Try these tools: https://steemit.com/steemit/@baodog/3-best-steemit-tools-for-beginners-earn-steem-gain-followers-and-track-progress
I was pretty frustrated when I first started out. I was posting great photos, writing good content, and following all the guides I had read and I would get maybe 3 upvotes per post. Those tools I mentioned really helped me and allowed me to earn my first $20 on here. Hope this helps any frustrated Steemians out there!