Longer videos on Instagram? Yes, please. For years, the platform was synonymous with short-form content. However, as things like Instagram Reels and Stories evolved, so did the appeal of sharing longer videos with your followers. Now, you can post videos up to 60 minutes long on Instagram. And if you’re looking to expand your reach, applying some proven YouTube marketing tips can help you grow your audience across platforms.
And while this may seem like a random number, it provides many opportunities for brands and creators looking to engage their audiences. Want to know how to make the most of this feature? Keep reading for our tips on posting longer videos on Instagram.
Table Of Contents
- What's the Ideal Video Length for Instagram?
- Should You Be Posting Longer Videos on Instagram
- How to Post a Longer Video on Instagram in 5 Simple Ways
- 20 Instagram Video Content Ideas
- Create Viral Shorts In Seconds With Crayo
What's the Ideal Video Length for Instagram?
Instagram is a visual platform that thrives on video content. Each format has specific length requirements based on the content's purpose and your audience's preferences. Understanding these guidelines will help you create engaging videos that maximize your reach and impact.
1. Instagram Stories: Keep It Snappy
Each Instagram Story video can be up to 15 seconds long. While that may seem brief, you can combine multiple clips to create a more extended narrative. Use Stories to engage your current followers with timely updates, behind-the-scenes content, or interactive elements like polls and questions.
2. Instagram Reels: The Potential of Short-Form Video
Instagram Reels allow for videos up to 60 seconds in length, but the sweet spot is around 15 to 30 seconds. This format is designed for quick consumption and sharing, so grab your audience's attention right away and entertainingly deliver your message. Reels are ideal for reaching new audiences, so use hashtags and trending sounds to boost your discoverability. You can also repurpose TikTok content for Instagram but remove any watermarks.
3. Instagram Live: Go Long or Go Home
Instagram Live videos can last up to four hours, offering plenty of time for in-depth discussions, demonstrations, or Q&A sessions. However, most viewers will tune in for a specific purpose, so promote your Live ahead of time and have a plan to keep your audience engaged. After the stream ends, you can share the recording with your feed or stories for those who missed it.
4. Instagram Video: Versatile Content Options
Formerly known as IGTV and Feed videos, Instagram Video now encompasses all long-form content on the platform. Regular accounts can upload videos between 15 seconds and 10 minutes, while verified or larger accounts can share videos up to 60 minutes. These videos are best for repurposing content, sharing testimonials, or enhancing brand awareness.
5. Instagram Video Ads: Paid Placement Lengths
Instagram offers several ad placements for video content, each with its length requirements. Story ads can run for 5 to 15 seconds, Reels ads for up to 30 seconds, and Feed video ads can last up to 60 minutes. While organic reach is valuable, paid ads can help you quickly boost visibility and target specific audiences.
Final Thoughts: The Right Length for Your Videos
The ideal length for Instagram videos varies depending on the format and your content goals. For maximum engagement, keep Stories to 15 seconds, Reels to 15 to 30 seconds, and long-form videos to 10 minutes or less. With these guidelines, you can create impactful video content that resonates with your audience.
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Should You Be Posting Longer Videos on Instagram
Instagram Reels: Length Matters for Engagement
Instagram Reels have become a powerful tool for creators and brands. To maximize engagement and reach, aim for a length of 30 to 60 seconds. These shorter Reels tend to hold viewers' attention, leading to higher sharing rates and interactions. While you can post Reels up to 90 seconds or longer, they may not perform as well. Reels exceeding 90 seconds are ineligible for recommendation in the Explore or Reels tabs, which can limit their discoverability.
Instagram Stories: Share Your Moments (Almost) in Real Time
Instagram Stories are perfect for sharing time-sensitive content, behind-the-scenes looks, and casual updates. Each Story can be up to 60 seconds long, but you can string together multiple Stories for longer narratives. Keep your Stories concise and focus on a single theme or idea to keep viewers engaged.
