How to Create an Instagram Reel

If you’re interested in learning more about how to create an Instagram Reel, you’re going to want to keep reading. Below, we offer the best tips and tricks to create successful Instagram Reels as well as the statistics behind why your business should start incorporating them into your social media marketing strategy.

What is an Instagram Reel?

A Reel is a specific video format on Instagram that consists of a 15-30 second clip. But Reels aren’t limited to just the footage that you shoot yourself; you can customize your Reels by adding a number of special effects and music.

On your account, Reels are separated into their own screen so that your followers can easily find them and interact with them compared to your other content. Similarly, Instagram segments Reels out from its regular posts into their own channel within the app, which makes it easier for the content to be discovered by a new audience.

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Why are Instagram Reels Important for Your Business?

Since the launch of Instagram Reels, marketers have seen skyrocketing statistics with engagements.

Studies have shown that the average time spent on Instagram in India increased by 3.5% since the launch of Instagram Reels. Marketers have studied how Instagram Reels have helped brands like known basketball teams and fashion lines. For example, NBA franchises noticed a 22% higher engagement rate by using Instagram Reels…

and Sephora France gets more than 435,000 views per Reel, often even approaching or surpassing 1 million views as older Reels age.

It’s clear to see that Reels can be a compelling way of growing and communicating with your audience on Instagram. Of course this will depend on who your audience is and whether or not they use Instagram and Reels, but if you find Instagram to be a significant social channel for your business, incorporating Reels to your social media strategy could pay significant dividends.

How to Create an Instagram Reel

Now that we see the numbers on how Reels can help diversify your social media content, let’s get into how to create a successful Instagram Reel. With a little bit of time and patience, anyone can create a unique Reel to help promote their business or content.

Some things to consider when creating a Reel:

Speed: On Instagram Reels there are six speeds you can set your videos to: .3x (the slowest speed), .5x, 1x, 2x, 3x, and 4x (the fastest speed). Choose a speed that allows the viewer to follow the action, while being fast enough to not drag.

Timer: Instagram Reels offers a countdown timer to help prepare you for filming. You can choose a countdown timer set at 3 seconds or 10 seconds.

Step 1

Once you’ve logged into your Instagram account, go to the home page. Swipe your screen to the left. You’ll see four options listed at the bottom of the screen saying “Post”, “Story”, “Reel” and “Live.” Scroll to the right twice until your screen is set to “Reel.”

Step 2

Choose the music you would like added to your Reel. Hold down the circle button in the center and start filming your content. At the top of the screen, you will see a thin, pink bar showing how much time is left with your video. Once you’ve reached the maximum length, click the white arrow on the bottom right hand side of the screen.

Step 3

The next screen allows you to add GIFS, stickers, text and voiceovers to your Instagram Reel. Once you’ve added your desired graphics and text, tap the “Share To” button at the bottom right hand side of the screen.

Step 4

You’re almost done creating your first Reel! Next add your caption and choose a Cover photo for your Reel. (For the best time to post your Instagram Reel and hashtags to use in your caption, read more at our blog.)

Step 5

Voila! Share your Reel on your feed and watch those likes and views soar!

“Reeling” It In

Creating an Instagram Reel is a fun way to get creative with your content. Using trending hashtags and audio can further increase your engagement. In a world moving towards a digital and social age, it’s important to diversify your products with new videos.

Does your social strategy need a boost? Partnering with marketing specialists can help! At Pepperland, we specialize in inbound and content marketing and can help your business grow exponentially through our expertise and resources. Contact us today to find out how we can help achieve your goals.

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