This article exists as part of the online archive for HuffPost Australia, which closed in 2021.

Instagram Turns 5, A Look Back At How Australians Use The Photo Sharing App

Instagram Turns 5, A Look Back At How Aussies Have Embraced It
Colorful vintage pastel balloons
Andrea Carolina Sanchez Gonzalez/Getty Images
Colorful vintage pastel balloons

Five years ago today, two Stanford fellows turned a little idea into a billion dollar business -- a simple photo sharing application, called Instagram.

Fast-forward to 2015 and it’s hard to imagine a life without the double-tap. From birthday milestones and vacations to brunch and #OOTD posts -- the smartphone app has become an extension of everyday life -- and one we’re far from willing to give up any time soon.

Australians have been using the platform to capture moments that matter from major sporting events to wild weather, connecting people in real-time and turning the most amateur photographer into a master artisan.

From its birth in San Francisco to founders Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger in 2010, we take a look back at some of the most memorable snapshots from Australian users -- from bushfires and poll days to sunsets at some of our country's most picturesque spots.

When winter approaches and our cities light up at Vivid Sydney, Enlighten Festival in Canberra and White Night in Melbourne.

On the days the nation comes together to celebrate or reflect on Anzac Day and Australia Day.

Back when life was beachy #cottesloe #australiaday #perth #havaianas #floatingaround

A photo posted by Remmy T (@rem.is.boss) on

When wild weather hit Sydney which was the worst weather conditions recorded in eight years.

Water front living, 📷from our front door. #sydney

A photo posted by Joshua Heath (@joshuaheathstylist) on

When the snow came early to southern parts of Australia.

Good morning winter #jindabyne #home

A photo posted by amymechielsen (@amybeckinsale) on

When bushfires raged around Sydney in 2013, people shared their experience of the smoke, the flames and the firefighters battling the blaze.

When we go to the polls.

Democracy in action. #Ausvotes

A photo posted by @trishviathere on

The best thing about voting. #ausvotes #voting #australia #belowtheline

A photo posted by Aidan (@aids_2437) on

When we show our support for issues we're passionate about.

I just had to post this. #illridewithyou #australia #aussie

A photo posted by @amateur_photographer._ on

When we share our hometown pride.

Sunset at Glenelg Jetty, South Australia. #adelaide www.robertdowniephotography.com Love Life, Love Photography

A photo posted by Robert Downie (@intrepidphotos) on

This guy - cruising King Street. Spotted in Newtown.

A photo posted by Humans of Newtown (@humansofnewtown) on

Close
This article exists as part of the online archive for HuffPost Australia. Certain site features have been disabled. If you have questions or concerns, please check our FAQ or contact support@huffpost.com.