Short-form video content is taking the world by storm, and Instagram didn’t want to miss out on the fun. They have finally rolled out their response to their tremendously popular competitor, TikTok, with Instagram Reels.
What are Instagram Reels?
Instagram Reels are 15-second multi-clip videos where the user can easily add in audio, effects, and other creative tools. Reels are shared in the user’s regular Feed as well as on a dedicated Reels Feed located on the Explore page. Reels can be easily identified by a clapboard icon in the bottom-left corner.
How do I use Reels?
The Reels video format can be accessed inside of the Instagram camera, found by swiping left on the user’s home page. The tab for Reels can be found at the bottom of the page, alongside the familiar Live videos and Story options.
Then, the fun begins. If you’re familiar with TikTok, you’ll feel very comfortable with Instagram’s Reels experience. There are plenty of options for visual effects, music, or fun filters to liven up your short videos, as well as an option to use preexisting content from your camera roll. From beauty filters to googly eye effects, there really is something for everyone.
How do I use Reels for Business?
Instagram Reels provide a fantastic opportunity for brands to share their personality in a more casual way than the traditional picture-perfect method found on their feed. The feel of Reels is much more laidback and helps you to create genuine relationships with your Instagram followers by showing them your fun side.
Another great use for Reels is showcasing your products or space, like demonstrating how to make the perfect cappuccino or showing off your beautiful interior in a new way. This can inspire your followers to come to your business and check it out for themselves!
The best part about Reels? You get to reach an entirely new audience. The dedicated Reels feed appears on every user’s explore page and your content will be shared to completely new users. After watching your Reel, they can easily click through to your page and tap the follow button.
Why should I use Reels?
It is truly impossible to deny the massive popularity that Instagram has generated and continues to build across the US and the rest of the world. In just a few years, it has established itself as a quintessential part of social culture and interaction for Gen Z. If you want to reach this audience in a new and engaging way using your existing Instagram page, give Reels a try.
The addicting nature of these viral snippets ensures that your viewers will watch the Reels over and over again. They’re fast, fun, and meant to make creating captivating content easier than ever before.
While the feature is extremely new and its general approval from users is unclear, the universal trendiness of TikTok bodes well for Reels. Get creative - there are countless ways for you to build your community and expand your reach in a new way using Reels!