with occational floods that cuts winding "canals" into the ground. Use a tele objective and a low angle of view, and you can "hide" the sea beneath the elevated edge of the cost, and create a "false" horisont that way.

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    #14

    "Comparison of beach photos showing the difference between Instagram and reality with people on rocky shore."

    joe_smith2002 Report

    Pittsburgh rare
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It's not crowded and you only have to wait for high tide. Not nearly as bad as others in this list

    OpheliaPoe
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Wide angle lens, camera angle, color correction during editing. This one would not be too hard to recreate. This just takes a few photo skills, and I say this not to criticize anyone but to encourage! Art is for everyone :)

    Susan
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I think a lot of people forget about the artistry of photography and just assume everything looks exactly like that.

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    #15

    Instagram vs. reality: Eiffel Tower beautifully lit vs. nearby trash cans and litter at night.

    nonn.j Report

    Ivona
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The Eiffel Tower is impressive. If someone chooses to take a picture of some trash (which is not at the Tower), that's too bad.

    HF
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The park around the actual tower is pretty gross, actually. The park you usually see in pics with the Eiffel tower is Jardins du Trocadéro which is just across the Seine river

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    Susan
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    People are so gross. "Let's go visit something beautiful and then leave our trash there!"

    Zombiedoll
    Community Member
    6 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    They have trash in Paris, what a shock. The Eiffel Tower is still very beautiful.

    “Take burgers, for example,” Parth laughs. “In commercials, the patty looks super juicy and crisp, right? That’s because we use clever tricks, like brushing it with oil or using steam to make it look fresh.” It’s all about highlighting the textures and layers. Lettuce fluffed, sesame seeds arranged just so, cheese melted at the right angle, it’s more setup than snack.

    #16

    Beach scene showing Instagram vs. reality with an empty, serene beach on the left and a crowded beach on the right.

    mathildedldr Report

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    #17

    Insta vs. reality: a staged photo vs. candid shots at a popular tourist spot.

    due_zaini_in_viaggio Report

    rullyman
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The reflection isn't "real". There are vendors who will take a photo for you, and they hold a mirror beneath the phone in a certain way to create this effect.

    Shelli Aderman
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That’s exactly what’s happening in the second picture…

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    #18

    Insta vs. Reality: Woman poses at pristine beach, while the actual crowded beach scene unfolds next to it.

    roemer_productions Report

    Tonyah Mcanelly
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This doesn't even look like the same beach unless its at a different vantage point

    MalayDragon
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'd also say that in addition to it not being the same beach or a different vantage point, clearly the weather in the second photograph is horrible compared to the first picture. Look how much sand is being blown around by the wind.

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    CurlyFry
    Community Member
    7 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'm pretty sure her hand is curving on left photo, or I just have bad eyesight.

    And then there’s cold coffee. “To get it looking just right,” Parth shares, “we sometimes use fake ice cubes that won’t melt under studio lights. Real ice turns cloudy or disappears too fast."

    "These tricks keep the coffee looking icy and delicious all through the shoot.” The goal is to create an image that instantly makes you crave a sip, even if the glass itself is not exactly ready to drink.

    #19

    Insta vs. Reality: Two people in a canoe on vibrant green water versus murky, less ideal conditions.

    qeeq.com Report

    Smeghead Tribble Down Under
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'd rather be there when the water's NOT green, thank you.

    Giulio Verdekiwi
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It’s actually some algae floating on the surface. If.. there are boats around moving the water of course

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    Daniel Atkins
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The green might be duck weed. Millions of small aquatic plants that float on top of the water. Looks like the water is unhealthy but this is quite natural.

    Lee451 Henderson
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The green has no ripples in it. Photoshop is my bet.

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    Pittsburgh rare
    Community Member
    8 months ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I like the reality better

    Tonyah Mcanelly
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The insta photo looks like it's AI

    Deta Rossiter
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    that green should be seeds, or spores. sonot the same season even

    Motivated sloth
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The fact that the water isn’t disturbed by their oars should be a very telling feature.

    Susan
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Behind the boat you can see where the tiny green plants have separated and the dark water is visible.

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    #20

    Insta vs. reality: Serene coastal view with model; crowded tourist scene underline photo perfection myths.

    carlagoesabroad Report

    OpheliaPoe
    Community Member
    8 months ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Sunrise vs sunset? If you want the place to yourself for a photo (and as a photographer I often do) you need to scope out a spot and at least one backup choice in advance, get there before dawn, basically "claiming" your specific spot. In my experience other photographers who have done the same are respectful of this and will either take turns or set up nearby. There's a spot in Canyonlands National Park that comes to mind where people like to photograph the sunrise through an arch. I've seen several photographers set up a few feet apart and having tried a few angles there, you can basically get the same coveted shot this way. It takes effort to get photos that look magical, to some it's worth it, if it's not to you just enjoy to view you and everyone else came to see.

