How to Find Instagram Account ID by Photo: 5 Methods
Katherine Young
With billions of photos uploaded daily, finding the real owner of an Instagram image or verifying someone’s identity is no longer just a curiosity—it’s often a crucial step for safety, privacy, and digital reputation. This topic is essential for anyone wanting to protect themselves from scams, catfishing, or identity misuse on social platforms. Relying on false methods or unverified tools not only wastes time, but can result in misidentifying people, spreading misinformation, or even exposing sensitive data. The negative impact of these mistakes includes privacy violations, failed investigations, or inadvertently trusting fraudulent accounts. That is why using comprehensive, well-researched, and trusted techniques—backed by unbiased, up-to-date recommendations—is vital. A professional approach helps ensure that your search is accurate, insightful, and safe, giving you peace of mind in an ever-evolving digital world.
After spending over 100 hours testing 15 methods and 20 tools, I have handpicked the most effective techniques. My guide offers a comprehensive, unbiased and transparent breakdown. It is backed by credible, well‑researched insight to help readers select the right method. Read more…
Social Catfish is a reverse image search tool that allows you to safely browse social media and online dating sites. Its image search feature to help me find an account on Instagram. You can also use it to discover if your images are used by others online.
Can you find an Instagram ID by Photo?
Finding an Instagram account by photo is easy yet tricky. The success of finding an Insta account by photo highly depends on your method.
Instagram doesn’t offer a direct reverse photo search service; therefore, you will have to use third-party applications to find an account using a picture. Below, I have mentioned all the methods that helped me successfully find an account using a photo.
Method 1: How to Find Instagram Account by Photo using third-party tools
Finding an Instagram account from a photo can be quite seamless with specialized third-party tools. From my experience, leveraging these platforms gives the most comprehensive results—especially when you need to confirm someone’s online identity before any collaboration or personal interaction. Here are the tools that I used for my quest for discovering an Instagram account from a photo:
1) Social Catfish
I’ve found Social Catfish particularly effective when cross-checking image-based social profiles. It stands out due to its advanced visual search algorithms and its ability to deliver deep-dives across numerous databases. It’s especially handy for users wanting to spot image misuse, uncover duplicate accounts, or even help law enforcement in online fraud investigations. Notably, I once used Social Catfish to trace a viral meme image back to its original creator, helping them secure proper credit. The platform’s flexibility, offering unlimited searches and detailed background reports, makes it ideal for agencies and individuals alike.
Social Networks: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram
Find Copyrighted Photos: Yes
Free Trial: 3-Day Trial for $6.87
Features:
- Unlimited Search: No matter the plan you select, you can run an unlimited search. For research purposes, I used its 3-day paid trial, which cost me $6.87. It offered a complete report on several famous influencers, one such personality was Diana Korkunova, who has 1.3 million followers on Instagram currently. In fact, I also found her clothing brand’s Insta account named Yandi World.
- Search history: I like Social Catfish’s convenient search history storage feature, which lets me save my searches. This way, I do not have to start any search from scratch and can simply use the history to see my results.
- Detailed report: Looking at its report, I realized it could be very helpful for investigations as it provides you access to over 200 billion records. Its report includes social profiles, email, usernames, education, contact details, images, relationships, and more.
- Background check: With the help of its background check, you can get details on their marriage, divorce, and even criminal offenses. This helps you maintain your safety if you want to meet someone you have only talked to online before committing to a date.
Pros
Cons
3-Day Trial at $5.73
For Detailed Features – Click Here +Instagram Account Finder by Photo using Social Catfish
Here is a step-by-step procedure to find an Instagram ID Search by image using Social Catfish:
Step 1) Go to the Social Catfish https://socialcatfish.com/reverse-image-search/ page.
Step 2) Here, I uploaded an image of the influencer model Diana and clicked on Search. You can also browse the image and upload it on its search bar.
Step 3) Once I hit Search, it began its process and asked for my email address after completing the search.
Step 4) After entering my email ID, I had to make a payment. I selected the 3-day paid trial available for $6.87 and received the report.
In the report, in addition to her phone number and address, I received her Instagram username, email address, other social media account details, images, education, and more.
Challenges and Mitigation:
At times, results may not surface if the image is low quality or the profile is private. I recommend using high-resolution images and cross-referencing with other methods for higher accuracy.
3-Day Trial at $5.73
2) Spokeo
Spokeo became my go-to tool when I tested various services to find Instagram IDs from images. I tested its capabilities over different scenarios and was able to get profile insights in seconds. What stood out was how effortlessly it pulls from multiple sources to form a complete social profile. I found that it is ideal for people who want an Instagram ID finder by photo that feels intuitive yet powerful. Keep in mind, it might be helpful to cross-check results for accuracy, but Spokeo definitely makes that process smoother. Typically, digital marketers benefit from using it to verify influencers or clients before campaigns.
