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How To Follow Someone on Snapchat: A Complete Guide from a Snapchat Veteran

So, you want to expand your Snapchat circle and soak in the fleeting, filter-laden brilliance of someone’s daily life? Good choice! Snapchat, despite the rise of newer platforms, remains a powerhouse for visual communication and genuine connection. The app thrives on immediacy and exclusivity. Let’s dive into how you can seamlessly connect with individuals on this vibrant platform.

The core answer? There are several avenues to follow someone on Snapchat. The most common and straightforward methods include:

Searching by Username: This is the most direct approach. If you know their exact username, you can simply type it into the search bar within the Snapchat app.
Scanning a Snapcode: A Snapcode is that unique, recognizable square with the Snapchat ghost in the middle. Scanning it instantly adds the user.
Adding from Your Contacts: Snapchat can access your phone’s contact list and suggest users who have linked their phone number to their Snapchat account.
Adding Through Mutual Friends: If you share friends on Snapchat with the person you want to follow, you can add them through the “Quick Add” feature.
Using a Sharable Link: Some users might share a direct link to their Snapchat profile on other social media platforms or websites.

Each method has its advantages, and the best one depends on the information you have available. I’ll walk you through each in more detail so you’ll be following like a pro in no time.

Diving Deeper into Snapchat Following Methods

The Username Search: Precision is Key

The username search is arguably the most reliable way to add someone, provided you have the correct information. Here’s the breakdown:

Open the Snapchat app.
Tap the magnifying glass icon in the top left corner.
In the search bar, carefully type the user’s exact Snapchat username. Remember, usernames are case-sensitive and should be entered precisely.
If the username is valid, their profile will appear. Tap the “Add” button next to their name.
You are now following them! (Unless their profile is private, in which case they’ll need to accept your request.)

Pro Tip: Double-check the username before hitting “Add”. A single typo can lead you to a completely different user, and nobody wants that awkward accidental add!

The Power of the Snapcode: Instant Connection

Snapcodes are brilliant little shortcuts that simplify the adding process. Here’s how to use them:

Ask the user for their Snapcode. They can easily share it with you.
Open the Snapchat app.
There are two ways to scan a Snapcode:
- Scan from Camera View: Point your Snapchat camera at the Snapcode. Press and hold on the Snapcode image on your screen until Snapchat recognizes it.
- Scan from Camera Roll: If you have a screenshot of the Snapcode, tap your profile icon, then the settings cog icon in the upper right corner. Scroll down to “Snapcodes” and then “Scan from Camera Roll”. Select the screenshot.
Snapchat will automatically identify the user associated with the Snapcode and prompt you to “Add Friend”.
Tap the button to add them.

Pro Tip: Snapcodes are commonly found on business cards, websites, and other social media profiles. Keep an eye out!

Tapping Your Contacts: Leveraging Existing Connections

Snapchat can access your phone’s contact list to suggest potential friends. This is a great way to discover people you already know are on Snapchat.

Open the Snapchat app.
Tap your profile icon in the top left corner.
Tap “Add Friends”.
Select “Contacts”. Snapchat will ask for permission to access your contacts if you haven’t granted it already.
Snapchat will display a list of your contacts who have linked their phone number to their Snapchat account.
Tap the “Add” button next to the names of people you want to follow.

Pro Tip: This method is most effective if your contacts have accurately associated their phone numbers with their Snapchat accounts.

The “Quick Add” Feature: Discovering New People

The “Quick Add” feature suggests users you might know, often based on mutual friends and shared connections.

Open the Snapchat app.
Tap your profile icon in the top left corner.
Tap “Add Friends”.
The “Quick Add” section will display suggested users.
Tap the “Add” button next to the profiles you’re interested in following.

Pro Tip: Be mindful of who you add through “Quick Add”. Consider whether you actually know the person before sending a friend request.

The Sharable Link: External Connections

Some users share their Snapchat profile via a sharable link. This link directs you straight to their profile in the app.