    OpheliaPoe
    Community Member
    8 months ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Other options: AI editing to remove other people, taking lots of photos of the same shot using a tripod and layering them in photoshop, or lots of waiting around being ready to get that photo at that rare second when no one else is in the frame. But again, all these images that have a breezy effortless appearance take quite a bit of effort, in one way or another, to achieve.

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    William Teach
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    A bunch of morons waiting in line to take an Insta photo.

    Bored Sailor
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Again different areas, one spot could be private and the other public.

    PFD
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I think the people on the right are queuing for their chance to take the picture on the left.

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    #21

    Social media vs reality comparison: glowing water scene on left, dimly lit sand on right, showcasing photo differences.

    tasteourworld Report

    Marianne
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I had the great opportunity to swim in bioluminescent plankton and it was exactly like the first picture. Pure magic! It's just difficult to capture that in a photo.

    Breadcrumb.
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Light pollution and you won't even see it.

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    Nimitz
    Community Member
    8 months ago

    This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

    Ah yes, doesn't it look good as I swim through this giant slimy pile of algae. Enjoy your vomiting, diarrhea, and rashes!

    rullyman
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It's bioluminescent phytoplankton, not algae.

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    “Of course,” he adds, “the food we feature is absolutely delicious. We never fake the taste. But for the campaign or Instagram feed, it has to look a certain way. People eat with their eyes first. If something looks bland or flat, they won’t even read the caption. So yes, a little styling goes a long way. It’s not deception, it’s presentation.”

    #22

    Insta vs. reality at Barracuda Lake, Coron, showing calm waters vs. busy tourists in life vests.

    roemer_productions Report

    Susan
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Do you expect to just be airdropped in? No? Then you would obviously have to get in somewhere.

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    #23

    Person in red dress in an ideal Insta setting vs. crowded reality with lots of silver balloons, illustrating Insta vs. reality.

    qeeq.com Report

    Motivated sloth
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I think it’s more fun when people attend your party.

    Susan
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Before party vs during party. If it never looks like the second picture then that's a pretty sad party.

    #24

    Instagram vs. Reality: A vibrant pink landscape compared to its natural view, highlighting the truth behind perfect photos.

    travel Report

    Jrog
    Community Member
    8 months ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That one is pure photoshop. Color shifting the green into pink.

    rullyman
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It's not photoshop, it's a photographic technique. Infrared photography.

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    Motivated sloth
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Who believed that Instagram photo?

    azubi
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    reality is still impressive

    turk
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Isn't this more of a seasonal thing?

    OpheliaPoe
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Heavy saturation, possibly altering bgg the greens to pink?

    KazzaHazza
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I don’t think I could walk over that without freaking out.

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    “So, while not everything you see online is 100% raw and unfiltered, that doesn’t mean it’s fake either. It just means there’s more happening behind the scenes than meets the eye. A little lighting, some props, maybe even a sneaky ice cube or two. It’s all part of telling a story. The next time you see a drool-worthy dish online, just know a lot of thought probably went into it,” Parth concludes.

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    #25

    Insta vs Reality: Curved shelves filled with books versus printed spines on a flat wall surface.

    trystane Report

    Marianne
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Ok, that one is the first true disappointment in this list.

    Deta Rossiter
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    thought this was common knowledge

    #26

    Split image: left side shows perfect scenic Instagram photo, right side reveals mundane reality with a tunnel.

    qeeq.com Report

    Lyone Fein
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Just showing a different angle doesn’t contradict the original photograph, IMO.

    Nina
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It seems to show the line to get the 'unique' photograph, which does give a different perspective

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    #27

    Insta vs. Reality: Woman in serene spa vs. crowded scene, revealing the truth behind perfect photos.

    travel.reality Report

    Johnnynatfan
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    There is nothing wrong with either picture. That looks like the Blue Lagoon in Iceland. Ive had the pleasure of being there and had an awesome time. Yes There were other people there but that made it more fun. We met some young ladies from the UK and had a fun time hanging out with them.

    DowntownStevieB
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Do Instagrammers ever look AT the camera?

    turk
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Blue Lagoon, Iceland

    Motivated sloth
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I’ll take either picture any day.

    Zombiedoll
    Community Member
    6 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    There's other people in the lagoon, so what? I've been to the Blue Lagoon in several times and it's gorgeous. We always find some other travelers to chat with and that's part of the fun.

    And it’s not just food photos; these posts show how travel pics go through their own glow-up too. From removing the crowd to adjusting the sky to just the right shade of dreamy, a lot happens before that snap lands on your feed. Which one of these posts surprised you the most? Or made you laugh a little louder than you expected? Share it with someone who needs that reminder that even the most “effortless” photos sometimes take, well, a lot of effort.

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    #28

    Insta vs. Reality showing a person on a sunny mountain vs. a foggy hike, illustrating photo perfection and truth.

    roemer_productions Report

    Jaya
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It sucks a little bit of course, when you hike to the top of a mountain and can't see the amazing view because it's too misty. But I'm pretty sure everyone already knows there's a chance of bad or mediocre weather.

