how to post a video on instagram without it being a reel
Instagram is a powerful platform for sharing visual content. It's particularly popular for video content, which can drive high engagement and follower growth.
But what if you want to post a video without it being a reel?
Reels are Instagram's answer to the short-form video trend, popularized by TikTok. They're fun, engaging, and can be highly effective. But they're not always the right format for every piece of content.
Perhaps you have a longer video to share. Or maybe you prefer the traditional video format. Whatever your reasons, it's important to know how to post a video on Instagram without it being a reel.
This guide is here to help.
We'll walk you through the process step-by-step. We'll also share tips for optimizing your video content for better engagement. Plus, we'll explore the different video formats available on Instagram.
Whether you're a social media enthusiast, a content creator, a marketer, a small business owner, or just someone looking to enhance their personal brand, this guide is for you.
We'll cover everything from preparing your video for upload, to writing compelling captions, to leveraging hashtags for greater visibility.
We'll also delve into the world of IGTV for longer video content. And we'll share strategies for maximizing engagement with your video posts.
So, are you ready to dive in?
Let's start exploring how to post a video on Instagram without it being a reel.
Understanding Instagram Video Options
Instagram offers several options for sharing video content. Each has its own unique features and benefits. Understanding these options can help you choose the right format for your content.
First, let's talk about Instagram feed videos. These are the traditional videos that appear in your followers' feeds. They can be up to 60 seconds long. This makes them a great option for longer content that doesn't fit into the short, snappy format of a reel.
Instagram Feed Videos vs. Reels
Reels, on the other hand, are short, 15 to 30-second videos. They're designed to be quick and engaging, with the option to add music and special effects.
While reels can be a fun and creative way to share content, they're not always the best choice. For example, if you have a longer video or a piece of content that doesn't lend itself to the reel format, you might prefer to post it as a regular video.
It's also worth noting that reels have their own separate tab on your profile. This means they won't appear in your main feed unless you choose to share them there. On the other hand, regular videos will appear in your feed by default.
IGTV and Instagram Stories
In addition to feed videos and reels, Instagram also offers IGTV and Stories. IGTV is designed for longer videos, up to 60 minutes in length. It's a great option if you have longer content to share, like a tutorial or a webinar.
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Stories, meanwhile, are short, 15-second clips that disappear after 24 hours. They're perfect for sharing quick updates, behind-the-scenes content, or anything else you want to share without it staying on your profile permanently.
Each of these options has its own benefits and drawbacks. The key is to understand what each one offers and choose the one that best fits your content and your goals.
Preparing Your Video for Instagram
Before you post your video on Instagram, there are a few things you need to consider. The first is the format of your video. Instagram supports several video formats, but the most common are MP4 and MOV.
It's also important to consider the aspect ratio of your video. This is the ratio of the width to the height of your video. Instagram supports several aspect ratios, but the most common are 1:1 (square), 4:5 (vertical), and 1.91:1 (horizontal).
Choosing the Right Format and Resolution
The format and resolution of your video can have a big impact on its quality. For the best results, you should aim to upload your video in the highest resolution possible.
However, keep in mind that Instagram compresses videos to save space. This means that even if you upload a high-resolution video, it may not look as crisp and clear on Instagram as it does on your computer or phone.
To minimize the impact of this compression, try to keep your video's file size under 100MB. You can do this by reducing the length of your video or by compressing it before you upload it.
Editing and Enhancing Your Video
Once you've chosen the right format and resolution, it's time to edit your video. Instagram offers a range of editing tools that you can use to enhance your video.
These tools allow you to trim your video, add filters, adjust the brightness and contrast, and more. You can also add music, text, and stickers to your video to make it more engaging.
Remember, the goal is to create a video that is engaging and visually appealing. So don't be afraid to experiment with different editing techniques until you find what works best for your content.
Step-by-Step Guide to Posting a Video on Your Instagram Feed
Now that your video is ready, it's time to post it on Instagram. There are two main ways to do this: you can either upload a video from your gallery or record a video directly through the Instagram app.
Regardless of the method you choose, the process is relatively straightforward. However, there are a few steps you need to follow to ensure your video is posted correctly.
Uploading from Your Gallery
If you have a video on your phone that you'd like to post on Instagram, you can do so by uploading it from your gallery. Here's how:
Open the Instagram app and tap the '+' icon at the bottom of the screen.
