​Dos and Don’ts of Instagramming Your Morning Coffee

OK, I’m going to admit something here: I really tire of the endless Instagram posts of people’s meals. Seriously, how often can I see someone’s sandwich or steamed kale? And it’s not just food that people Instagram. A variety of beverages are not immune, and thus I ask the all-important question: Should we be Instagramming our morning coffee?

And here’s where I fall on this crucial life question: It depends. As my parents told me when I was growing up, there’s a time and place. So, with that in mind, I offer what I hope will prove to be a helpful do-and-don’t guide to Instagramming coffee:

Insta-socializing coffee posts: Lose the Donald Trump sense of self-absorbed purpose, unless, of course, you have his hair — and then stand proud because the world needs more Trump hair. But really — it’s not all about you. Don’t make this solely a selfie moment with you and your cup of joe. Include your friends, family and pets. Think variety. Maybe even a collie smoking a pipe next to your steaming cappuccino. Answer: DO.

Daily posts from the same location: Look, we all have a need to feel loved. It’s great to hit up a coffee shop where the barista knows your name and you feel like you own the joint. But come on. There just has to be somewhere else that you’d like to enjoy your coffee. I get it — your apartment surely has many angles to play off of — but go outside and enjoy the fresh air. Answer: DON’T.

Wicked foam designs: Anyone with a pulse or amazing collection of Bon Iver vinyl records loves latte art. From heart shapes to monkeys to Dave Navarro goatees — it almost makes it a shame to drink it … almost. Answer: DO.

Offensive coffee mug displays: OMG. I’m assuming your mother is not Chelsea Handler or Kim Kardashian, so if your mother wouldn’t appreciate your coffee mug, keep it off the Web, OK? Stick with creative mugs that play to humor. See our recent blog, “10 Funniest Coffee Mugs.” Answer: DON’T.

Diversity rules — liven up the picture: Not that we don’t love to post pics of a steaming cup of joe, but really, how much can you do it? It will eventually get old, so mix it up a little. Include your cranberry muffin, a honey croissant, that slice of coffee cake or your egg-white omelette on rye. Coffee with your morning meal is like the Oscars with Neil Patrick Harris — a necessary duo. Answer: DO.

The end takeaway: Be bold. Please DO Instagram your morning coffee. Just be creative with it. A cup of joe comes in many forms. The possibilities are nearly endless.