How to make an Instagram Reel in 2026: A step-by-step guide

TL;DR

• Instagram Reels can be up to 20 minutes long, though Reels over 3 minutes won't be recommended to new audiences by the algorithm

• Create a Reel from the Reels tab, the "+" button on your home screen, or the Stories camera

• Add music from Instagram's library, use your own original audio, or create photo-based Reels with slideshows

• Use Later to plan, schedule, and analyze your Reels for consistent content output

Short-form video has become the primary way brands and creators build reach on Instagram, but the gap between knowing Reels matter and actually producing them consistently trips up even experienced social media managers. The format rewards speed, creativity, and a willingness to experiment, yet the technical steps can feel overwhelming when you're staring at Instagram's camera interface for the first time. Teams that post Reels regularly have one thing in common: a clear, repeatable workflow.

What is a Reel on Instagram?

Instagram Reels are fun, short-form videos that are well-suited to sharing entertaining, educational, and inspiring content on the app.

Similar to TikTok, Reels are displayed in a vertical video format for an endless, scrollable feed.

You can record and edit clips up to 20 minutes long that are set to trending music, and add filters or text. However, Reels over 3 minutes won't be recommended to new audiences by the algorithm, so shorter content typically performs better for discovery.

Instagram suggests Reels to users based on their interests, making them a great way to tap into new, relevant audiences.

It's also worth noting that Reels now extend beyond Instagram. Facebook renamed its Videos tab to Reels in June 2025, and the platform is shifting all videos into the Reels system. This means your Instagram Reels can reach audiences across both platforms when you enable cross-posting.

How to make an Instagram Reel (step-by-step guide)

Here's how to make Instagram Reels, in four simple steps:

Prefer following along on video? Watch our YouTube tutorial: How to Make Instagram Reels (Film & Edit - Full Beginner's Tutorial!)

Step 1: Storyboard your concept

Planning ahead makes a real difference. Before you step in front of the camera, put a plan in place.

Here are some questions to answer to get you started:

• What topic would make the most sense for your business or brand — fashion and styling? Food recipes? Wellness tips?

• How will your Reels content be cohesive with your Instagram feed posts or Stories?

• Who is your target audience, and what type of content will speak to them? It could be tutorials, behind-the-scenes, or a day in the life.

From there, spend time perusing the app and take stock of visuals, text, trends, and aesthetics that you could borrow inspiration from.Keep in mind that authentic content and storytelling resonate more with audiences and are favored by Instagram's algorithm. Share relatable stories and behind-the-scenes content to connect with your audience. Genuine storytelling fosters trust and enhances engagement.

Once you've got a solid understanding of your direction, storyboard your content by breaking down the clips you need to shoot in order to make the concept work.

That way, you'll gain a visual understanding of how your Reels will turn out and have a clear plan to work from.

Step 2: Shoot your Instagram Reel

Now it's time to shoot your Instagram Reel.

You can make and access Instagram Reels in three different ways:

1. The Reels tab

2. Your Instagram home screen

3. The Instagram Stories camera

1. How to make a Reel from the Reels tab

To create a Reel from the Reels tab, tap the Reels tab and press the camera icon on the top right of your screen:

2. How to make a Reel from the Instagram home screen

To make a Reel from the Instagram home screen, tap the "+" on the bottom of the screen and tap "Reel" from the bottom menu:

3. How to make a Reel from the Instagram Stories camera

To create a Reel using the Instagram Stories camera, swipe left from Instagram's home screen to access the Stories camera.

From there, tap "Reel" from the bottom menu:

You can record Reels in a series of clips, in a single stream, or shoot them externally and upload. You can also create Reels entirely from photos in your camera roll, which we'll cover in detail in a later section.

To add external clips from your camera roll to your Reel, select the "+" icon in the bottom left corner:

To shoot footage internally in the Reels app, hold the recording circle at the bottom of the screen:

You can add music to your footage by tapping the audio icon and searching for a song from Instagram's music library. Or, use your own original audio by tapping "Import" and uploading it:

You can also select which part of a song you want to feature:

When you share a Reel with original audio, Instagram attributes that audio to you.

So, if you have a public account, users can create Reels with your audio by selecting "Use Audio" from your Reel.

From the left sidebar, you'll also have the option to choose the speed of your video (the default is 1x) from .3x, .5x, 1x, 2x, 3x, or 4x:

For hands-free filming, take advantage of Instagram's timer and countdown effect.

The timer allows you to record any of your clips hands-free. Once you press record, you'll see a 3-2-1 countdown, before recording begins for the amount of time you selected:

You'll also have the option to align your clips. This tool comes in handy when you're looking to create seamless transitions between moments in your footage:

To access effects, tap the three-star icon above the record button. There you can browse Instagram's effects gallery:

To easily trim, reorder, or add additional clips, tap "Next" then "Edit clips."

To delete a clip, tap it and press "Discard."

Step 3: Preview and add effects, text, and audio

Once you're happy with the clips, tap "Next" and "Preview."