This will open your phone's gallery. Scroll through your photos and videos until you find the video you want to post.
Tap on the video to select it. You'll then be taken to a screen where you can trim the video and choose a cover image.
Once you're happy with your video, tap 'Next'. This will take you to a screen where you can write a caption, tag people, and add a location.
When you're ready to post your video, tap 'Share'. Your video will then be posted to your Instagram feed.
Recording Directly Through the App
If you prefer, you can also record a video directly through the Instagram app. This can be a great option if you want to capture something in the moment. Here's how:
Open the Instagram app and tap the camera icon at the top left of the screen.
This will open the camera. To record a video, press and hold the circular button at the bottom of the screen.
When you're done recording, release the button. You'll then be taken to a screen where you can add filters, text, and stickers to your video.
Once you're happy with your video, tap 'Next'. This will take you to a screen where you can write a caption, tag people, and add a location.
When you're ready to post your video, tap 'Share'. Your video will then be posted to your Instagram feed.
Remember, whether you're uploading a video from your gallery or recording one through the app, it's important to take the time to craft a compelling caption and use relevant hashtags. This will help your video reach a wider audience and increase its engagement.
Writing Captions and Using Hashtags
Once you've uploaded or recorded your video, the next step is to write a caption and add hashtags. These elements play a crucial role in how your video is perceived and discovered by others on Instagram.
Crafting Compelling Captions
A good caption can make a big difference in the success of your Instagram video. It's your chance to provide context, share your thoughts, or tell a story related to your video.
The best captions are concise yet engaging. They capture the viewer's attention and encourage them to interact with your post.
Remember to keep your audience in mind when writing your caption. Use a tone and language that resonate with them.
Including a call-to-action in your caption can also be effective. This could be a question to encourage comments, or an invitation to share your post.
Lastly, don't forget to proofread your caption before posting. Spelling and grammar mistakes can detract from your message and look unprofessional.
The Power of Hashtags
Hashtags are a powerful tool on Instagram. They can help your videos get discovered by a wider audience.
When you add a hashtag to your post, it becomes searchable. This means that users who follow or search for that hashtag can see your post.
It's important to use relevant and specific hashtags. This will help you reach the right audience and increase the chances of engagement.
You can use up to 30 hashtags on a post, but it's not always necessary to use them all. Too many hashtags can look spammy and may deter some users.
Remember, the goal is to use hashtags to reach a wider audience and engage with them, not just to get more views or likes. So choose your hashtags wisely.
Tagging, Sharing, and Engaging
After crafting your caption and adding relevant hashtags, it's time to consider tagging, sharing, and engaging with your audience. These actions can significantly boost the visibility and impact of your Instagram videos.
Tagging Users and Brands
Tagging is a feature that allows you to link other Instagram accounts to your post. This can be useful for a variety of reasons.
For instance, if your video features a person or a brand, tagging them can give them credit. It also notifies them about your post, which can lead to more engagement.
Tagging can also help you reach a wider audience. When you tag someone, your post may appear on their profile, exposing it to their followers.
However, it's important to use this feature responsibly. Only tag accounts that are relevant to your video. Inappropriate or excessive tagging can be seen as spam and may harm your reputation.
Sharing and Reposting Videos
Sharing and reposting videos is another way to increase your reach on Instagram. This can be done in several ways.
You can share your own video posts to your Instagram Stories. This can help draw attention to your post, especially if you have a large Stories audience.
You can also repost videos from other users, with their permission. This can provide valuable content for your followers and help build relationships with other Instagram users.
Finally, encouraging your followers to share your videos can significantly increase your reach. You can do this by asking them directly in your caption or by creating content that they will want to share with their friends.
Remember, the goal of sharing and reposting is not just to get more views, but to engage with your audience and build a community around your content.
Leveraging IGTV for Longer Videos
Instagram offers a variety of video formats, each with its own unique benefits. One such format is IGTV, Instagram's platform for long-form video content.
IGTV allows you to post videos that are longer than the 60-second limit imposed on feed videos. This makes it an excellent choice for more in-depth content, such as tutorials, interviews, or mini-documentaries.
However, IGTV isn't just for longer videos. It also offers features not available in feed videos, such as the ability to add a title and description, and the option to post a preview to your feed.
In the following sections, we'll discuss when to choose IGTV over feed videos and how to upload your content to IGTV.
