Enjoying the mainstream street cred, Instagram Reels are still a real buzz even in 2022.
The Instagram algorithm seems to love Reels. From Influencers to celebrities, brands, and small businesses, everybody is using this exciting feature to get that extra engagement and reach. Inspired by the meteoric rise of TikTok, Instagram introduced the “Reels” feature in August 2020 as a response.
An Instagram reel is the perfect space to share candid, fun moments, behind-the-scenes glimpses of your brand shoots, on-set rehearsals, viral paparazzi moments, pranks, life hacks, and so much more. Think of anything, and there are literally thousands of Instagram reels in a queue.
The fun part is that they are super addictive, enhance user engagement and help you get notified by people who know nothing about you. Crazy, right? Have you started using these reels? Or are you still new to the term?
Either way, there’s no better time than “Now” to get into this reel game! Today is all about how to make Instagram reels that really pop. Sounds exciting? So, let’s start!
What Exactly Are Instagram Reels?
Instagram reels are short, engaging, and fun videos – no longer than 60 seconds. Like TikTok, these reels follow a vertical format and together make an unending, scrollable feed.
Content creators especially curate Instagram reels for sharing inspirational, educational, and other cool stuff.
You can add filters, trending music, text, or virtually anything to make the aesthetics stand out. And the best part? Instagram actively suggests these reels to users that are not even your followers but share the same interest.
The ‘Reel Feature’ is an innovative way to tap into new audiences who are super excited to view your content. Hence, Instagram Reels are the new definition of storytelling, brand marketing, and content promotion on the platform.
How to make Instagram Reels that really Stand-out
Having more than 1.393 billion active monthly users, Instagram is doing everything in its power to outshine the other social media platforms.
Introducing the reels feature is one such effort. Forget about wasting hours finding the right hashtags for your Instagram Videos when you can get the same results – even better – with a 30-second reel.
Making it to the top of the Explore Page is every creator's dream, and the "Reels" are definitely your best shot.
So, if you are not benefitting from this fantastic feature, you are missing out a lot. Ok, so now you have made up your mind to create your first Instagram reel. Let's help you out:
Step 1: Storyboard the Reel concept
Creating the perfect "Instagram Reels" seems quick and effortless, just pick up a camera, start recording, and that's it.
Pretty simple – right? But in reality, that's not how it works. You'll always need a solid plan to get into the game.
That's exactly where Storyboard helps.
A good storyboard features all the shots the creator needs and the order in which the scenes will appear.
Additionally, it's a blueprint of the visuals and how they best complement the script. It's much better to hash out the little details prior to shooting than to mess up everything on location.
(Or worse, when the video has been shot and you have to redo it again!) Still thinking about how to make Instagram reels 60 seconds (pro-level) videos? Follow the steps below:
- Firstly, before shooting your reel, it's always a great idea to focus on its ultimate goal.
- Secondly, focus on your audience's interest and create a story concept accordingly.
- Finally, make a visual sketch and then copy it on paper if you feel the need.
Now it's the perfect time to figure out if you want flat lays, close-up shots, or landscape shots for your reel.
Additionally, you may also want to consider the elements you'll be using in your reel. The elements can include illustrations, photography, GIFs, filters – or a mix of all. Just focus on the theme and quality of your reel – and we can promise it will bring a lot of traffic and potential followers to your account.
Step 2: Perfect your Reels with FREE Creative Editing Tools – Made Easy!
Now you might be wondering, "How to make Instagram reels viral?". The answer is simple.
A short and sweet video featuring something unique and a clear CTA has the maximum chance of going viral.
For instance, using trending songs, challenges, or other fun elements increases your chances of going viral. Want to perfect your reels to go viral? Here's how to make reels with existing videos and customize them with the FREE creative editing tool. Instagram takes pride in its professional editing tools that no other social media platform offers. These are:
Audio
Ok, so you are curious about how to make Instagram reels with music like your favorite influencer.
That's easy! Go to the Instagram music library and choose your favorite track from thousands of songs there. Additionally, you can always use your original audio in the reels. The best part – your original audio will always be attributed to you.
AR Effects
AR filters/ effects are the best way to add that professional feel to your reels. Go to the Instagram effects gallery and select your favorite effect.
For those thinking about how to make Instagram reels longer than 30 seconds, the AR effect is your go-to option. You can record multiple clips with unique effects and merge them together.
