The Ultimate Guide to Instagram Reels
Instagram Reels is the new video content making feature launched by Facebook-owned Instagram. It was launched as a reaction to the global popularity of Chinese Tik Tok. Reels was launched in more than 50 countries this August. Reels will offer a new platform to create short video content who are looking for an alternative to Tik Tok.
Instagram Reels is almost similar to its Chinese counterpart Tik Tok but with some different features. Reels allows users to only record and edit 15-second clips that are set to music. Users can then share them in their Stories and Explore Feed.
You can also view Reels from other popular and trending Instagram accounts. You may even see “Featured” mentioned on some Reels indicating that these Reels are made by the public. These Reels are chosen by Instagram to help you discover original content.
How do Reels work?
Reels, just like Tik Tok has a variety of creative editing tools on the left of the screen, namely,
- Audio: This is Instagram’s music library from where users choose songs or the can also choose their own original audio file to record their video.
- AR Effects: That allows users to select effects from the gallery.
- Timer and Countdown: Users can set a timer for recording their clips in handsfree mode. A 3 seconds countdown will show once they press “Record” and begin recording.
- Align: Lets users to align props from the previous clip before recording for the next. To create smooth and seamless transitions, users can use the align feature.
- Speed: Allows users to speed up or slow down selected part(s) of video and audio. This is also used for making slow-motion videos.
Similar to Tik Tok, you can start and pause your recording in the 15 seconds duration multiple times by holding the record button. Once done recording, you can edit the videos and use tools for text and drawing, use Instagram stickers to add to your clips. Edit cover photo with a video thumbnail or add from your camera roll.
How to share your videos?
Once finished with your editing, move to the Share screen. You can share your video content with your followers in your Stories, on Reels tab on your profile and it can be discovered on “Explore”. On the Reels tab on your profile, you can see your videos and where your followers can check your recently published Reels.
You will be able to share your Reels through your Stories, to your close friends or indirect message regardless of you have a private account or a public. After you share your reel, it will be there separate Reels tab on your profile, where people can find your shared Reels. Your Reels will be visible on your main profile when you share it on your Feed.
Watching Reels
You can watch and discover trending Reels in the Explore tab. You will receive a notification if your video is featured in the Explore tab. Featured Reels are public reels chosen by Instagram to help you discover original content. Like, comment and share Reels easily.
The reel is a new platform for people to express themselves and discover more of such content that may also inspire them to become a creator.
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