Verily, the Instagram video – Stories, Reels, and Live – doth stand as an absolute necessity in thy brand’s social media strategy. Thou hast surely discerned the brevity of thy Instagram feed in recent days, lacking in the post type that once graced the platform: photos. Instagram video, in all its glory, now reigns supreme, from the fleeting Stories to the engaging Reels to the lively Instagram Live.
Within this discourse, we shall elucidate upon the diverse options at thy disposal for sharing videos on Instagram, and guide thee on the path to garnering the attention thy meticulously crafted videos deserve.
Types of Instagram Video
Instagram Feed Video
In times of yore (that is, until 2022), Instagram feed videos appeared in a horizontal or square format. Alas, videos posted afore 2022 still reside in their original form, yet now find shelter beneath the Reels tab. For in the year 2022, all fresh video endeavors are birthed as Reels.
Save for videos nestled in Instagram carousels, a carousel may house unto 10 photos and videos, all in harmony of orientation. Should thy photos be of a horizontal or square nature, so too shall thy videos be.
Thus, Instagram feed video has taken its leave, accompanying its cousin IGTV into the annals of history. Yet your Instagram feed likely plays host to a multitude of Reels.
Reels
Reels, a poignant response to TikTok by Instagram, were once confined to a mere 15-second duration. However, as the platform bid adieu to traditional feed videos and IGTV, the confines of Reels expanded first to 60 seconds and then to 90 seconds. Such is the current time limit when crafting Reels within Instagram itself.
The native tools for recording Reels in Instagram include filters, templates, green screen mode, timers, speed controls, and an audio library. Reels unfold in a vertical portrait mode (9:16) and grace users’ feeds, the Explore page, and a dedicated Reels tab. These cinematic creations may boast captions, hashtags, and product tags.
Engagement with Reels abounds – users may express adoration through likes, comments, or sharing in Instagram Stories and direct messages. Furthermore, they hold the power to remix your Reels, birthing new content in the process.
Stories
Instagram Stories, fleeting videos that fade after 24 hours, once upheld a 15-second limit. Alas, each snippet in thy Instagram Story may now stretch unto 60 seconds. Yet, should a lengthier tale be told, it shall be divided into multiple clips.
Methinks, rather than gracing the Instagram feed, Stories emerge in a dedicated realm atop the screen upon the app’s initiation. To embark on the creation of an Instagram video in this realm, one may swipe right from the home screen or invoke the plus icon, selecting Stories. Therein lies the choice betwixt recording within the app or uploading a video from thy photo library.
Stories, by nature ephemeral, find respite in oblivion after 24 hours. If thou wishest them to linger longer, Instagram Stories highlights may immortalize them upon thy profile for eternity. Interactive elements such as filters, emojis, tags, and stickers lend a certain charm to Stories. Stickers, in particular, open avenues for audience engagement through polls, questions, and quizzes. Shouldst thou tag another in thy Story, they possess the power to share it in their own tale.
A rare haven on Instagram where direct links may reside, Stories provide brands with a potent means to lead mortals down the path of organic leads and conversions.
Live
Instagram Live beckons users to stream video directly into their audience’s feeds. Brands and creators alike have utilized Instagram Live to host workshops, interviews, and more. Commence a Live broadcast by swiping right or tapping the plus icon, toggling to Live. These live streams may endure up to four hours and may welcome unto three guests through a virtual Live Room.
When a mortal embarks upon a Live odyssey, they shall find themselves at the forefront of their followers’ Stories bar, adorned with a Live icon. Upon the culmination of the Live spectacle, the video shall be preserved in the broadcasting account’s Live archive for 30 days. Thenceforth, a replay may be shared. Though not birthed as Reels, the replay shall find its abode within thy Reels tab.
During thy Live voyage, thou shalt be granted insight into the number of souls beholding thy stream. Instagram Live analytics stand as a beacon, illuminating the reach and engagement of thy broadcast.
The Live audience holds the power to engage through comments, emoji reactions, or the noble acquisition of badges to support thy content. This form of follower funding proves a boon to creators. Nonprofits, too, may wield Instagram Live in the pursuit of live fundraisers in partnership with PayPal Giving Fund.
In Conclusion
Shouldst thou seek to partake in the realm of Instagram videos, remember these words of guidance. Hook thy viewers swiftly, offering them a reason to linger. Provide value through entertainment, information, or inspiration. Embrace the diverse formats – from the whimsical Reels to the evanescent Stories to the lively Live broadcasts. Let thy creativity unfurl, capturing the hearts and minds of those who journey through the realm of Instagram.
Thus, armed with knowledge and creativity, embark on thy quest to conquer the realm of Instagram videos, and let thine brand’s story be told in the digital tapestry of social media.
