The Complete Instagram Reels Guide 2024

Short-form video has become a dominant force in social media, and Reels has emerged as a key content format for brands, businesses, and individuals on Instagram. Understanding the ins and outs of Reels is essential for achieving growth and success on the platform. Discover everything you need to know about Instagram Reels below. Learn tips and tricks for making engaging Reels, different ways to upload and schedule your content, and how Metricool can provide insights and analytics to take your entire social media strategy to the next level.

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What are Instagram Reels?

Instagram Reels are short, vertical videos up to 3 minutes long that allow users to express themselves, entertain followers, and discover new content. Launched in 2020, Reels are easily discoverable through the Reels tab and Explore page, making them a key part of the Instagram ecosystem for creating and sharing engaging video content.

Key features and benefits of using Instagram Reels: 

• Short-form Video: Instagram allows users to create and share vertical videos up to 3 minutes long, making it easy to create and consume content on the go.
• Creative Editing: The Instagram Reels feature includes a range of editing tools, such as AR effects, music, and speed controls, which allow users to create unique and engaging content.
• Discoverability: Reels are designed to be easily discoverable through the Reels tab and Explore page, making it easier for users to grow their audience and reach new potential followers.
• Engagement: Instagram Reels encourage engagement through features like likes, comments, and shares, allowing users to interact with their followers and build a sense of community around their content.
• Monetization: For creators and businesses, Instagram Reels offer opportunities for monetization through features like branded content and Instagram Reels ads.

Instagram Reels vs. TikTok

In the world of short-form video content, Instagram Reels and TikTok have become the go-to platforms for creators and brands alike. While they share some similarities, each has its own unique strengths and appeals to different types of users.

Instagram Reels is all about creating curated videos. With its seamless integration into the Instagram app, it’s a natural fit for brands looking to showcase their products or services. The audience here tends to be a bit older and more discerning, valuing high-quality visuals and a more refined aesthetic.

On the other hand, TikTok is all about embracing the raw and unfiltered. It’s a platform where creativity knows no bounds, with videos ranging from 3 seconds to 3 minutes (and potentially even longer in the future). TikTok’s user base is younger and more diverse, and its algorithm is designed to help creators go viral quickly.

How do Instagram Reels Work? 

Instagram Reels are short-form, vertical videos that can be up to 3 minutes long. They are designed to be easily created, edited, and shared within the Instagram app. 

Here’s a breakdown of the technical aspects of Instagram Reels:

• Video Length: Instagram Reels can be up to 3 minutes long.
• Resolution: The minimum resolution for Instagram Reels is 720 pixels, and the maximum is 1080 pixels. Videos with a resolution below 720 pixels are not available in high definition, while those above 1080 pixels are compressed by Instagram to reduce file size.
• File Size: Instagram recommends keeping Reel files under 4GB to ensure smooth uploading and playback.
• Aspect Ratio: When your Reel appears in the dedicated feed, it will be displayed in a 16:9 aspect ratio. However, if your Reel is shown in the Instagram newsfeed, it will be presented in a 4:5 aspect ratio.

Instagram Reels algorithm

The Instagram Reels algorithm is designed to connect users with content that resonates with them, ensuring a unique and engaging experience. This algorithm prioritizes content based on various factors, including user engagement, video quality, and relevance to the user’s interests.

Some key considerations for the Reels algorithm include: 

• Likes and Comments: Engagement metrics such as likes, comments, shares, and saves are crucial in determining the algorithm’s ranking. The more engagement a Reel receives, the more likely it is to be shown to a broader audience.
• User Interests: Past interactions with content, such as liking or commenting, provide valuable cues about a user’s interests and preferences, influencing the algorithm’s recommendations.
• New Content: The algorithm prioritizes new content over older Reels, as users tend to prefer fresh and relevant content.
• Engaged Audience: If a creator has an engaged audience and consistently receives likes and shares, the algorithm is more likely to recommend their content to other users.
• Posting Frequency: Consistently posting Reels helps keep the algorithm aware of your content and ensures that your materials remain engaging.

Instagram Reels engagement metrics

Measuring engagement is crucial for understanding the performance of your Instagram Reels and optimizing your content strategy. Instagram provides several key metrics to track engagement, including views, likes, comments, and saves. By analyzing these metrics, you can gain valuable insights into what resonates with your audience and make data-driven decisions to improve your Reels.

• Views: Views represent the number of times your Reel has been watched. A high view count indicates that your content is reaching a wide audience and capturing their attention.
• Likes: Likes are a simple way for viewers to express their appreciation for your Reel. Tracking likes can help you identify content that resonates with your audience.
• Comments: Comments provide valuable feedback and allow for direct interaction with your viewers. Analyzing comments can help you understand what aspects of your Reel are most engaging and what topics your audience is interested in.
• Saves: Saves occur when a viewer bookmarks your Reel for later viewing or reference. A high save rate suggests that your content is valuable and worth revisiting, indicating strong engagement.

