Instagram Reels continue to have success within the platform, mimicking the wildy popular app TikTok. With Instagram’s short-form video format and countless creative possibilities, it’s no wonder that businesses, influencers, and everyday users are using this feature. Here at Target Market, we have put together a DIY guide that walks you through everything you need to know about Instagram Reels.
What Are Instagram Reels?
Instagram Reels are short, engaging video clips, typically lasting from 15 to 60 seconds. They allow you to share a wide range of content, from entertaining videos and educational tutorials to behind-the-scene shots, and much more. Reels are displayed in a separate tab on your Instagram profile, making it easy for your followers to access your video content.
Why Instagram Reels?
Instagram Reels offer several compelling reasons to jump on the bandwagon. These mini-videos can help you reach a wider audience while also boosting your engagement. Reels are prominently featured on the Explore Page, increasing your content’s visibility while also capturing viewers’ attention. Not to mention that in the ever-changing landscape of social media, integrating Reels into your Instagram strategy keeps you competitive.
How To Create Instagram Reels
Creating Instagram Reels is straightforward and can be done using your phone. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
Step 1: Access Reels
Open the Instagram app and tap the camera icon in the top-left corner or swipe right from your feed. You’ll see various options, including Story, Live, and Reels. Tap on “Reels.”
Step 2: Choose Your Settings
Before recording, you can opt to use a template by clicking the “Templates” button. There are a number of options here— recommended for you templates, trending templates, and saved templates. You can also choose the duration (15 or 60 seconds), and select the speed of your video – slow-motion, normal, or fast.
Step 3: Record Your Video
Hold down the white record button to start recording your video. You can record clips by lifting your finger off the record button and pressing it again. This feature allows you to create multiple clips and edit them together. There is also a new feature called “gesture control”. This augmented reality future allows the user to start and stop the video recording with the raise of their hand.
Step 4: Edit Your Reel
After recording your clips, you can enhance your Reel using various creative tools such as layout, audio, effects, text, stickers, and alignment.
Step 5: Share Your Reel
Once you have edited your reel, it is time to share it. Click the arrow icon to proceed. Here, you can add a caption, hashtags, and mention users. You can also choose whether to share your Reel in your feed, on the Explore page, or both.
Content Ideas For Instagram Reels
Now that you know how to create Instagram Reels, it’s time to brainstorm content ideas that will captivate your audience. Here are some popular and effective content concepts to get you started:
- Tutorials
- Behind-the-Scenes
- Viral Challenges
- Product Demonstrations
- Storytelling
- User-Generated Content:
- Mini Vlogs
- Educational Snippets
While these ideas are a great starting point, it is also essential to be authentic, stay consistent, and analyze your audience and results. Once you have your ideas, it’s time to put them into action and upload them to the endless scrollable feed of Instagram Reels.
This DIY guide should help you gain the knowledge and understand the tools needed to master Instagram Reels. Our team at Target Market specializes in full-service social media marketing and management, including social media advertising. Get in touch with us to learn more about how organic social media and digital advertising campaigns can help increase the quality of your content.
