Instagram Reels are here. Reels is a new Instagram feature that has a playoff TikTok. This is a brand-new way to create fun and engaging video content from Instagram Stories. Users can record and edit up to a 15-second multi-clip video, with audio, using effects and creative edits to make content, then share them with their followers.

How to use Instagram Reels

To create a reel, open the Instagram camera just like you would use Stories and select Reels on the bottom scroll bar.

  • From this screen, you can select your audio, search for a song from the Instagram music library. You can also use your own original audio by simply recording a reel with it. When you share a reel with original audio, your audio will be attributed to you, and if you have a public account, people can create reels with your audio by selecting “Use Audio” from your reel.
  • AR Effects, you can select one of the many effects in our effect gallery, created both by Instagram and creators all over the world, to record multiple clips with different effects.
  • Timer and Countdown can be a really good tool for you to record any of your clips hands-free. Once you press record, you’ll see a 3-2-1 countdown, before recording begins for the amount of time you selected.
  • Align tool means you can line up objects from your previous clip before recording your next to help create seamless and professional transitions for moments like outfit changes or adding new friends into your reel.
  • Speed: Choose to speed up or slow down part of the video or audio you selected. This can help you stay on a beat or make slow-motion videos.

Reels can be recorded in a series of clips, all at once, or using video uploads from your gallery record the first clip by pressing and holding the capture button. You will see a progress indicator at the top of the screen as you record. Stop recording to end each clip.

Sharing Reels

Tap the arrow at the bottom when you are ready to publish. From there, you’ll have the option to write a caption, choose a cover image, add hashtags and share your video to Reels (If your account is public) Reels will appear on explore and be stored on a tab on your profile page, similar to IGTV.

Reuse TikTok videos

If you have published content in TikTok, think about reusing them for Reels. By reusing TikTok videos, you can either bring your followers – who have not used TikTok – a new type of content or help expose your content to new audiences.

How to use Instagram Reels for your brand

Now that you know what Instagram Reels is, you may be wondering how to use this feature for your brand or business.

Instagram Reels is a new way to build your community and grow your reach on Instagram. It is a fun and engaging way to share viral (and creative!) snippets with your audience. If you already have an Instagram business profile and are already using IGTV or Stories, try Reels to build your engagement.

Create content that is relevant to your target market

Reels, by design, is a fast and full-featured tool, full of special effects to enhance your content. Create authentic and captivating Reels relevant to your audience, and you’ll find this a fantastic way to strengthen your brand community

Share Educational content associated with your brand

Establishing your brand’s positioning within its industry is key, and educational content regarding the business and sector is a great way to achieve this. This content is popular with users, especially when giving tips or step by step tutorials.

Show your product range

Instagram reels can be a great lead generator for brands and businesses who utilise the tool to expose their products and services in a creative way. To ensure you make the most of the international marketplace accessible by the Explore page, be sure to use hashtags and captions to target prospective customers.

Whatever your brand or business, there is a creative opportunity waiting for you.

Let’s Socialise 

Whether you are looking to drive awareness, get your business seen or generate leads and conversions, FireTap has the necessary expertise to deliver a tailored social media strategy to reach your business goals.  We tailor our social media services to your business needs. Whether it’s full social media management or a one-off campaign, we do it all! Want to enquire about our services?

Find out more about our Social Media Marketing Services