Perfect shots: KC lifestyle blogger launches Depalo app to guide users to Instagram hot spots
July 2, 2019 | Michaela Kitchen
The perfect Instagram-worthy photo location could be within walking distance right now, said Kansas City-based lifestyle blogger Rebeeca Aneloski.
Rebeeca Aneloski, Depalo
A former Missouri representative on the Miss USA stage, Aneloski launched Depalo in June to help users locate picturesque locations across Kansas City — and eventually the globe, she said.
“I [initially] started a blog to continue connecting with others [after the Miss USA pageant], and it quickly came to my attention that finding awesome spots to take photos is no easy task,” said Aneloski.
Depalo offers GPS directions to colorful and interesting locations from Los Angeles to Miami, New York to Kansas City, as well as providing site-specific tips for capturing the best image.
Click here to download and explore Depalo.
A frequent traveler herself, Aneloski knows the struggles of trying to maintain a social media presence on the go — especially when unfamiliar with the local surroundings, she said. While on a trip to Sedona, Arizona, a couple years ago, she realized the potential for a wayfinding app that could point people to the perfect settings.
“I wanted to find some unique, photo-worthy spots in the area,” she recalled. “I didn’t scout beforehand, the sun was setting, it was a high-traffic season, and I said out loud, ‘I wish there was an app that led me to the exact location of the best photo ops near me at any given moment.’”
Millennials make Instagram opportunities a priority when planning trips, according to a 2018 study by UK-based holiday rental home insurance provider Schofields. Aneloski supports the findings, she said.
“When I travel abroad, I book a hotel in a central location to the photo ops I want to get,” Aneloski said, noting that photo sharing is a top way millennials communicate and share memories.
Businesses featured in or near high-traffic Instagram photo locations also are impacted by Depalo users, she said, referencing the value of organic and paid social media marketing.
“Restaurants are creating an Insta-worthy atmosphere because they know that’s important in today’s market,” Aneloski said. “We’ve seen a great response from local businesses who have been featured on the app.”
Depalo launched in the Apple Store, with plans to expand availability to Google Play, she said. Other next steps include building content, perfecting the in-app user experience, and expanding featured cities to international locales.
“We’re going global in 2020, starting with cities in Asia and Europe,” said Aneloski.
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