Guide – Create your first Pixelfed account (Instagram alternative)
Pixelfed is the decentralized alternative to Instagram: share photos, no algorithm controlling your feed, no ads, full data portability.
Time: 10–20 minutes
Cost: €0
Step 1 – Choose a server (instance)
I don't know which server to choose → click here
Good starters:
Or find an instance on fediverse.observer (filter by language or topic).
Step 2 – Create an account
Step-by-step
- Go to the website of your chosen server (e.g. pixelfed.social)
- Click “Register” or “Sign up”
- Fill in username, email, and password
- Verify your email → done!
Step 3 – Set up your profile
Make it recognizable for your old followers
- Use the same profile picture and bio as on Instagram
- Add your old Instagram handle in your bio (e.g. “Previously @yourname on Instagram”)
- Pin a photo with caption: “Hello Pixelfed! I’ve moved from Instagram.”
Step 4 – Follow people
How do I find my old followers?
- Use Fedifinder: enter your Instagram handle (if known) or search manually
- Or search by name or handle in Pixelfed
- Follow them — they get a notification
Step 5 – Post your first photo
Upload a photo, add a caption, and post!
You are now outside the enclosure.
### Disclaimer
All guides are proposed by the community and reviewed by the OIM core team before going live.
Nevertheless, executing technical steps remains your own responsibility.
The Open Internet Manifest is not liable for damage, data loss, or other issues that may arise from following a guide.
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