How to download your Instagram data (followers, as JSON)
To analyze your followers safely, you need your data in JSON format. Instagram provides this for free under 'Download your information'. It usually arrives by email within an hour or two. Here's how to request exactly the right file.
Open Download your information
In the Instagram app, go to Settings → Accounts Center → Your information and permissions → Download your information.
Select followers and following
Choose to download specific information and select 'Followers and following'. You don't need photos or messages for follower analysis — a smaller request arrives faster.
Set the format to JSON
Set Format to JSON (not HTML) and Date range to All time. JSON is the machine-readable format that analyzers parse; HTML exports can't be read reliably.
Wait for the email, then upload
Instagram emails you a download link, usually within a couple of hours. Download the ZIP and drop it into Glimpsr — it's parsed in your browser, so nothing is uploaded.
FAQ
- How long does the Instagram data download take?
- Usually under an hour for a followers-and-following request, though Instagram can take a few hours. You'll get an email when it's ready.
- Should I choose JSON or HTML?
- Choose JSON. It's the structured format analyzers can read; HTML exports are formatted for viewing and can't be parsed reliably.
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