How Long Can a Reel Be on Instagram? A 2023 Creator’s Guide

With its short-form video format, Reels has become a valuable tool for businesses, creators, and influencers to connect with their audiences and showcase their creativity. Stick around as we dive deeper into the topic and provide you with a complete guide on Reels’ length, setting up, and finding ideas.

Let’s get started!

How Long Can A Reel Be on Instagram in 2023?

As of 2023, Instagram Reels can be up to 90 seconds long, providing enough time for creators to showcase their creativity and engage their audiences. With this length, businesses and creators can create more in-depth content and share tutorials, behind-the-scenes moments, and even promote products or services.

Additionally, in July 2022, Instagram announced that all uploaded videos would automatically become Reels.

How to Set Up the Length of an Instagram Reel?

Setting up the length of your Instagram Reel is a simple process. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open the Instagram app and tap on the plus icon at the bottom of your screen.
2. Swipe through the content options at the bottom of the screen and choose Reel.
3. You will see a timer option on the left side of the screen. Tap on it to adjust the length of your Reel from 15 seconds to 90 seconds.
4. Once you’ve selected the length, you can start recording your Reel.

What is the Best Reel Length for Engagement?

While the maximum length for Reels is 90 seconds, it’s important to note that shorter Reels tend to perform better in terms of engagement. 

Namely, Instagram Reels were developed in response to the surge of short-form video content primarily originating from TikTok. Hence, it’s generally advisable to stick to shorter videos. Shorter videos leave your audience wanting more, enticing them to explore your other videos and remain engaged with your profile.

Keeping your Reels between 7 to 15 seconds is a useful guideline, as shorter Reels tend to loop and count as multiple views. This signals the algorithm that your video is gaining significant views, resulting in its promotion to a wider audience.

However, there isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” rule for video length. Thus, it’s worth experimenting with various Reel lengths to see what connects best with your followers.

How to Find Ideas for Reels?

Coming up with Reels ideas can be challenging, especially if you’re new to the platform. Nevertheless, there are several ways to find inspiration and create engaging content for your audience:

• Browse through Reels from other creators and businesses in your niche: This will give you an idea of the type of content that resonates with your audience and what works well on the platform.
• Use Instagram’s search feature to find popular hashtags related to your industry: Discover trending topics and content ideas that you can use to create Reels.
• Take inspiration from your most popular posts on Instagram: Repurpose your best-performing content into a Reel to reach a wider audience and drive engagement.
• Share your personal experiences and behind-the-scenes moments: This will help your audience connect with you on a more personal level and create a sense of community.

Tips for Creating Engaging Reels

Creating engaging Reels is all about capturing the attention of your audience and delivering a message that resonates with them. With 55% of marketers planning to use Instagram for influencer marketing, Reels can definitely be a powerful tool. 

Here are some tips for creating engaging Reels:

• Use a catchy and attention-grabbing thumbnail to encourage viewers to watch your Reel.
• Start your Reel with a strong hook to grab the viewer’s attention and keep them engaged.
• Keep your Reel short and to the point, with a clear message and a strong call to action.
• Use on-screen text and graphics to reinforce your message and make your Reel more visually appealing.
• Use relevant hashtags and geotags to make your Reel discoverable to a wider audience.
• Use music and sound effects to enhance your Reel and create a mood or atmosphere that fits the content.
• Collaborate with other creators or businesses in your niche to create engaging and shareable content.
• Engage with your audience by responding to comments direct messages, and by asking for feedback and suggestions.

Final Thoughts

Instagram Reels is a valuable tool for businesses, creators, and influencers to connect with their audiences and showcase their creativity. While the maximum length for Reels is 90 seconds, shorter Reels tend to perform better in terms of engagement. 

By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this article, you can create engaging Reels that resonate with your audience and help you grow your presence on the platform. So, what are you waiting for? Start creating Reels that capture the attention of your audience and help you achieve your goals on Instagram.