Share

How this Maxim model scared away thousands of Instagram followers

accreditation
British model and creative writer, Stina Sanders did a mini-experiment and started posting her real life on Instagram. Foreign concept for most Instagram stars, I know.

The 24-year-old would normally post images of her bikini shoots, her handsome model boyfriend and her luxurious lifestyle.

But then, Stina decided to give her then 13 000 followers on Instagram a glimpse into her normal life by posting unfiltered images of her getting a facial hair treatment, going to therapy and even going for a colonoscopy.

According to People, in 7 days the model went from 13K to 10K over the ‘unflattering’ images she posted. Stina said that although her following declined, her likes increased on every image she posted.

The Bristol model has gained support from women all over the world, relating to her posts, particularly when she spoke openly about her visit to the psychotherapist.

This opens up a debate about how social media depicts a magnificent and halcyon life, and where we brag about seemingly perfect lifestyles.

Stina told People Magazine that in order to be insta-famous you need to post sexy and glamorous images, saying that social media is seen as escapism from reality that ultimately evokes envy.

This isn’t the first time an Instagram user has told the world about the fake world of being insta-famous. Earlier this month, Australia social media star Essena O’Neill said that the images she posted weren’t a true reflection of her everyday life.

Stina now has over 35 000 followers on Instagram and is currently writing her book on female empowerment.

She used to upload pictures, similar to this:

And then she started posting images like this:

Follow Women24 on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE