Instagram Reels – All You need to know to grow

Instagram Reels is a feature on the photo and video sharing social networking service Instagram that allows users to create and edit 15-second multi-clip videos set to music. It was introduced in August 2020 as a response to the increasing popularity of Chinese short video platform TikTok.

Instagram Reels has been successful in attracting users and content creators, particularly in the creative and entertainment industries, due to its integration with the popular Instagram platform and its ability to reach a large audience. Reels also benefits from Instagram’s algorithms, which can recommend Reels to users based on their interests and interactions with other content on the platform.

While YouTube remains the dominant platform for online video, Instagram Reels and other short-form video platforms like TikTok have gained significant traction in recent years, particularly among younger audiences. These platforms offer a more casual and interactive video experience, and have become an important outlet for creativity and self-expression for many users.

It is worth noting that YouTube and Instagram Reels serve different purposes and cater to different audiences, so it is difficult to compare them directly in terms of their dominance in the video space. YouTube is primarily a platform for hosting and sharing longer-form, professionally produced videos, while Instagram Reels is focused on shorter, more casual and often spontaneous content. Both platforms have their own unique strengths and appeal to different users, and it is likely that they will continue to coexist and compete for users in the video space.

How the Instagram Reels Algorithm Works

The Reels algorithm determines which Reels are shown to a particular user based on a variety of factors, including the user’s past behavior on the platform, the user’s network of followers and interactions, and the overall popularity of the Reel.

The Reels algorithm also takes into account the relevance of the Reel to the user, based on the user’s location, interests, and other factors. For example, a Reel that is popular among users in a particular location or with a particular interest may be more likely to be shown to users with similar interests or locations.

To increase the chances of a Reel being shown to a wider audience, creators can use relevant hashtags, tags, and locations in their Reels. It’s also a good idea to promote the Reel through other social media channels and to engage with other users by commenting on and liking their content.

There are several factors that can contribute to an Instagram Reel going viral:

1. Unique and engaging content: A viral Reel is likely to be one that offers something different, interesting, or entertaining to the viewer.
2. Use of hashtags: Hashtags can help Reels reach a wider audience and increase the chances of going viral.
3. Collaboration with influencers: Collaborating with influencers can increase the visibility of a Reel and help it reach a larger audience.
4. Collaboration with other users: Collaborating with other users can also increase the visibility of a Reel, especially if the other user has a large following.
5. Timing: Reels that are posted at a time when users are most active on Instagram are more likely to go viral.
6. Consistent posting: Posting Reels consistently can help build an audience and increase the chances of a Reel going viral.
7. Social media promotion: Promoting Reels on other social media platforms or through paid advertising can help increase the chances of a Reel going viral.

How to create the best Instagram reel

1. Choose a topic: Choose a topic that is relevant and interesting to your audience. This could be a tutorial, a funny moment, or something that showcases your personality or expertise.
2. Gather footage: Collect footage that is related to your topic. This could be footage you have shot yourself or footage you have sourced from elsewhere. Make sure the footage is high quality and fits the theme of your reel.
3. Edit your footage: Use video editing software to combine and trim your footage. Make sure to include a variety of shots and angles to keep the reel interesting.
4. Add music: Choose a catchy and fitting song to add to your reel. Make sure the music is not copyrighted, as this could result in your reel being taken down.
5. Add captions: Use captions to provide context and further explain your topic. This is especially important for users who are viewing your reel with the sound off.
6. Add hashtags: Use relevant hashtags to help your reel reach a wider audience. You can also tag any relevant accounts or people featured in your reel.
7. Preview and publish: Preview your reel to make sure everything looks and sounds good. Then, hit publish and share your reel with your followers!