How to cite an Instagram post in Chicago

Chicago style Instagram post citation

To cite an Instagram post in a reference entry in Chicago style 17th edition include the following elements:

  1. Author(s) of the post (@handle): Give the name and, user handle in parenthesis.
  2. Text of the Instagram post: Add the first sentence or the most important words to describe the post.
  3. Date of posting: Give the month, day and year of publication.
  4. URL: Give the full URL from the direct source. Include http:// or https://.

Here is the basic format for a reference list entry of an Instagram post in Chicago style 17th edition:

Author(s) of the post (@handle). "Text of the Instagram post." Instagram, Date of posting. URL.

Take a look at our reference list examples that demonstrate the Chicago style guidelines in action:

Examples

The Instagram post of an illustrator

Norris, Alex (@webcomic_name). ".....#webcomicname." Instagram, June 26, 2019. http://www.instagram.com/p/BzLoUCWHZse/.

The Instagram post of a celebrity

Lady Gaga (@ladygaga). "To the launch of #HAUSLABORATORIES. Cheers to a wonderful day 1." Instagram, July 16, 2019. http://www.instagram.com/p/Bz9q87wlxGl/.

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