Instagram Trick by Joshua Jay

Effect

The Instagram Trick creates a baffling moment where a spectator's chosen card appears to have been predicted on the magician's Instagram feed before the trick even began. The magician fails to find the selected card in the deck, then reveals a pre-dated Instagram post showing the exact card, along with a personalized message mentioning the spectator's name and outfit. To top it off, the wrong card initially shown transforms into the correct one, completing the illusion.

Full Details

This trick combines social media with traditional card magic, making it highly relevant for modern audiences. The magician has a spectator freely select a card, which is lost in the deck. After pretending to fail, they direct the spectator to their Instagram profile, where a pinned post from the previous week displays the chosen card and a message tailored to the spectator. The post appears impossible to fake due to its date. The trick concludes with a visual transformation, reinforcing the impossibility of the prediction.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for magicians who perform at social events, weddings, or casual settings where spectators are active on social media. It works well for those who want to blend digital and physical magic, creating a memorable moment that encourages engagement (such as follows on Instagram). Performers who enjoy interactive, personalized magic will find this particularly effective.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The Instagram Trick requires basic card handling skills but does not rely on advanced sleight of hand. The main challenge is setting up the social media post in advance and ensuring the presentation feels organic. The transformation at the end can be done with a simple method, making it accessible to intermediate magicians.

What Magicians Say

Rob Sweet (Sweet Deception Magic) praises the trick for its strong impact and marketing potential:
"The post is also dated the week before, so there is no way they could perceive I've changed it in any way. Finally, the wrong card I took out magically turns into the Jack, bringing the trick full circle. It also gets me another follow, which is also a bonus."

The host of Stranded with a Stranger also highlights the clever use of social media integration, comparing it to Patrick Kun’s Instagrab as an example of modern magic that enhances audience interaction.

This trick stands out for its combination of digital and physical magic, making it a strong choice for performers looking to engage tech-savvy audiences.