How to Start Creating Reels

You probably know that short-form video content has taken social media by storm. But don’t fall into the trap of thinking that you have to post video content just for the sake of it (i.e., to get seen by the algorithm); short-form videos, like Reels, can offer some great benefits.

For one, this type of video content is a way for you to engage with your audience beyond the comments section. Because these videos allow for longer explanations than you can write in a post caption, you can create an Instagram Reel to go in-depth with certain topics and provide further value with your content. 

They’re also a new and highly visual way to present information. You know we love graphics, and copy is important, of course, but adding video to your content plan gives your audience a new way to digest the information you provide them. 

If you’ve been thinking about adding Reels to your content marketing plan, here are four easy steps to help you get started.

How to create an Instagram Reel

Creating a Reel is a relatively straightforward process: upload a video, edit it, and post it! But we’re going to make it a little bit easier for you by giving you a step-by-step rundown so you can get started ASAP. 

Step 1: Tap the plus icon and select Reel

Use the same button you would normally use to create a post, and tap “Reel.”

Step 2: Upload your video or hit record

You can upload video content you have already created or record directly on Instagram. Just press and hold the record button. But be mindful of time limits — you have 90 seconds max! 

Want to create a single video from multiple clips? It’s easy, and you don’t have to use a third-party app or service to splice your videos. You can upload clips in multiple increments, or record, then tap pause, and then press record again whenever you’re ready. 

Here are a few additional tips to make the most of all the recording features:

1. Audio: Upload music or audio from the Instagram library or from your phone (audio that comes with the uploaded video only). You can add this later in the editing process too.
2. Length: Change the timing of your video in increments of 15, 30, 60, or 90 seconds. You don’t have to use that entire time, but it sets the limit for when the video will end. 
3. Speed: Make your videos faster or slower depending on your preference.
4. Layout: Add more than one recording to the frame.
5. Timer: Set a countdown timer that will go off before you start recording.
6. Dual: Record videos with your front and rear camera simultaneously.

H3: Step 3: Make edits where needed

When you’re done with the video portion of your Reel, you can add different design elements right there in the app. Add stickers, doodles, or text by clicking the same icon button you would in Stories. 

During the editing process, you can also add audio by selecting the music note at the top of the screen. 

H3: Step 4: Adjust the settings and hit “post”

Now it’s time to put the finishing touches on your Reel. Add your caption, tag people as needed, identify your location if you want to, and add your Reel cover. Then, hit publish!

Best practices for creating Reels

Want to make the most of your Reels? Here are a few best practices to keep in mind: 

• Visual limits: Be mindful of portions of the Reel that may get cut off when adding text or icons. Make space for the caption at the bottom, and leave room at the top and on the sides. When moving elements around on the screen, yellow guidelines will pop up so you know where to go.
• Closed captions: If you’re talking in your Reel, be sure to use this feature to keep things accessible. You can add auto-generated captions in the same place you access stickers when editing.
• Reels Covers: You want to keep everything on brand, right? Reels covers are a great way to do that! You can easily keep your feed professional and polished — and adding them to your Reel is easy. Just tap “Add Reel cover” before publishing. You can even go back in and add them later if you need to.