Want to keep up with the trends? It is not as difficult as you think!
If you’re part of the one billion Instagram users worldwide, you might have noticed its new feature – Reels.
Instagram Reels is a place for creators to share short videos equipped with a range of popular music, filters and effects – much like popular app, Tik Tok (coincidence? we think not 😉 ).
As similar as Instagram Reels is to Tik Tok, there are slight differences when it comes to the selection of music, the various video editing tools, and the way the algorithm works.
In essence, Instagram Reels offers anyone the chance to become a creator on Instagram and reach new audiences on a global stage.
When done well, Instagram Reels is a powerful tool in expanding reach to audiences who don’t follow you, promoting interaction and generally growing your account.
Ready to start creating? .
Here’s how to create outstanding Reels with just 6 easy steps:.
- Purpose
Before creating your first Reel, start by thinking about the content you’d like to post. What is the purpose of the Reels, who would you like to reach and, if it’s for small businesses, what purpose does it serve?
Then begin to visualize the type of Reels you’d like to create. Is it a How-to Tutorial? Story Telling? Trend-rider?
A big tip is to seek inspiration from other Reels that have similar purposes. For example, if you’d like to make a ‘Clothing Haul’ video, search for clothing haul hashtags, or fashion hashtags… you get the gist. - Music
Next, select the Reels option on your Instagram Camera and select the music icon on the sidebar.
Take some time to explore Instagram’s massive music library, and find a song that best complements your content (hint: upbeat music is often best!).
Ultimately, the aim of the music is to immediately capture the attention of the viewer and encourage them to stick around and watch the content you’re going to create.
Note: You also have an option to use audio that is attributed to you so if your account is public, people can create Reels with your audio. - Start Shooting (Where the Fun Begins!)
Start by making sure your camera isn’t blurry (we’ve all been there 🤦♀️ ). Choose a spot that has the best lighting and get the camera rolling! Feel free to browse all the effects and filters Instagram provides to enhance your video.
If your camera will be stationary, it’s always a good idea to use a tripod (if you have one!) to improve stability and image quality.
Note: Use the timer button to give yourself some preparation time before the camera starts rolling, or use the speed button to adjust the speed of a clip on playback. You have to adjust these settings before you shoot.
Alternatively, you can add clips from your Camera Roll and adjust their length to fit within your Reel. However, the speed and effect functions won’t work if you choose to do this. - Optional
If you have extra time in your hands, alternative phone apps like iMovie, Videoleap or Vixer can take your Reels to the next level by adding in transitions and effects that Instagram doesn’t currently offer. - Texts , GIFS , Stickers
This is the second last step that is going to draw people’s attention to your Reels!
Start by simply choosing any fonts that are going to enhance your Reel, then select when the text is going to transition using the slider tool. - Hit the Push button
It’s time for the moment you’ve been waiting for!
Once you’re happy with how your Reel is looking, Instagram allows you to either share your post to your feed, or keep it nestled in your Reels section on your account.
Choose an eye-catching cover photo for your Reel, enticing and encouraging people to click on it when they notice it on your page.
Note: You can also delete the Reels from your feed after but still keep them in the Reels section
Don’t forget to add your catchy captions with hashtags to boost your post, and share it to your Insta story to let the world enjoy your first Reel!
…and that’s it!
The rest is up to you and your creativity!
Good luck!
