It’s no secret that you need a digital presence if you want to scale your business in 2025. The Instagram algorithm favors video content (aka reels) and pushes it out to audiences who are interested in what you have to offer.
Instagram reels are a surefire way to get your name in front of thousands . . . LIT-ER-A-LLY 👏🏽 thousands. . . of leads each and every day! They are the number one way to increase your visibility and drive engagement to your social media account!
But if you’re new to IG (or even if you’re not), reels can feel intimidating, to say the least.
How do I capture quality video footage?
How can I look presentable when I don’t have time to do my hair and makeup most days (#busybusinessownerproblems)?
And do I really have to dance in order to go viral?
In today’s post, I’m sharing tips to help you create reels in a snap.
Keep It Short and Sweet
Reels are typically short-form videos. The sweet spot is between 15 and 30 seconds, but you can record up to 90 seconds.
Create Crisp, Clear Videos
Use footage that is clear. Wipe off your camera lens before filming, and use good lighting for better-quality video. If your filming area is dimly lit, try taking things outside. Natural lighting will be your best friend!
Experiment with a Variety of Video Types
There are several different ways to create reel content. You can film yourself talking about a specific topic, create a lip-synching or dancing trend, or use b-roll footage (more on that below). Each type of video performs differently, so don’t be afraid to experiment.
Don’t Overcomplicate Your Video Footage
B-roll footage makes creating reels simple. This is video footage that doesn’t require you to face the camera or film with a script.
You can film a b-roll in less than 30 seconds, and you might even already have some in your camera roll.
B-roll is also great if you don’t want to show your face. In fact, faceless reels are becoming more and more popular!
Here are some b-roll inspo ideas:
- Drinking coffee
- Cleaning your office
- Working on your laptop
- Taking a walk
- Filming a sunset
- Attending a workshop
- Writing in your journal
- Playing with your kids
Add Text Overlays
Add text to your video directly in the Instagram app. Use the text on the screen as an opportunity to hook your viewers. This will encourage them to watch and engage with your content. You should also include a call to action on your video so viewers know what you want them to do (i.e., read the caption, DM me, follow me, etc.)
Be Yourself!
You don’t have to be perfectly polished to show up on video. Your audience connects with you when you show up as your authentic self. I promise nobody is judging you for wearing sweats on screen. The next time you hesitate to create a reel because you don’t feel “put together,” don’t let that stop you!
How to Brainstorm Reel Ideas
Now that you’ve gone through Reels 101, I want to send you off with some ideas so you can get started.
- Industry trends
- Behind the scenes of your business
- User-Generated Content (UGC)
- Teach your audience how to do something
- Comments and DMs to create content
- Repurpose previous posts, emails, and podcasts
- Take FAQs from clients and leads and turn them into content
- Funny memes relating to your industry
- Start a weekly series
- Share a time you struggled and how you overcame it
Ready? Go out there today and start posting reels! The more you practice, the better you’ll get.
If you need someone to do the heavy lifting of reel creation for you, let’s chat! I’d love to help you build a social media presence with massive visibility for your best year yet. Book a Discovery Call with me to learn more!
About the Author, Devin Brinkley, Creative Gravity Social Media
This week’s blog post comes to you from Devin Brinkley, the founder and CEO of Creative Gravity Social Media and District Bliss Member.
Devin Brinkley, MBA, social media strategist and serial entrepreneur, is passionate about empowering underrepresented business owners through social media. She founded Creative Gravity Social Media in 2020, offering authentic and organic social media services to help businesses thrive online. Devin is an advocate for creating a more inclusive and vibrant digital space.
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