How to Upload Instagram Reels

Personal Instagram accounts can upload Reels from the Instagram app, just as they would for a post or Story. Brands, businesses, or creators with professional Instagram accounts can also utilize the Meta Business Suite to post or schedule their Reels from their mobile or computer.

How to Upload a Reel from the Instagram App

Both personal and professional Instagram accounts can upload a Reel from the Instagram app, much like they would post a Story or photo. 

To upload your Reel: 

1. Tap ‘Create New’ or swipe right in your Feed to open the Reel creation interface.
2. Select ‘Reel’ to record clips by tapping and holding, or tap to start and stop. You can also add videos from your camera roll.
3. Use the tool menu to enhance your Reel with audio, effects, text, stickers, and more.
4. Tap ‘Next’ to enter the editing interface. Here you can rearrange clips, trim them, and make other changes on a timeline view.
5. Confirm your Reel after editing. Add a caption, location, fundraiser, or share to Facebook. Tap ‘Next’ and ‘Share’ to publish your Reel.

How to Upload a Reel with Meta Business Suite

Brands and businesses can easily publish their Instagram Reels using the Meta Business Suite, with the mobile app or from their desktop. The Meta Business Suite provides a convenient way to create and share Reels and manage all your Meta accounts without having to switch between multiple platforms.

✅ Meta Business Suite on mobile: 

1. Open Meta Business Suite and ensure you have the latest version of the app.
2. Select ‘Reel’ from the Home screen.
3. Choose photos or videos from your gallery or tap the Camera button to record a new video.
4. Enhance your reel by adding audio, text, effects, or stickers using the icons on the right side of your screen. 
5. Tap ‘Next’ when you’re finished.
6. Write a relevant description for your reel.
7. Choose the destination for your reel.
8. Tap ‘Share reel’ to publish your reel.

✅ Meta Business Suite on the computer: 

1. Go to Meta Business Suite → Home.
2. Click on ‘Create reel.’
3. Choose which brands to share your reel.
4. Click ‘Add video’ to upload your reel.
5. Write a caption for your reel.
6. Click ‘Next’ to edit your reel.
7. Enhance your reel by adding audio and text using the icons in Tools.
8. Click ‘Next’ to schedule or share your reel.
9. Choose an audience for your reel.
10. Click ‘Share’ to publish your reel.

How to Schedule Instagram Reels

Scheduling content is a convenient way for professional Instagram accounts to plan ahead of time. Professional accounts can schedule their Reels up to 75 days in advance. 

To schedule Instagram Reels: 

1. Start by creating your Reel as you normally would, including recording, editing, and adding effects to your content.
2. Instead of sharing your Reel immediately, select the ‘Advanced Settings’ option to access the scheduling feature.
3. Tap the ‘Schedule’ button and choose the date and time you want the content published. You can schedule up to 25 posts a day and content up to 75 days in advance.
4. Confirm by clicking the ‘Schedule’ button.

How to Download Instagram Reels

Instagram doesn’t allow users to download Reels directly from the app. However, there are many third-party apps and websites that allow you to download Instagram Reels directly to your phone or computer. 

To download Instagram Reels: 

1. Copy the URL of the Reel you want to download by tapping the three dots in the lower right hand corner and selecting ‘Copy Link’.
2. Paste the Reels URL into a reputable third-party Reels downloader and click download. 

Remember that downloading Reels without permission may violate Instagram’s terms of service. The easiest way to revisit Reels is to save them right in the Instagram app. When you come across a Reel you want to watch again, tap the bookmark icon below it. You can find all your saved Reels by tapping the menu icon in your profile and selecting ‘Saved’.

Instagram Reels for Brands

Instagram Reels have become a powerful tool for brands looking to engage with their audience and showcase their products or services in a creative and entertaining way. By leveraging the platform’s vast user base and algorithm, brands can reach a wider audience and drive meaningful interactions.

When you use Instagram Reels in your brand’s marketing strategy, you get: 

• Increased Visibility: Instagram Reels have the potential to reach a large and diverse audience, thanks to the platform’s algorithm that prioritizes engaging content.
• Enhanced Brand Awareness: By creating visually appealing and informative Reels, brands can effectively communicate their message and build a strong brand identity.
• Improved Engagement: Instagram Reels encourage viewers to interact with the content through likes, comments, and shares, fostering a sense of community around the brand.
• Cost-Effective Advertising: Compared to traditional advertising methods, creating and sharing Reels is a cost-effective way for brands to reach their target audience.

Using Instagram Reels in a social media marketing strategy

To get the most out of Instagram Reels, it’s important to incorporate them into your overall social media marketing strategy. This means ensuring your Reels align with your brand’s voice, identity, and business goals.

Here are some key tips to help you effectively use Reels for your brand:

1. Develop a Content Strategy: Create a content calendar that aligns with your brand’s messaging and resonates with your target audience.
2. Leverage Trending Audio and Effects: Use popular audio tracks and effects to increase the discoverability of your Reels and tap into current trends.
3. Collaborate with Influencers and Creators: Partner with influencers and creators who align with your brand’s values to reach a wider audience and build trust.
4. Analyze and Optimize: Monitor your Reels’ performance using Instagram’s analytics tools and make data-driven decisions to optimize your content strategy.

Advertising on Instagram Reels

Instagram Reels also offer advertising opportunities for brands. Reel ads are full-screen, sponsored vertical videos that appear in between organic Reels on the platform.

Some things to remember for Reels ads:

• Your Reel ad can be up to 15 minutes long and should be in full-screen, vertical format.
• Music or sound better fits the Reels placement and creates a more immersive experience.
• Avoid using licensed music. Instead, use royalty-free music or original audio.
• Your ad should not contain face or camera effects, GIFs, or product tags.

You can create your Reels ad through Meta Ads Manager. Choose your ad objective (such as Conversions or Brand Awareness) and set the campaign details including budget, schedule, and audience.

For standalone Reels ad campaigns, manually select Instagram Reels under Placements or opt for Automatic placements. Choose a CTA, finalize your ad, and submit it for review. Upon approval, your ad will be visible in the viewers’ Instagram Reels tab.

How to Monetize on Instagram Reels [Creators]

If you’re an eligible creator on Instagram, you can start earning money by allowing ads to be placed on your Reels. The more views your Reels get that qualify for monetization, the more you’ll earn. If you meet the requirements, you’ll receive an invitation either on your profile or through an in-app notification on your Instagram account.

Instagram handles placing ads on Reels, optimizing them to provide the best experience for viewers.

Eligibility requirements to monetize Reels:

• You must pass and remain compliant with Instagram’s Partner Monetization Policies.
• You must be at least 18 years old.
• You must be located in an approved country.
• You must have a professional account on Instagram.

10 Tips for Instagram Reels

Not sure where to begin with creating Instagram Reels? Here are 10 tips to improve your reach, increase engagement, and create popular content that resonates with your audience. 

1. Center Text: Keep important text centered in your video to ensure visibility, especially in the newsfeed where the aspect ratio is 4:5.
2. Use On-Screen Captions: Incorporate clear, readable on-screen text and captions to enhance engagement and convey your message effectively.
3. Optimize Hashtags: Utilize 3-5 relevant hashtags per Reel, blending trending and niche tags to broaden your audience reach.
4. Include Keywords: Enhance discoverability by integrating keywords in your captions alongside hashtags to attract viewers searching for specific topics.
5. Engage with Comments: Foster community and loyalty by responding to comments on your Reels, encouraging interaction and dialogue with your audience.
6. Leverage Native Features: Enhance your Reels with Instagram’s built-in filters, effects, and music to create visually captivating content.
7. Keep it Concise: Maintain brevity by crafting videos that are 15-60 seconds long, ensuring they are engaging and to the point.
8. Prioritize Audio Quality: Elevate the professionalism of your Reels by using high-quality audio tracks or recording clear voiceovers for enhanced engagement.
9. Experiment with Formats: Explore diverse content formats like tutorials, Q&A sessions, or behind-the-scenes footage to keep your audience intrigued and engaged.
10. Analyze Performance: Utilize Instagram’s analytics tools to monitor metrics such as views, likes, and comments, enabling you to refine your content strategy for optimal results.

Instagram Reels with Metricool

Metricool is a powerful all-in-one platform that allows you to create, schedule, and analyze your Instagram Reels alongside all your other social media content. It’s the Swiss army knife of social media, enabling you to plan, publish, and track your brand’s performance across multiple channels.

Create and schedule Instagram Reels with Metricool

With Metricool, you can create, schedule, and auto-publish content for Instagram and all other major social media platforms, streamlining the content creation process and saving you time.

To publish Instagram Reels with Metricool:

1. Go to your Metricool dashboard and select ‘Planning’ to access your content calendar.
2. Click ‘+ Create post’. 
3. Tap the Instagram icon from the top of the content creation screen, and choose ‘Reel’ from the dropdown menu to create an Instagram Reel. 
4. Add your content, generate popular hashtags, write a caption, and view a preview of your Reel. 
5. When you’re satisfied, choose either ‘Schedule’, ‘Publish now’, ‘Save as draft’, or ‘Send to review’.

Instagram Reels analytics with Metricool

Metricool’s analytics suite provides insights into your Instagram Reels performance, engagement, and reach. 

From your dashboard, you can access:

• Organic Reels Summary: Average engagement rate, number of interactions, average reach per Reel, total number of video views, and Reels posted in a period. 
• Organic Reels Interactions: Number of likes, comments, saves, shares, and Reels posted over a period of time.
• List of Reels: Individual Reels with publish date, reach, interactions, and engagement per Reel.

Gretchen Oestreicher , 29 May 2024