Click on the sharable link. This could be shared on another social media platform or a website.
The link will typically open directly in the Snapchat app and take you to the user’s profile.
Tap the “Add Friend” button.

Pro Tip: Be cautious when clicking on Snapchat links from unknown sources. Always verify the link’s legitimacy before adding someone.

Snapchat Following: FAQs Answered

Now, let’s address some common questions about following people on Snapchat. As a seasoned Snapchat user, I’ve encountered all these scenarios myself!

FAQ 1: Why Can’t I Find Someone When I Search Their Username?

Several reasons could be at play:

Typo: Double, triple-check the username for accuracy. Even a single misplaced character can throw off the search.
Username Change: The user might have changed their username recently.
Account Deactivated or Deleted: The account might no longer exist.
You Are Blocked: They might have blocked you. You won’t be able to find them in the search if that is the case.

FAQ 2: How Do I Know if Someone Added Me Back on Snapchat?

When someone adds you back, you’ll typically receive a notification. You’ll also see their name appear in your “Friends” list. If you sent them a Snap and see a solid blue arrow beside it, that means that they are your friend on Snapchat. A hollow blue arrow means that you have sent them a Snap, but they haven’t added you as a friend yet.

FAQ 3: Can Someone See if I Looked at Their Profile Without Adding Them?

No, Snapchat doesn’t notify users when someone views their profile without adding them. You can browse profiles discreetly without leaving a trace (unless you interact with their content, of course).

FAQ 4: What Does “Pending” Mean When I Try to Add Someone?

“Pending” means that you’ve sent a friend request, but the recipient hasn’t accepted it yet. Their profile is likely set to private, requiring them to approve friend requests.

FAQ 5: Is There a Limit to How Many People I Can Follow on Snapchat?

While Snapchat doesn’t explicitly state a hard limit on the number of people you can follow, it’s generally understood that there’s a practical limit. Adding thousands upon thousands of users can impact the app’s performance. Focus on building genuine connections.

FAQ 6: Can I Follow Celebrities or Public Figures on Snapchat?

Yes, many celebrities and public figures have Snapchat accounts. You can find their usernames through their official social media channels or websites. Keep in mind that some might have verified accounts with a star next to their name, confirming their authenticity.

FAQ 7: How Do I Create a Snapcode for My Own Snapchat Account?

Creating a Snapcode is simple:

Open the Snapchat app.
Tap your profile icon in the top left corner.
Your Snapcode will be displayed.
Tap the Snapcode to customize it with a selfie.

FAQ 8: Why Can’t I Scan a Snapcode?

Several factors can prevent you from scanning a Snapcode:

Poor Lighting: Ensure adequate lighting for the camera to recognize the Snapcode.
Blurry Image: The Snapcode image must be clear and focused.
Snapchat Version: Make sure you have the latest version of Snapchat.
Camera Issues: Verify your camera is working properly.

FAQ 9: Can I Unfollow Someone on Snapchat Without Them Knowing?

Yes, you can remove someone from your friends list without them receiving a notification. However, they might notice if you no longer view their stories or interact with their snaps.

FAQ 10: What’s the Difference Between “Adding” and “Subscribing” on Snapchat?

Snapchat doesn’t have a “subscribe” feature like other social media platforms. You simply add someone as a friend. If their profile is public, you’ll automatically see their public content.

FAQ 11: Can I Mass Add Friends on Snapchat?

While third-party apps claim to offer mass adding capabilities, they are generally not recommended. These apps often violate Snapchat’s terms of service and can lead to account suspension or permanent bans.

FAQ 12: How Can I Protect My Privacy on Snapchat?

Protecting your privacy is crucial:

Set your profile to private: This requires users to send you a friend request before they can see your content.
Adjust your “Who Can…” settings: Control who can send you snaps, view your stories, and see your location.
Be mindful of what you share: Once a snap is sent, it’s difficult to retract.
Regularly review your friends list: Remove anyone you no longer want to be connected with.

That’s it! You’re now equipped with the knowledge to navigate the sometimes-tricky world of Snapchat connections. Happy snapping!