Features:
- Social Media Integration: It links the targeted person’s social media and dating profile. However, I have found some links that need to be more accurate and updated.
- Public Records Access: Spokeo accesses publicly available records and databases to extract data about a person. However, at times, the data is not fully accurate.
- Search Results: The search results may contain various details including, but not limited to, address, legal name, family, location, and age.
- Security: SSL and modern safety standards secure all your financial details and personal account information.
Pros
Cons
7-Day Trial for $0.95
For Detailed Features – Click Here +Instagram ID Finder by Photo using Spokeo
Follow these steps to find Instagram account by photo using Spokeo:
Step 1) Go to the Spokeo https://www.spokeo.com/ page.
Step 2) Type their username in the Search bar, click on Search Now, and allow it to process.
Step 3) Once the search was complete, I clicked on “Unlock Full Result” and hit Continue to pay $0.95 for a one-time report.
Challenges and Mitigation:
Some data may be outdated or incomplete. To offset this, cross-check results on other platforms and always verify information through multiple sources.
7-Day Trial for $0.95
3) TinEye
If your goal is comprehensive web-wide image tracking, TinEye’s reverse image search is a reliable choice. I often use it to monitor copyright infringement or locate instances where brand visuals have been reused without consent. For instance, a fashion label discovering its campaign images on unofficial pages can quickly trace and address unauthorized reposts through TinEye. Its ability to work with both high and low resolution images adds to its appeal for brands and creators.
Features:
- Image tracking: TinEye can help you track images to see where and how they are being used. Hence, once I uploaded an image of a user, it showed me where it was used and brought up their Instagram account.
- MatchEngine: With the help of MatchEngine, I could verify if an image provided by my online date was valid. It turns out they provided me with genuine pictures that were also uploaded to their Instagram account. However, it took me a few tries with certain images they provided as TinEye came back without results and displayed “Oops, something went wrong” or indicated it did not have them in its database.
- Works on blurry images: TinEye can perform reverse search even on blurry images. I have tried it on low-resolution Google images, and it could quickly find similar results.
- MulticolorEngine: If you are looking for a fabric brand, art, or fashion account on Instagram for a collab or other purposes, its MulticolorEngine will come in handy. It helps users find images based on colors as it can read the percentage of every shade separately.
Pros
Cons
How to find an Instagram ID by photo using TinEye
Here are the steps that I used to find an Instagram ID by photo using TinEye:
Step 1) Visit the https://tineye.com/ official website and upload an image or paste a URL in the respective places.
Step 2) To indicate the steps I have uploaded an image of a bird which was available on Google and was captured and uploaded on a wildlife photography Insta account. Once you upload an image it will automatically perform the search.
Step 3) After the search is complete, you will receive similar images and links next to them. Look through all the results and click on the link that indicates an Instagram account to find your target.
Challenges and Mitigation:
TinEye’s database may miss some matches, especially newer uploads. For the best results, supplement searches with different image variants or try other reverse image tools.
Link: https://tineye.com/
xmobi is an advanced image recognition tool designed to help you find Instagram account IDs using photos. It provides a user-friendly and secure platform that allows you to quickly and accurately match images to Instagram profiles without the need to log into your own account.
4) Berify
Berify is my preferred platform for extensive image tracking, especially when working with bulk images or complex cross-platform investigations. The tool caters well to photographers and marketing teams aiming to protect visual assets online. It was a great option for reverse image searches when trying to find Instagram account by photo. I tested the free version and received useful results on multiple uploads. It helped me locate several instances where images were reposted without consent. Berify’s integration with various upload options like Dropbox or RSS feeds makes large-scale tracking straightforward.
Features:
- Multiple images: It saved a lot of my time as its paid plans let you upload bulk images at once (note that I only tried paid plans’ free duration). I connected it to my social media, uploaded multiple images of my target from Pinterest, and found their Instagram account.
- Multiple platforms: Berify helped me upload images from multiple platforms seamlessly. It lets me use sitemaps, RSS feeds, Dropbox, website links, social media platforms, and more.
- Use cases: This tool can be used by photographers and models to track the usage of their original pictures. I’d say Berify is also quite useful for vloggers, lawyers, marketing agencies, and individuals who want to manage their online reputation.
- Pro API: Users who want to use its API can try its Pro API. It can verify images better and has a larger database. However, it is only for people with a lot of official work related to reverse image search, as it costs much more than the usual Berify. I recommend you use its regular version unless you are an agency, a serious photographer or your work and life depend on reverse image search.
