The Definitive Guide to Mastering Instagram Reels and Achieving Viral Growth

What are Instagram Reels, and Why has Instagram Switched to Reels?

Instagram changed the game for video content! The introduction of Instagram reels not only elevates the overall Instagram video experience but also unlocks a world of new possibilities for Instagram users and those looking to save Instagram Reels.

Yep, that means almost every video on Instagram will now flow through the Reels stream. To be precise, Instagram Reels are vertical videos that fill the entire screen. When recorded within the app, they can be up to 90 seconds long, while pre-shot videos can be up to 15 minutes long when uploaded.

But Why the switch? Well, Reels are exploding in popularity. People can't get enough of this format, thanks to the TikTok craze that's reshaping how we consume content. It's time to ride the Reels wave and boost your engagement.

But wait, there's more! Instagram is introducing awesome creative tools for reel clips. Now you can collaborate like never before. These Instagram updates will provide more opportunities for collaboration within reel clips.

Expanded Remix layouts

• Expanded Remix layouts provide options like green screen, split-screen, and picture-in-picture, allowing users to add video commentary to existing Reels.

• Users can now add their clip after the original reel, playing it sequentially instead of simultaneously.

Reels Templates & Dual Camera Mode

Reels Templates

• Instagram expanded reel templates, allowing users to utilize popular formats for their clips.

• Templates save time and effort by offering pre-designed formats to create engaging Reels.

Interested in learning how to use Instagram reel templates? Watch Hootsuite's informative video.

Dual Camera Mode

• The new Dual camera mode enables simultaneous content and reaction capture using front and back cameras.

• It adds dynamic storytelling and boosts engagement in Reels.

How Does the Instagram Reels Algorithm Function?

Want to understand how the Instagram Reels algorithm works? Click here to learn more.

The Instagram Reels algorithm functions by prioritizing videos based on their perceived likelihood of engaging viewers. Several key factors influence the algorithm's decision-making process:

User Interactions

The algorithm considers the posts you frequently interact with, such as liking or commenting on content through Instagram hashtags and tags. If you engage with someone's posts regularly, you are more likely to see their content in your Reels feeds.

Content Preferences

The algorithm takes into account the type of content you engage with. For instance, if you enjoy specific content categories and incorporate corresponding hashtags for Instagram Reels or use relevant Instagram tags, the algorithm will continue to show similar content based on your preferences.

Timing and Relevance

The timing of a post is a crucial aspect considered by the algorithm. It determines if the content is relevant to you based on when it was posted. Additionally, the algorithm considers your scrolling habits to select and prioritize the content to display.

In summary, the Reels algorithm favors original, entertaining, and high-resolution videos. Including captivating captions for Instagram posts increases the chances of reaching a wider audience.

How To Make a Reel on Instagram?

Two Approaches to Creating Instagram Reels :

1. The Reels Tab

To make a Reel from the Reels tab, simply tap on the Reels tab and click the camera icon located at the top right of your screen.

2. From Home Screen

This approach requires more effort and planning. It involves creatively building reels, adding effects, texts, and audio, and editing the clips. Templates are also available to provide a starting point.

Creating a Reel in Practice:

1. On Instagram, click the plus button.

2. Start recording your Reel or upload content from your camera roll.

3. Reels can be recorded in a series of clips or all at once.

Make Compelling Reels

• Demonstrate your product or service in action, highlighting the surrounding elements.

• Showcase top picks, provide styling tips, share behind-the-scenes glimpses, and emphasize why customers should choose your brand.

How Do You Post and Download a Reel on Instagram?

To post a Reel on Instagram, follow these simple steps:

1. Finalize Your Video

After uploading your video, review it along with the effects and sounds to ensure everything is as desired.

2. Double-Check the Details

Tap "Next" in the bottom right corner of the screen. Add relevant hashtags for Instagram posts and captivating one-word Instagram captions . To increase your reach, use proper Instagram profile photos. You can also choose to cross-post your reel using hashtags for Instagram Reels.

3. Share Your Reel

At the bottom of the screen, you'll find two buttons. One saves the video to your drafts, while the other shares it on the platform. Once you hit "share," your Reel will be successfully published.

Interested in learning how to upload Instagram reels with high quality? Click here!

To download your own Instagram Reels, follow these steps:

• Open Instagram and go to your account's Reels tab.

• Find the Reel you want to save and tap on it to open it in full-screen mode.

• Tap the three dots in the bottom right corner to access the menu.

• Select "Save to Camera Roll." The video will be saved automatically to your device.

Interested in learning how to download Instagram Reels and share them on social media platforms? Click here!

4 Tips for Going Viral with Instagram Reels

1. Stay Up-to-Date with Trends and Post Content Consistently

Stay in the loop with trends in topics, music, effects, and styles. Use trending hashtags on Instagram to boost your content's reach and engagement. Show awareness of the evolving social media landscape by posting consistently and providing a distinctive brand narrative.

According to a study by SportSocial, it is recommended to start with an average benchmark of posting 1-2 times a day.

2. Incorporate Humor and Evoke Emotions

Emotions play a crucial role in making content shareable. One of the most effective emotions to leverage is humor. Explore ways to authentically infuse humor into your content to connect with your audience and attract more Instagram followers.

3. Post when your Followers are Active

Timing is crucial on social media. Posting when your followers are active maximizes early engagements, signaling popularity to the algorithm. Catch your audience's attention with your Instagram bio to ensure visibility and impact.

To know the best time, open the app, go to your profile, tap professional dashboard, > account insights, > total followers, > most Active Times.

4. Feature Relatable and Engaging Talent

Choose relatable, experienced, expressive, and versatile talent for your product or service. Test multiple actors to find those who resonate best with your audience. 66% of consumers find short-form video content the most engaging, as per Sprout Social.

WHAT TO AVOID?

• Excessive Posting

• Breaching Community Guidelines

• Sharing Misinformation:

How Brands Are Using Instagram Reels to Improve Their Marketing Strategy

Let's explore the top brands that have leveraged Reels to craft innovative and captivating content for their audience.

Samsung

Samsung's marketing approach emphasizes the importance of understanding the audience by implementing a reel strategy that shares diverse content types to entertain and showcase their products.

With a focus on tech enthusiasts, Samsung crafts Reels that resonate with its target demographic.

The company also prioritizes visually captivating videos that have the potential to go viral. Consequently, Samsung's reel posts not only entertain but also showcase the uniqueness of their products, using captivating Instagram highlight covers.

PlayStation

An excellent illustration of effective marketing through Instagram Reels can be seen in PlayStation's promotion of their new game Stray, where players assume the role of a cat navigating a post-apocalyptic world.

During July, the gaming giant shared a captivating reel featuring the game's protagonist, Ginger, and within a month, the clip garnered an impressive 1.3 million views, effectively providing a glimpse into the gameplay while showcasing the game's remarkable camera work and graphics.

This example highlights the immense potential of Instagram Reels as a powerful tool for marketers when utilized strategically.