To bring your content to life, you can take advantage of Instagram's many effects. Because many Instagram users watch videos without sound, on-screen text and captions are essential. To enhance accessibility and engagement, use on-screen text and captions in your Reels. Instagram's closed caption sticker can automatically generate subtitles, making your content more inclusive.

If you're familiar with Instagram Stories tools, you'll recognize most of these:

• Text: Say more by adding text to your Reels.

• Draw: Use the draw tool to add some extra flair.

• Stickers: Include captions, GIFs, the time, and a plethora of fun Instagram stickers.

• AR effects: Search from Instagram's endless gallery of AR effects created by Instagram and creators around the world.

• Filters: Swipe left to access filters to add to your Reels.

• Audio: In case you missed it earlier, you can also add audio from Instagram's music library at this stage, in addition to recording a voiceover or adding sound effects.

TIP: Explore trending audio on Instagram by heading to the Reels tab — take a scroll and note any tracks that have the "trending" arrow for your next clip. Leveraging trending audio can increase the visibility of your Reels, as the algorithm favors content that uses popular sounds.

Step 4: Share your Instagram Reel

Now it's time to share your creation.

Choose a cover photo by tapping "Edit cover" and write a captivating caption that speaks to your Reel:

From here, toggle whether you'd like to share your Reel to the Instagram Feed. We recommend sharing on Feed for the best reach.

To tag Instagram accounts in your Reel, tap "Tag People" — here you'll also have the option to invite a collaborator.

If the user accepts your invite to collab, your post will be shared with their followers, and they'll be shown as a co-author on the post:

You can also add a location, tag products, add up to three topics, and toggle "Recommend on Facebook" to share your Reel to Facebook's Reels tab (formerly the Videos tab) for increased reach.

Finally, tap "Share."

And just like that, you've successfully posted your first Reel—job done!

How to make a Reel with photos and music

Not every Reel needs to be shot on video. Instagram makes it easy to create engaging photo-based Reels using images from your camera roll, which is perfect for product showcases, before-and-after reveals, or carousel-style storytelling.

Here's how to create a Reel using photos:

1. Open the Reels camera using any of the three methods described above (Reels tab, "+" button, or Stories camera)

2. Tap the gallery icon in the bottom left corner to access your camera roll

3. Select the photos you want to include — you can choose multiple images

4. Tap "Next" to add them to your Reel timeline

5. Adjust the duration each photo appears by tapping on a clip and dragging the edges to shorten or lengthen it

6. Tap the audio icon to add music from Instagram's library

7. Use the waveform to select which part of the song plays during your Reel

8. Add text, stickers, or effects to individual clips as needed

9. Preview your Reel and tap "Share" when you're satisfied

Photo-based Reels work well when paired with trending audio, as the music carries the energy while your images tell the visual story. Consider adding subtle transitions between photos and timing image changes to the beat for a more polished feel.

How to find trending audio for your Reels

Using trending audio boosts your Reel's discoverability, as Instagram's algorithm favors content that uses popular sounds. But finding those trending tracks requires a bit of intentional browsing.

Here's how to identify and save trending audio:

Browse the Reels tab: Scroll through Reels in your feed and the Explore page. When you see a song name with a small upward arrow icon next to it, that audio is currently trending.

Save audio for later: When you find a trending sound you want to use, tap the audio name at the bottom of the Reel. Then tap "Save Audio" to add it to your saved sounds library. You can access your saved audio anytime when creating a new Reel.

Check the audio page: Tapping on any audio name shows you how many Reels have been created with that sound. Higher numbers indicate popular audio, though newer trending sounds with rapid growth are often more valuable for discovery.

Use original audio strategically: When you create a Reel with your own original audio, it gets attributed to you. If your Reel performs well, other users can create Reels using your audio, which drives additional visibility back to your account.

Stay current: Trending audio changes quickly. What's popular this week may feel dated next month. Make browsing Reels a regular habit so you can spot emerging trends before they peak.

Best Reel length and format in 2026

Instagram has expanded Reel duration limits significantly, but longer isn't always better. Understanding how length affects distribution helps you make smarter content decisions.

Format best practices for 2026:

• Vertical video is non-negotiable: Reels are designed for 9:16 aspect ratio. Horizontal or square content gets cropped awkwardly and signals to viewers that the content wasn't made for the format.

• Front-load your value: The first 1-3 seconds determine whether someone keeps watching or scrolls past. Open with movement, a question, or a visual hook.

• Pace matters more than length: A fast-paced 60-second Reel often outperforms a slow 30-second one. Cut dead air, use jump cuts, and keep the energy moving.

• Design for sound-off viewing: Many users scroll with sound muted. On-screen text and captions ensure your message lands regardless of audio settings.

The key takeaway: Reels can technically be up to 20 minutes long, but Reels over 3 minutes won't be recommended to new audiences. For most creators and brands focused on growth, staying under 90 seconds maximizes both completion rates and algorithmic reach.

