In August 2020, Instagram announced the addition of a new feature: Instagram Reels. Reels were created to offer a similar format to TikTok and allow users to create 15-second videos. Short-format videos are hugely popular among Generation Z and Millennials, so if your brand caters to the younger crowd, Instagram Reels may become a vital part of your social media marketing strategy. Interested in learning more about Reels and why you should consider creating short-format videos? Here, we share the details on this new feature of Instagram:
The Basics on Instagram Reels
Like Instagram Stories, Reels is built into the site’s interface. To create a Reel, you’ll access the Reels camera from the Stories camera. Reels can be 3-15 seconds in length and appear in full 9:16 portrait mode. Users may film Reels directly from the Reels camera or upload content from the camera roll, and may be filmed in one take or as a series (once again, similar to Stories). If you plan to start creating Reels, keep in mind that they can only be created via a mobile device.
Tips For Creating Effective Reels
If you’d like to try your hand at creating Instagram Reels, this is a great platform for getting creative and having some fun. While many short-format videos feature music and dancing, business accounts are unable to add music to their videos. However, there’s a multitude of ways to make your Reels stand out among the Reels feed and Explore page. Start by considering your brand’s values and the type of content you’d like to put out there. For businesses, Instagram Reels may be excellent for creating a personal feel. For example, you could offer a quick behind-the-scenes glimpse to viewers, introduce staff members, or tease new products. To make your Reels more interesting and accessible, experiment with hashtags and effects.
For marketers looking to capture the attention of Instagram users, creating short-format videos on Reels could be a savvy move. If you’d like to take the guesswork out of navigating this new feature, our team is here to help. Whether you’re just looking for assistance with content creation on Instagram or you’d like a comprehensive social media marketing strategy, our experienced team has the expertise to provide results. When you’re ready to learn more about our services, please reach out to us to schedule a consultation. We’ll work with you to create a customized plan that’s perfect for your brand’s unique needs.