Blog

Instagram Reels Best Practices

Instagram Reels are the latest and one of the most important features to be added to the platform. Allowing users to upload 15-second video clips set to music, Instagram Reels lets creators reach new audiences via stories, the explore feed, and the reels tab on a user’s profile. As we have seen over the past few months, apps such as Pinterest, Snapchat, and even Youtube are adopting a short-form video blueprint (made successful by the globally known app TikTok). So here is everything you need to know to get started growing your brand via Instagram Reels.

REELS.png

Avoid Recycling Content

As a direct competitor with TikTok, it’s not shocking that Instagram favors original content, created directly on the Instagram app. So if you plan on creating a video on TikTok and then saving it and re-sharing it on Instagram reels, you are going to hurt your reach dramatically. TikTok places a small watermark in the corner of your video when you download it, so to avoid this either create your original video on Instagram and then share to TikTok or make original content tailored to each platform individually.

Always Use Vertical Video

The best ratio to use for Instagram Reels is 9:16, or for our video editors out there, 1080 pixels by 1920 pixels. This ratio ensures that the video will be viewed vertically, full-screen, and on mobile. It is also important to keep in mind that the bottom fifth of a Reel is where the video caption is displayed, so avoid putting important visual elements in that area if possible.

CAPTIONS.png

Aim for High-Quality Video Content

If we have learned anything over the course of the last few years, it’s that Instagram loves high-quality content. So if your Reels are blurry or low-resolution, there is a very good chance that your video will not perform well. Your followers may still view your video, but it will not be pushed to new audiences via the explore page or Reels tab.

Use Instagram Reels Creative Tools

In order to reach more people with your videos, Instagram suggests creating Reels that are entertaining, fun, or inspiring. Some ways to implement these are by utilizing the creative tools Instagram has to offer such as text, filters, and camera effects. As of right now, TikTok offers a far vaster catalog of creative tools, but Instagram still encourages users to use the few tools they offer. Taking the time with these tools can increase your Reel views and keep users coming back to the app.


Instagram Reels should be viewed as a vital asset to your company’s marketing strategy. To get started you should focus on these main takeaways:


  • Avoid recycling content
  • Always use vertical video
  • Aim for high-quality video content
  • Use Instagram Reels Creative Tools


For more customized help with your social media marketing, schedule a free consultation with us.

Post author
Kimberly Portuondo
March 16, 2021
min read
Category:
Explore

Related Posts

Work Smarter With Social Media Automation

Work Smarter With Social Media Automation

Social media automation can help save valuable time and energy. Discover the benefits of automating social media posts for chiropractic marketing.

Kyle Johnson
|
November 5, 2024
READ MORE
How to Increase Social Media Engagement

How to Increase Social Media Engagement

Looking to engage with your audience more? Here are some of our tips on how to increase social media engagement by using social media metrics.

Carley Ray
|
April 16, 2024
READ MORE
Last Minute 4th of July Social Media Posts

Last Minute 4th of July Social Media Posts

With the 4th of July just around the corner, now is the perfect time to consider your social media campaign. Have you curated your 4th of July social media posts? If not, try weaving these engaging post ideas into your content calendar.

Carley Ray
|
June 20, 2023
READ MORE