Do I need to ask permission before reposting a customer's photo on my boutique's Instagram?
Yes, always ask permission. Build it into your campaign from the start by stating in your hashtag invitation that posting with the hashtag grants you permission to feature their photo.
You should always get permission before reposting customer photos, but the smartest approach is to build consent into your campaign structure so it happens automatically. Your post-purchase automation email and your Highlight invitation slide should clearly state that by posting with your campaign hashtag, customers give you permission to feature their photo on your account.
For any photos you discover outside your hashtag — say a customer tagged your boutique but didn't use the campaign hashtag — send a quick, friendly direct message asking permission before you repost. This only takes a moment and protects you from potential issues.
This permission step also serves a secondary purpose: it creates another touchpoint of personal connection with your customer. When you DM someone asking to feature their photo, you're reinforcing that their content matters to your brand. That personal interaction often leads to them posting again in the future, creating a virtuous cycle of content and engagement.
Listen to the full episode: Episode 23: How Aerie Built a Community Movement That Tripled Engagement — Launch Your Boutique Version This Week
More answers from this episode
- How can I reduce my boutique's content creation time using customer photos?
- How do I create a branded hashtag that customers will actually use?
- How do I get customers to post photos wearing my boutique's clothes?
- How do I recognize and feature customers on Instagram to drive more UGC?
- How do I repost customer photos without ruining my Instagram feed aesthetic?
- How do I set up a post-purchase email that asks customers for UGC photos?
Source: BoutiquePulse podcast. Last updated: 2026-05-28 · Sourcing & methodology · Corrections log