Pros
Cons
How to Find Instagram Id by Photo using Berify
Here is a step-by-step procedure to find an Instagram Account by Picture using Berify:
Step 1) Go to https://berify.com/ and upload an image to its search bar. Browse for the image you want to use and tap on Search. You can also upload a sitemap or RSS for bulk uploads.
Step 2) Berify has three plans; I signed up for its 3-day free trial plan, which helped me search for multiple images. However, you can also use its free plan.
Step 3) After I signed up, I received the results within a minute.
Challenges and Mitigation:
Batch uploads require a paid plan, and free searches have limitations. Start with the trial, and escalate to paid tiers if you need to monitor a high volume of images.
Link: https://berify.com/
Method 2: Find Instagram Account by Photo using Search Engines
Search engines like Google Images and Bing Visual Search can be surprisingly effective for reverse image lookups. In my routine investigations, I often use these platforms to track where an image appears online, which sometimes leads directly to the associated Instagram account. For example, a bakery wanting to see how its cake photos spread online might uncover unexpected social mentions or business reviews through these searches.
1) Google Images
Google Images lets you upload an image, drag and drop it, or paste a link. I find it quite easy to use, and its humongous database makes it a reliable source for reverse image searches. Using this tool, I could also crop the picture within the site and find cropped results of the same image.
You may not luck out on finding the Instagram account always, but you will find similar results, even pictures of the same person or object taken from different angles. However, in my case, I did find the cake shop’s account that I wanted to locate on Instagram.
How to Find Instagram Account by Photo using Google Images
Follow these steps to find the Instagram account by photo:
Step 1) Go to https://images.google.com/ and click on the camera icon to upload a photo; drag and drop it from your PC, or paste a link and hit the Search button.
Step 2) After I uploaded the image, it quickly brought up the Instagram account that I wanted to find.
Step 3) I clicked on the link, visited the account, and followed it instantly.
Link: https://images.google.com/
2) Bing Visual Search
Bing Visual Search was one of the most effective tools I checked while working on How to Find Instagram Account ID by Photo. I was able to identify subtle differences in results just by cropping the image differently. That flexibility makes it perfect for locating profiles behind a picture. In my experience, it works especially well for lifestyle and travel photos, where context plays a big role. If your goal is to find Instagram account by photo, it is important to know this tool can offer matches beyond what traditional search engines do.
Find Instagram Id by Photo using Bing
Here are the steps that I used to find the Instagram account by photo on Bing:
Step 1) I visited the https://www.bing.com/visualsearch site, browsed for the image on my PC, and uploaded it. You can also use its other options, such as Paste an image or URL, Find an image, or Take a picture.
Step 2) Bing provided the results immediately, and I didn’t even have to click on any Search or magnifying button.
Step 3) I couldn’t find the Instagram account instantly on top, however, I found the celebrity’s name (Sabrina Carpenter) with the same picture that I had uploaded, and it led me to her IG account.
Challenges and Mitigation:
Not every image leads to direct Instagram results due to privacy settings. If you don’t see what you need, try cropping or adjusting the image, or use additional keywords in your search.
Link: https://www.bing.com/visualsearch
Peekviewer is an anonymous Instagram viewer that lets you browse public profiles, stories, and tagged photos without logging in. It’s especially helpful when you want to explore Instagram content related to a specific image or person—discreetly and securely.
Method 3: Find an Instagram Account using Instagram
Sometimes, leveraging Instagram itself offers the simplest path to account discovery, especially when you know some personal details or keywords. For instance, a student searching for their classmate’s art account might use name, hobby, or relevant hashtags to locate the right profile. I recommend this approach when you have contextual clues rather than only a photo. I realized the most powerful and practical method is to find an Instagram account using Instagram itself. It is a great option because it connects your search directly to the social network’s own resources.
I particularly appreciate how easy it is to search, but blurry or filtered photos gave me a tough time. To counter this, I recommend using original or less-edited images because they are typically the most effective for better matching results. However, note that you won’t be able to use their picture to perform a reverse search on IG to find the account. You can only either type their name in the search bar or use tags to locate the account.
Here are the steps to perform the search:
Step 1) Type their name on the search bar: This one time I wanted to look for an old schoolmate of mine so I simply typed their name on the search bar and found her. This method is possible if you know their name or username. Thus, it will not work unless they use their real name for their username or at least have it in their bio.
Step 2) Use Tags: You can use the slightest detail that you may have about them, for example, their hobby, educational background, location, favorite food, or restaurant, for tags. Once you type the tag you can also select accounts and tags category to find them in the results.