    #29

    Instagram vs. reality comparison of a rooftop bed with scenic view versus messy setting.

    qeeq.com Report

    Jaya
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This one is simply the difference between knowing how to make a beautiful photo and not knowing.

    Lee451 Henderson
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The bed looks slightly better in the first picture

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    Rachel Pelz
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I thought this one was about expecting to find tje young woman there...

    Leslie Victor
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    So many whiners...i would be happy to just go on a vacation!! Shut the front door!

    Nina
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Clearly shows the BTS can be fairly different to the pretty shot

    #30

    Insta vs. Reality comparison of a forest scene showing edited vibrant colors vs. natural look.

    qeeq.com Report

    Jaya
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Looks so mystical and beautiful.

    Pittsburgh rare
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Well, if you photoshop the hell out of a place it's not gonna look the same. Duh

    Rachel Pelz
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Consider there are different seasons, possibly?

    #31

    Insta vs. reality on a boat: left shows a scenic pose, right shows a person covered with a towel.

    travelguyss Report

    Marianne
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Forgot sunscreen? This seems to be a personal problem, tbh.

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    #32

    Woman in hat poses on scenic hill for perfect Instagram photo; reality shows a group with tripods capturing the scene.

    roemer_productions Report

    Jaya
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Camera angles make a lot of difference, who knew?

    Marie Clear
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    TIL time of day and sunlight makes a difference too.

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    Ma Fra
    Community Member
    7 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This one is just stupid, 'cause Tuscany has a lot of similar places like this. It makes no sense to stay all in the same place.

    #33

    Insta vs. Reality: A woman on a scenic swing, contrasted with a man on a dull swing in the same pose.

    roemer_productions Report

    sbj
    Community Member
    Premium
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I love the expression on his face

    PFD
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That's... the point? From the first picture, it looks like you're hanging over the void. So it's disappointing to find it's just a trick angle (if you're looking for the experience not the photo).

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    #34

    Insta vs. reality in Bali: perfect tropical poolside vs. muddy riverbank scene.

    victoria_goulbourne Report

    Lyone Fein
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Maybe you need to go to the same resort?

    WhatsSleep?
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It is, the full video shows the person panning from the first shot to the second shot directly next to the resort

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    Susan
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Manicured resort property vs off resort property that's not maintained?

    Nix
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yep, all the money goes to maintain resorts for spoiled tourists while the people that live there all the time have to contend with much worse conditions

    #35

    Instagram vs. reality humor showing a woman posing alone and then waiting with people for the perfect photo.

    rominameier Report

    OpheliaPoe
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yep, waiting in line is the key to getting A LOT of those special photos in amazing places. As long as you know that and anticipate it you won't be disappointed.

    William Teach
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    None of these people go to any of these places to enjoy them, just to get their Main character Syndrome photos then leave

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    #36

    Person posing on ocean swing vs reality of swing setup on beach, showcasing perfect photos contrast.

    roemer_productions Report

    Corwin 02
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    so wait for the f*****g tide to come in

    Lila Allen
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yeah there's a previous one where it's high tide vs low tide.

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    #37

    Insta vs. Reality: Woman hiking on a scenic trail vs. tired man struggling uphill in nature.

    roemer_productions Report

    OpheliaPoe
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Lol, I can relate, the behind the scenes is so often more effort than anticipated.

    rullyman
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You gotta walk uphill to walk downhill! Unless you use the cable car ;)

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    Susan
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Who knew taking a picture walking along the side of a mountain required exertion?

    #38

    Instagram vs. reality: a scenic view with fewer people vs. crowded path by the ocean.

    royrichardo19 Report

    Leslie Victor
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    These all seem to be people who want to duplicate photographs, save your money and photoshop it if that is all you want, better yet send me the round trip tickets and i will take hundreds of cool photos of things you were too short sighted to find for yourself....

    Susan
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    View looks the same. How dare anyone else want to take the same photo, though!

    #39

    Insta vs. reality: Woman poses by a scenic lake, with scaffolding and construction in surrounding area showing the truth.

    roemer_productions Report

    Carl Roberts
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Oh come on. I hate "influencers" as much as everyone else, but should this really be on here? The second pic was obviously taken during a remodel/reconstruction project.

    Nimitz
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That's just it. It's common to break into construction sites to get THE pic. Screw safety laws and private property because s****y people want to lie about their lives

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    #40

    Insta vs Reality: lush island from boat view vs. dry and rocky reality with house on stilts.

    travel.reality Report

    Crystal Spencer
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Only because it's low tide on the 2nd photo...

    Lyone Fein
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    For so many of these, this is the type of difference that the article is complaining about.

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    Deta Rossiter
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    reality is knowing about tides, and talking to the locals. num nuts

    kayteeisdabomb
    Community Member
    8 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This is so silly, just wait for tide to be in