How to create Instagram Reels that stand out

Okay, so now that you know how to make a Reel on Instagram, how do you stand out from the crowd? It's all in the execution!

Here are three top tips for creating best-in-class Reels:

1. Hook your audience

2. Provide value

3. Hop on timely trends

Hook your audience in the first few seconds

According to a Microsoft study, brands and businesses have a mere eight seconds to grab a user's attention.

That's not much time to make an impression.

To keep users sticking around for longer, it's important to have an opening hook: what will immediately grab their attention?

This can be an open-ended question, a catchy visual, or an exciting announcement.

Play around and see how your audience responds, just remember, sometimes the simplest hooks derive the best results.

See how Chamberlain Coffee teased an upcoming product launch below:

The message is simple and clear, delivered right off the top with a fun, ASMR-esque animation.

Provide real value to your viewers

Instagram Reels catapult a brand's reach and impressions. But the ones that stand out are the videos that provide real value.

The secret? Knowing who you're speaking to and what their expectations are.

Whether they're looking for quick tips, an easy recipe, or a relatable joke, providing value can take many shapes and forms.

For example, see how the brand KraveBeauty shares a quick tutorial on how to tackle stressed skin using their products:

Coupled with a clear caption to support the clip, the post garnered over 37K views and inspired an active comments section, proving that value drives engagement on Instagram Reels.

Hop on timely trends

Whether it's dances, audio, or challenges, following trends is a major part of creating viral Instagram Reels.

This means being immersed in Reels content is key.

That way, you can identify new Reels trends and incorporate them into your overall strategy and niche.

How to schedule Instagram Reels with Later

Creating great Reels is only half the equation. Posting them consistently, at the right times, is what builds momentum.

Later is a social media management platform that lets you plan, preview, and auto-publish Reels so you can batch your content creation and maintain a steady posting cadence without being glued to your phone.

Here's what scheduling Reels with Later looks like:

• Plan visually: Drag and drop your Reels into Later's visual calendar to see how your content mix looks across the week or month

• Preview before posting: See exactly how your Reel will appear, including cover image and caption, before it goes live

• Auto-publish at optimal times: Set your Reels to post automatically when your audience is most active

• Track performance: Use Later's analytics to see which Reels drive the most engagement and refine your strategy over time

Ready to start creating Reels?

Whether you're a brand, social media manager, or creator, adding Instagram Reels to your marketing strategy is a surefire way to increase your reach, build trust, and connect with your audience.

Equipped with a plan, creativity, and an effect or two, you'll reap the rewards of Instagram Reels in no time.

Frequently asked questions

How do I make a Reel with photos and music?

To make a Reel with photos and music, tap the gallery icon when creating a Reel, select your photos, then tap the audio icon to add a song from Instagram's music library. You can adjust how long each photo appears and time the transitions to match the beat of your chosen track.

What is the best app to make Reels?

Instagram's native Reel creator is the best app for making Reels since it gives you direct access to trending audio, effects, and seamless publishing. Third-party editing apps like CapCut can add polish, but you'll still need to upload through Instagram to access platform-specific features.

How do I create Reels on iPhone?

To create Reels on iPhone, open the Instagram app, tap the "+" button at the bottom of your screen, and select "Reel" from the menu. From there, you can record clips, upload from your camera roll, add music, and apply effects before sharing.

How do you make a good video Reel?

A good video Reel hooks viewers in the first few seconds, provides clear value, and uses trending audio or effects to boost discoverability. Focus on strong pacing, on-screen text for sound-off viewers, and a clear message that resonates with your target audience.

How long can Instagram Reels be?

Instagram Reels can be up to 20 minutes long, though Reels over 3 minutes won't be recommended to new audiences by the algorithm. For maximum reach and engagement, most creators find the sweet spot is between 30 and 90 seconds.

Can I schedule Instagram Reels in advance?

Yes, you can schedule Instagram Reels in advance using Later, which lets you plan, preview, and auto-publish Reels at your best times. This makes it easier to maintain a consistent posting schedule without manually publishing each Reel.

How do I find trending audio for Reels?

To find trending audio, scroll through the Reels tab and look for songs with a small arrow icon, which indicates the audio is currently trending. Tap the audio name to save it to your library for use in future Reels.

Do Instagram Reels show up on Facebook?

Yes, Instagram Reels can be shared to Facebook, where they appear in the Reels tab (formerly the Videos tab, renamed in June 2025). Toggle "Recommend on Facebook" when publishing your Reel to extend your reach across both platforms.

How do I add captions to my Instagram Reel?

To add captions, tap the sticker icon after recording your Reel and select the "Captions" sticker, which auto-generates subtitles from your audio. You can edit the text, change the font style, and reposition the captions on screen.

Why aren't my Reels getting views?

Your Reels may not be getting views because they lack a strong opening hook, don't use trending audio, or don't optimize for the vertical format. Review your first few seconds, experiment with popular sounds, and ensure your content delivers clear value to your target audience.