For example, I know an individual who goes to the University of San Francisco, hence, I can use hashtags like #Sanfranciscouniversity #Sanfranciscostudents, etc., and see if they are tagged in any of their posts. You can also try their hobbies such as #guitarlessons, #riverrafting, #ballet, #rockclimbing, etc., and use all the tags related to their hobbies to find their account.
Note that the tag method will help you locate them only if they have a public profile or are tagged in an image that has been uploaded to another public profile.
Challenges and Mitigation:
Profiles must be public or tagged in public posts to appear in search. If you don’t find the account, try varying your keywords or use combinations of hashtags and locations.
Method 4: Use Other Social Media to Find Instagram Account by Picture
Another highly effective workaround involves comparing photos across various social media platforms. During my research, I noticed that users often keep the same or similar photos across different social media platforms. For example, an employer verifying a job applicant might spot the same headshot on both LinkedIn and Instagram, confirming authenticity. This consistency typically allows you to cross-reference and find the Instagram account with ease.
Challenges and Mitigation:
There can be a situation where images were heavily filtered or cropped differently. To resolve the issue, you need to check profile bios and usernames carefully, which often offered clues. It is important to stay observant and not rely only on photos.
Method 5: Ask Mutual Friends for Instagram ID
Sometimes, simply reaching out to mutual friends or acquaintances yields the fastest results. I once resolved a similar case where a lost event photo was identified within minutes by group chat connections. This social approach can be both efficient and respectful if handled with proper communication. I tested this method with a few contacts and found it works best when you are polite and upfront. It might be helpful to explain your reason clearly to avoid confusion.
Challenges and Mitigation:
Not everyone will feel comfortable sharing contact information. Clear communication and respect for privacy are key to overcoming reluctance.
How Does Instagram Account Finder by Photo Work?
An Instagram account finder by photo uses image recognition technology to find identical images. These tools scan the web thoroughly to locate similar or duplicate photos and offer links to the source along with the pictures. Here are the steps to have a better idea of thier working process:
Step 1) Simply upload the image, paste a URL link, or drag and drop it into their search bar
Step 2) The tool scans its database for matches using AI image recognition.
Step 3) Object or facial recognition process is used to compare unique features.
Step 4) Results show links to profiles or sites using that image.
Please note: Some tools offer extra info like email, usernames, or social media links. These tools make it simple to track where an image is used and help link photos to Instagram accounts quickly.
Privacy and Legal Risks of Finding Instagram Accounts by Photo
While the methods discussed are legal, using someone’s photo to find their Instagram account raises serious privacy and ethical concerns.
- Unauthorized use of images—especially if not publicly available—may violate the Copyright Act of 1976.
- Data privacy laws like GDPR and CCPA can apply if personal images are misused.
- Instagram’s Community Guidelines prohibit stalking, harassment, and non-consensual image use. Violations may lead to warnings or feature restrictions, shadowbans, or even permanent account suspension
A PR Newswire study by ImageShield found that 1 in 5 Americans have faced online image abuse, rising to 1 in 4 among women aged 18–30. If you’ve experienced stalking, communities like @StopStalkingUsNow on Instagram offer support and survivor stories.
Bottom line: Use ethical methods, respect boundaries, and avoid intrusive behavior. Curiosity is fine—invasion is not
Limitations of Current Technology for Finding Instagram Accounts by Photo
Some of the limitations of current technology in accurately finding accounts from photos and their effects include my observations, along with the general ones.
- Limited data: While using certain tools mentioned in this list, I had to try them several times to find the accurate result. Although some did bring up the account after a few attempts, Tineye failed to deliver it for certain images as it didn’t have it in its database. As a user, due to limited data, I was certainly affected by misclassification and a few inaccurate results.
- Image quality variations: Even if some tools may still recognize a low-quality image, it is not certain that it will return accurate results. On the other hand, a few tools do not bother to play with low-quality images at all. This may lead you to a dead end if all you own is a blurry or grainy picture.
- Complex images: Identifying complex images with numerous objects in the frame may sometimes make it impossible for the tools to bring up results. I tried to look for a certain landscape that had a very noisy background, which confused some of the tools, leading me to several inaccurate findings.
- Unseen objects: If you provide an unseen object to the tools and expect an accurate result, you may receive similar-looking objects that are not even remotely related to what you are looking for. This is due to the generalization of unseen objects.
- Lighting conditions: The image recognition tool may fail to identify a person or an object due to different lights or poor lighting, which can lead to false positives or rejection of the input.
FAQs
Conclusion:
I’ve carefully selected these methods after comparing all available options. They’ve shown reasonable reliability in identifying Instagram accounts through photos, though results aren’t always accurate. Using advanced reverse image search tools like Social Catfish can improve your chances. However, as technology evolves and Instagram updates its privacy policies, outcomes may vary.