Countdown Timer
Instagram gives you the opportunity to level up your reels game with the timer. Choose your favorite artistic effect, set the timer, and BOOM – your favorite moments are captured for life. The self-timer is one of the most overlooked tools, but if properly used can take your Instagram reels to the next level.Align
Jump on the latest trend by creating seamless transition reels on Instagram. Go to the 'Align' option, line up your favorite objects from the last clip, and record your next scene. Now, you can create stunning outfit change reels or on-point transition videos with your friends using this feature.Speed
Forget TikTok when you can make Slo-Mo and Fast-Mo reels professionally on Instagram. Select any part of the reel and speed up or slow down to stay on the beat. Confused about how to make Instagram reels with multiple photos? You can record your reels in a sequence of clips one by one or all at once. Additionally, you can make your best reel by using multiple photos or small videos from your gallery.Step 3: Sharing your Instagram Reels
Here comes the most important aspect of the Instagram reels app, i.e., “Sharing the Reels.” So, let’s jump right in:
Sharing via a Public Account:
Ok, so you have a public account and want to share your Instagram reel to get maximum exposure.
Let’s show you how. Simply go to the “Explore” section and share the reel.
Sharing in this dedicated space provides you an opportunity to reach and influence a wider Instagram community. Additionally, you can post it on your feed. The good thing is reels that feature specific songs, challenges, effects, or hashtags also appear on the dedicated pages.
For instance, go to the explore option and search #PhotoOfTheDay . You’ll find millions of related posts with the same hashtag on that page.
Sharing via a Private Account:
Don’t worry; Instagram reels won’t bring unnecessary attention if you share them via a private account.
Additionally, followers can’t share your private reels or original audio with non-followers. Furthermore, you can choose a cover image, tag friends, and add a caption and hashtag before finally sharing it.
The good thing is the reel won’t interfere with your main profile grid aesthetics if you don’t share it in your feed. No matter if you have a private or public account, you can share your reels in your story or even send them as direct messages to close friends.
How To Make Instagram Reels with Photos
Making Instagram-worthy videos is not everyone’s cup of tea – and that’s perfectly fine. You can always create Instagram reels using the photos from your phone. Here’s the simple step-by-step process.Step 1
Firstly, open the app and press (+) on your home screen. Now choose the ‘Reels’ option.Step 2
Next, you have to choose the Audio option. You can use the original audio from your video or explore the Instagram library to use trending audio and sons in your reel.Step 3
It’s time to set your video duration. Tap on the ‘Length’ button and choose between 15-, 30-, and 60-seconds video options.Step 4
In addition, you can choose a specific effect and filter from a range of the most stunning options. Click on the “Effects” button or ‘Stars Symbol’ to choose the perfect filter for your video.Step 5
You can add photos to make the reel. Tap on the (+) option and select the picture you want to add to the reel. Moreover, you can add up to 10 pictures to your reel that will appear in the form of a slideshow. Now set the duration for which each photo is visible by dragging the slider to the left or right.
Step 6
Now add text, GIFs, captions, stickers, or other effects that you like. All these features are available on the top panel of the Editor. You can choose from a range of text styles to complement your brand image.Step 7
Once you think you have done a great job, share the reel. Don’t forget to add a caption, cover, and hashtags before finally hitting ‘Share.’ However, if you are looking for advanced editing options like transitions, Vogue layout, 3D picture trends, or some specific layout, you may want to consider an online editor. We highly recommend using the InShot app as it has some really impressive features and helps create professional-grade videos and reels in seconds.Tips For Creating the Best-In-Class Reels That Wow Your Audience!
Creating an Instagram reel is pretty easy but making it stand out on the Explore page is the real task. Here are some pro tips that will help you create the best-in-class reels that will definitely wow your audience:#1 Be Creative
With millions of creators posting reels (daily), you have to be creative to stand out.
Create content that educates, entertains, and, most importantly, engages the viewer. Every reel should follow a brand voice carrying your unique twist. Running short of ideas? No problem! You can take the concept from the viral content out there, add a little spin and make something fresh out of it. It’s that easy! For instance, Have a look at Sara Shakeel’s Instagram .
From featuring Kim Kardashian’s Vogue covers to random Time Square pictures, every image or reel she shares has special bling.
#2 Hook Your Audience
The competition on Instagram is fierce, and you have only 8 seconds to prove that your reel deserves attention.
As crazy as this sounds, you can easily wow your audience using the hook element in your reels. It could be literally anything, from a catchy visual to a fun question or an interesting POV. Your message or theme should be clear immediately. It won’t hurt if you add bold on-screen text or captions etc.
#3 Hop on Trends
Whether you are a brand or an influencer, participating in challenges, trends, viral dance, or audio can bring you more traffic than you can anticipate.
Additionally, when a trend goes viral, people mostly search with specific keywords or hashtags. It means if you simply hop on trends and make quality content without compromising your brand image, you can surely make a hit. And that’s all. Now you might have a better idea of how to make Instagram reels that wow your audience.
No matter if you are a business, brand, influencer, or creator, developing a strong bond with your audience is the key.
So, don’t forget to add ‘Reels’ in your next Instagram marketing strategy. With a touch of creativity, a solid content strategy, and consistency, you can be the next Instagram sensation and trendsetter. Loved reading this post?
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