Instagram Video (Feed Videos): Long-Form Content for Deeper Engagement
Instagram Feed Videos offers a place to create longer video content. Videos can be up to 60 minutes long, giving you plenty of time to dive deep into a topic, share a tutorial, or showcase an event. Hitch viewers in the first few seconds to optimize performance and use eye-catching thumbnails and captions.
Instagram Live: Connect with Your Audience in Real Time
Instagram Live allows for authentic, unedited interactions with your audience. Live streams can last up to four hours, giving you plenty of time to chat, answer questions, or host a guest. To optimize your Live performance, promote it in advance, choose a relevant topic, and engage with viewers during the stream.
Summary: Length Guidelines Across Instagram Video Formats
Each Instagram video format has its length guidelines. For Reels, aim for 30 to 60 seconds. For Stories, each can be up to 60 seconds, and you can string them together. Feed Videos can be as long as 60 minutes, and Live streams can last up to four hours. Understanding these guidelines will help you create engaging content optimized for performance.
How to Post a Longer Video on Instagram in 5 Simple Ways
Instagram has become a go-to platform for video content, but many users still wonder how to share longer videos on the app. While Instagram originally limited video posts to one minute, users can now share videos for up to 60 minutes on the platform. Here’s how to post a long video on Instagram, plus tips for repurposing and promoting your content.
1. Upload Your Long Video as a Feed Post
The easiest way to share a long video on Instagram is to upload it as a feed post. Here’s how:
- Open Instagram and tap the + button at the bottom of your screen.
- Select Post and choose the video you want to upload.
- If your video is longer than one minute, Instagram will prompt you to trim it or upload the full version.
- Select Cover Image to choose a thumbnail that will appear in your followers’ feeds.
- Write a caption for your post, tag relevant accounts, and add hashtags.
- Tap Share, and your long video is live!
2. Split Your Video for Instagram Stories
Instagram Stories only allows videos up to 15 seconds long, but you can still share a longer video by splitting it into segments. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a video editing tool to trim your video into 15-second clips.
- Open Instagram and tap Your Story.
- Upload the first clip and add text, stickers, or GIFs for engagement.
- Continue uploading each segment to maintain a smooth narrative.
- Post your Story, and it will play smoothly for viewers.
Pro Tip
Save your Stories as a Highlight so they remain on your profile beyond the usual 24 hours.
3. Use Instagram Carousels for Longer Videos
Another way to share longer videos on Instagram is by using carousels. You can upload up to 10 slides in a single post, each with a 60-second video. This is a great way to break up your video into digestible chunks. Here’s how:
- Use a video editing tool to split your video into 10 one-minute sections.
- Open Instagram and tap the + button.
- Select Post, then tap Select Multiple to upload your clips in order.
- Choose a thumbnail for each clip.
- Add a caption and relevant hashtags.
- Tap Share, and your carousel video post is live!
Carousels are particularly useful if you want viewers to swipe through different scenes or topics within a longer video.
4. Use IGTV for Longer Videos
While Instagram allows you to upload videos up to 60 minutes directly to your feed, you can also use IGTV for longer video content. Here’s how:
- Open Instagram and tap the + button.
- Select Post and choose your video.
- If your video is longer than one minute, you can upload it to your feed or IGTV.
- Select Cover Image to choose a thumbnail for your video.
- Write a caption, tag accounts, and add hashtags.
- Tap Share, and your video is live on IGTV.
To access your video, go to your profile and tap the IGTV icon. From there, viewers can watch your entire video and browse your other IGTV content.
5. Repurpose Your Content for Instagram
Once you’ve created a long video, don’t let it sit unused on your device. Repurpose your content for Instagram and reach new audiences. Here are some ideas:
- Create teaser clips for your feed or Stories that link to your entire video.
- Turn key quotes or tips from your video into eye-catching graphics.
- Share behind-the-scenes content or bloopers to engage your audience.
- Use different captions and hashtags for each post to expand your reach.
