You already know that video content rules the internet — and that includes Instagram. Back in June 2021, Adam Mosseri (CEO of Instagram) said that the app is no longer just a photo-sharing app. There was a lot of panic as people adjusted their content plans and overall approach to Instagram, but now that the dust has settled, it’s pretty clear:
Video is here to stay.
Whether it’s a simple story post or a full-fledged Instagram Reels content plan, videos are essential for growing your audience and expanding your reach on Instagram. One could also argue that it’s important for other platforms, as well.
But there are only so many hours in the day and let’s face it — video content isn’t always the easiest thing to cross off of your to-do list. From coming up with unique ideas to getting camera-ready and dealing with editing, strategic captions, hashtags, etc… it can easily become the most time-consuming task in your business.
If you’re wondering how you’re supposed to create a knock-out Instagram feed with limited time on your hands, we have two words for you: Stock videos.
Stock videos work just like stock photos. They’re created by a professional photographer but instead of static images, they create short, bite-sized clips that last anywhere from 10-15 seconds. Stock videos (at least the ones we create!) can uplevel your Instagram feed by diversifying the backgrounds, people, and activities included in your brand visuals.
Stock videos are a lifesaver when it comes to creating Instagram content (and other content). No matter what type of content you’ve got on the agenda this month, we know stock videos can be a great asset to your biz. Just to help you get started, though, we’re sharing a few ways you can use stock video on Instagram.
Instagram posts
Promoting your latest offer? Want to highlight your services or a day in the life? Just popping in to say hi? If you have something to say, say it with video.
And if you think Instagram video content is just for Reels…think again! You don’t have to devote all your time and attention to Reels — using stock videos to create aesthetically pleasing static Instagram posts ensures you get the benefit of video content and all the eye-catching attention of feed-style posts.
Simply upload your stock video as a post and adjust the placement until you find the square view of the video you love. Here’s an example from our stock video collection:
Instagram Stories
Instagram Stories are great for engaging and connecting with your audience. Not everyone scrolls for hours on their feed. Some people are just active on Stories. If you aren’t utilizing them, you’re missing out on a huge subset of your audience.
Sometimes you don’t want to get in front of the camera and talk. Still images or post reshares can get a little redundant.
That’s where stock videography comes in. You have an easy way to spice things up without having to actually show up or put on real pants (no thanks).
Stock videos are a great asset for your Story strategy if you’re low on time, too. You won’t have to spend hours recording the perfect shot because everything is ready to go for you. Add text, polls, stickers, and more to get the most out of your video Stories, without needing to actual record the video!
Instagram Reels
Does the thought of lip-syncing along to the latest trending audio freak you out? Us too — that’s why we L-O-V-E stock videos for creating Reels.
Even though we’ve seen how important video content on social media has become over the last two years, many business owners are still hesitant to hit that record button. Sometimes it’s because you’re worried about looking silly; other times, it’s because you don’t have time (or both).
Strategizing Instagram Reels is a time-sucking task and, when you have a million other things to take care of, it’s easy to push them to the side and totally forget about them. Then, there’s the pointing and dancing thing, too.
If you're short on time or hate jumping on camera, stock videos offer you a way to share your products, services, and juicy info like the latest tips and tricks without ever having to put any makeup on or mentally prepare yourself to be recorded.
Want to see it in action? Check out one of our favorite Reels here!
Instagram ads
You can also use stock video for Instagram ads. Movement is one of the best ways to draw attention to your ad and differentiate your brand from the millions of others. No audio means no flagged words or phrases, but you still get dynamic motion that attracts the eye!
Just choose the stock video that matches your brand’s vibe, complete with the right tones, colors, and scenes. Be sure to choose one that has enough activity, too! Slow-mo videos might not be as effective for standing out in a busy feed, so keep from blending in with stock videos that are fast-paced enough to stop the scroll.
Extra tips for creating ah-mazing video content
Between creating posts, making Stories, going live, and curating the perfect Reel, there are tons of ways to drive engagement and grow your following. But the competition for attention is fierce.
Our attention spans are shorter than ever, so getting someone to stop what they’re doing and focus on your content can be a challenge. But by creating quality content, you can make it much easier to attract your ideal audience. Here are a few ways to create video content without stock videos (or being super eager to record yourself).
Repurpose images with videos to boost engagement and reach
There’s no shame in repurposing your content. Less than 1% of your audience engages with your posts, so it’s likely that because of the algorithm, not everyone is seeing all of your posts.
Plus, creating new ideas every week is exhausting. If you have great content, show it off, even if you’ve used it before. If your old photos are still relevant to your brand, compile them into a Reel and add some trending audio to seal the deal.
Mix in photos with your own video content
Pairing still images with stock videos makes for one dynamic post. It gives your audience an opportunity to pause, even if for only a millisecond, and become more engaged with your content. It’s also a quick and easy way to change things up!
Use stock videos for backgrounds
Using stock videos for the backgrounds of your posts adds depth and additional interest. It makes your posts visually appealing enough to catch your audience’s attention, but not so chaotic that they can’t make out what the post is trying to convey.
Want to get your hands on a growing stock video collection?
Video content can be daunting. As a biz owner, you’ve got limited time and you have to be resourceful so your content is putting in the work for you.
Not only does a Styled Stock Society membership offer you thousands of beautiful stock photos to repurpose into video, but you can get access to our growing library of stock videos, too! Don’t waste another second trying to convince yourself to hit record. Get the videos you need to show up with less stress!
As a Styled Stock Society Member, you’ll get:
- 6,000+ stock photos and videos shot by professional photographers
- 1,500+ customizable graphic templates just for Styled Stock Society members
- Monthly caption guides with prompts, templates, and sample captions
- Marketing tools and resources added throughout the year to help you advertise your latest offer
- Unlimited downloads and lifetime access to assets you’ve downloaded
If you’re ready to transform your Instagram feed, Reels, and videos with stunning visuals, join Styled Stock Society now!
