Instagram recently introduced a game-changing new feature: Instagram Reels Templates.
With Reels Templates, you can quickly copy clip timings of an existing Reel — saving you tons of time and effort.
We're breaking down two ways to access the feature, and what we think it means for creating content on the app.
What Are Instagram Reels Templates?
Instagram Reels Templates do exactly what they say on the tin: they provide time-stamped templates to guide your content creation.
Instagram REELS announced a new feature! “Use as template” allows user to replace the clips with your own and it will match the time stamps of the template reel. Let me know what you think of this feature. Does this make you want to create more reels? pic.twitter.com/rLMJAX89jG
— Jo Millie (@JosephineMedia) March 26, 2022
Previously, you'd have to guess clip lengths required to sync with a specific audio track, and manually adjust your clips.
Now, you can drop your own photos and/or videos into a template, and you're good to go.
This makes the Reels content creation process quicker, easier, and keeps you within the app — rather than editing your Reels elsewhere.
In other words: Instagram would prefer users create original Reels content instead of repurposing videos from other apps like TikTok or InShot.
If you don't have access to the feature yet, keep an eye out and hang tight!
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How to Use Instagram Reels Templates
The good news? Instagram Reels Templates are super easy to use.
Here are two ways to access the feature:
Use Templates Within the Video Editor
Repurpose an Existing Reel
#1: Use Templates Within the Video Editor
Head to the Reels tab, tap the camera icon, and slide to the "Templates" tab in the video editor.
Here you'll see multiple Reels ideas that you can use to create your own.
When you find a template you like, tap "Use Template." You'll be prompted to add photos or videos from your camera roll:
This "Templates" tab will likely inspire more creators to start creating Reels directly within the app — which is a major win for Instagram.
NOTE: The "Templates" tab in the Reels editor is still rolling out to users.
#2: Repurpose an Existing Reel
For Reels that have templates available, a "Use template" sticker icon will appear above the name of the creator:
Alternatively, tap the three-dot menu icon and select "Use as template":
Once selected, you'll see the time stamps for each clip in a Reel. Tap "Add media" to replace the clips with your own from your camera roll.
And that's it!
NOTE: Reels Templates are only available for Reels with multiple clips that have been edited together within Instagram. If a video has been fully edited outside of the app, Instagram cannot identify the different time stamps for each clip.
Have you tried the Instagram Reels Templates feature yet? Let us know over on Later's Instagram account.
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Editor's Note: A special thanks to @nichellerobbie for originally sharing this feature (and her images) with the Later team as soon as it was released. 🌟