When to Choose IGTV Over Feed Videos
Choosing between IGTV and feed videos depends on several factors. The most obvious is the length of your video. If your video is longer than 60 seconds, you'll need to use IGTV.
But length isn't the only consideration. IGTV is also a better choice for content that requires more context. The ability to add a title and description allows you to provide more information about your video.
Finally, consider your audience's viewing habits. If your followers prefer longer, more in-depth content, IGTV may be the better choice.
How to Upload to IGTV
Uploading a video to IGTV is a straightforward process. Start by tapping the plus icon at the bottom of the screen, then select IGTV.
Next, choose a video from your gallery. Remember, IGTV videos must be between one minute and 60 minutes long.
After selecting your video, you'll be able to add a title and description. Use this space to provide context for your video and include any relevant hashtags.
Finally, choose whether to post a preview to your feed, then tap "Post" to upload your video to IGTV. Congratulations, you've just posted your first IGTV video!
Maximizing Engagement with Video Content
Posting a video on Instagram is just the first step. The real challenge lies in maximizing engagement with your video content.
Engagement is a key metric on Instagram. It refers to the interactions your content receives, such as likes, comments, and shares. High engagement rates can boost your content's visibility, helping you reach a wider audience.
In the following sections, we'll discuss some best practices for video engagement and how to analyze your performance using Instagram Insights.
Best Practices for Video Engagement
Engaging video content is more than just visually appealing. It should also resonate with your audience and encourage interaction.
One way to boost engagement is by creating content that prompts a response. This could be a question in your caption, a call-to-action, or a controversial statement.
Another strategy is to respond to comments on your video. This not only fosters a sense of community but also signals to Instagram that your content is engaging.
Finally, consider the timing of your posts. Posting when your audience is most active can increase the chances of your video being seen and interacted with.
Analyzing Performance with Instagram Insights
Instagram Insights is a powerful tool for understanding how your content is performing. It provides data on your audience, reach, and engagement, among other metrics.
To access Insights, tap the menu icon on your profile, then select "Insights". From here, you can view data for your overall account or for individual posts.
For video posts, pay close attention to the "Engagement" section. This shows the number of likes, comments, shares, and saves your video has received.
Also, consider the "Reach" and "Impressions" metrics. These show how many people have seen your video and how many times it's been viewed.
By analyzing this data, you can identify what's working and what's not, allowing you to refine your video content strategy over time.
Advanced Tips and Creative Ideas for Instagram Videos
Now that you've mastered the basics of posting a video on Instagram, it's time to explore some advanced tips and creative ideas.
In this section, we'll delve into some unique content ideas beyond Reels. We'll also discuss how to utilize Instagram's features to create unique video experiences.
Creative Content Ideas Beyond Reels
While Reels are popular, they're not the only way to create engaging video content on Instagram.
Consider creating a tutorial or how-to video. These types of videos provide value to your followers and can help establish you as an expert in your field.
Behind-the-scenes content is another great idea. It gives your audience a glimpse into your process, making your brand more relatable.
You could also try creating a video series. This can keep your audience engaged over a longer period and gives them something to look forward to.
Finally, don't be afraid to experiment with different video formats, like stop-motion or time-lapse. These can provide a unique visual effect that sets your content apart.
Utilizing Features for Unique Video Experiences
Instagram offers a variety of features that can enhance your video content.
For example, you can use filters and effects to add a creative touch to your videos. These can be found in the camera interface when you're recording a video directly through the app.
You can also use stickers to make your videos more interactive. For instance, the 'Poll' sticker allows you to ask your viewers a question and see their responses in real-time.
The 'Questions' sticker is another great tool for engagement. It encourages your viewers to interact with your video by asking a question or sharing their thoughts.
Finally, consider using Instagram's 'Highlight' feature. This allows you to preserve your video stories on your profile, making them accessible even after they disappear from your story feed.
By leveraging these features, you can create unique video experiences that stand out and engage your audience.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In conclusion, posting a video on Instagram without it being a Reel is not only possible but also offers a wealth of opportunities for creativity and engagement.
By understanding the different video options on Instagram, preparing your video effectively, and leveraging the platform's features, you can create compelling content that resonates with your audience.
Remember, the key to successful video content on Instagram lies in authenticity, creativity, and consistent engagement with your audience. Keep experimenting, analyzing your performance, and refining your strategy to make the most of your Instagram video content.