With creativity, you can transform one piece of content into multiple Instagram posts.
20 Instagram Video Content Ideas
1. Create a Travel Video
Are you an avid traveler who loves exploring new destinations? Capture your journeys on camera for engaging travel video content. From scenic landscapes to local cuisine, countless opportunities exist to showcase your adventures.
2. Use Instagram Live
Instagram Live is a powerful tool for reaching new audiences and engaging followers in real time. Experiment with different formats, from Q&As to behind-the-scenes looks, to find what resonates with your audience.
3. Discuss Current Events
A lot is happening in the world, and your followers likely have questions and opinions on current events. Share your thoughts on breaking news, politics, or social issues to spark conversation and provide valuable insights.
4. Experiment with Stop-Motion
Stop-motion videos require patience and precision but can result in unique and eye-catching content. Try your hand at this animation technique to create fun videos that showcase your creativity and skills.
5. Share Behind-the-Scenes Content
Your followers want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to share behind-the-scenes looks at your life and work. Whether it’s your creative process or a peek into your home, this content fosters connection and authenticity.
6. Highlight Your Team
Do you have a team of people who support your work? Whether it’s friends, family, or colleagues, celebrate them with a fun video highlighting your collaboration and each person's roles in your success.
7. Explain Your Product’s Value
If you promote products on Instagram, create videos that demonstrate their value. Showcase features, benefits, and use cases to educate your audience and encourage informed purchasing decisions.
8. Create Recap Videos
Recap videos are a great way to summarize key moments from events, trips, or projects. Use them to engage your audience and provide a fun, shareable video highlighting your best work.
9. Record Meaningful FaceTime Calls
Video chatting with loved ones? Capture those moments for a unique and sentimental video showcasing your connections and the importance of family and friendship.
10. Showcase Collaborations
Partnering with other creators or brands opens up new opportunities for content. Use video to highlight your collaboration process, share insights, and engage both audiences in a fun and creative way.
11. Incorporate Music into Your Videos
Music adds emotion and impact to video, from trending songs to original compositions. Experiment with different styles and genres to create unique soundtracks that enhance your visual storytelling.
12. Create Countdown Videos
Anticipating a big event or launch? Build excitement with countdown videos that mark the days leading up to the occasion. Use creative visuals and engaging messaging to generate buzz and engage your audience.
13. Celebrate Fun Holidays with Video
There are countless silly holidays and observances throughout the year. Use these quirky celebrations as an opportunity to create lighthearted, shareable video content that entertains and engages your audience.
14. Use Time-Lapse for Compelling Visuals
Time-lapse videos showcase long processes in a short, engaging format. Use this technique for everything from art projects to nature scenes to create stunning visuals that captivate your audience.
15. Experiment with Animation Techniques
Animation adds a fun, creative element to video content. Explore different styles, from 2D to stop-motion, to create unique, eye-catching visuals that boost your storytelling and engage your audience.
16. Announce Product Launches with Video
Build excitement for new product releases with engaging video teasers that showcase features, benefits, and use cases. Use launch day videos to provide in-depth looks and encourage immediate purchasing.
17. Draw Inspiration from Other Campaigns
Feeling stuck on content ideas? Research successful campaigns from other brands or creators for inspiration. Analyze their strategies and apply learnings to your work to generate fresh ideas.
18. Leverage Seasonal Trends for Video Content
From holidays to back-to-school season, countless annual events inspire consumer behavior. Create timely video content that aligns with these occasions to engage your audience and drive conversions.
19. Encourage User-Generated Content
Engaging your audience in content creation fosters community and brand loyalty. Encourage followers to share videos featuring your products or brand and reshare their content to your channels.
20. Highlight Your Brand Values
Consumers want to support brands that align with their values. Use video to authentically showcase your mission, ethics, and charitable initiatives to connect with your audience more deeply.
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Create Viral Shorts In Seconds With Crayo
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- Write an outline/prompt,
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