If you’re looking to dive into the world of Instagram data analytics, one fantastic way is through scraping comments from posts. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to set up the Instagram Comments Scraper by Agi Maulana, so you can start gathering valuable insights from your favorite posts.

Installation Steps

Follow these easy steps to get the scraper up and running:

1. Clone the Repository: Choose one of the following commands to clone the repository to your local machine:
• git clone git@github.com:AgiMaulanaInstagram-Comments-Scraper.git
• git clone https://github.com/AgiMaulanaInstagram-Comments-Scraper.git
• Alternatively, you can download the zip file.
2. Create a Virtual Environment: This step is recommended to manage your dependencies cleanly.
• pip install virtualenv
• virtualenv .venv
3. Activate the Virtual Environment:
• source .venv/bin/activate
4. Install Dependencies: Ensure you have all necessary packages by running:
• pip install -r requirements.txt
5. Login: Enter your Instagram credentials in the following lines:
• username.send_keys (USER-NAME) – replace USER-NAME with your actual username
• password.send_keys(PASSWORD) – replace PASSWORD with your actual password. Rest assured, we do not store your password.
6. Run the Scraper: Execute the following command to start scraping:
• python scraper.py post-url total-load-more-click
• Change the post-url with your target post. For example: python scraper.py https://www.instagram.com/p/CBHH2KjI6BW 5
7. Deactivate the Virtual Environment: After usage, run:
• deactivate

Understanding the Code Through an Analogy

Imagine you’re a detective on a mission to gather clues from different houses (Instagram posts). Each house is unique and you need a special set of tools to get your job done without damaging anything (scraping without getting your account banned).

• When you clone the repository, it’s like acquiring access to the detective’s manual that tells you how to approach each house.
• The virtual environment serves as your protective gear, ensuring that you interact with the houses (libraries) in a controlled manner, facilitating safe and effective operations.
• The login process is like introducing yourself as a friendly neighborhood detective; you’re given permission to explore the premises.
• Finally, running the scraper is akin to gathering evidence (comments) from the houses before you head back to your command center—a.k.a your computer.

Troubleshooting Tips

Although the process is straightforward, you may encounter some hiccups along the way. Here are some solutions:

• Login Issues: Double-check your username and password. Remember, if Instagram blocks your login, it may be due to suspicious activity.
• Missing Packages: If you receive errors about missing modules, recheck the installation of your dependencies. Running pip install -r requirements.txt again should solve it.
• Scraping Fails: Ensure the post URL is correct and that you’ve set the right parameters for loading comments.
• Environment Activation: If the virtual environment isn’t activated, make sure you are in the right folder and that you use the correct activation command.

For more insights, updates, or to collaborate on AI development projects, stay connected with fxis.ai.

License

This project is under the MIT License.

At fxis.ai, we believe that such advancements are crucial for the future of AI, as they enable more comprehensive and effective solutions. Our team is continually exploring new methodologies to push the envelope in artificial intelligence, ensuring that our clients benefit from the latest technological innovations.

Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge to scrape Instagram comments, go ahead, gather some insights, and happy scraping!