How to film Instagram reels? It can be done easily when taking the right approach. Fortunately, even beginners on a budget can achieve good reels.
My content creation journey includes 8 years of blogging. Even though I’ve been on Instagram for years, I decided to start vlogging seriously more recently. I feel that I should have started earlier, though!
As an ambivert leaning more towards introversion, it took me time to create reels consistently. I now enjoy vlogging more than blogging. However, my blog remains my main platform, which I value immensely.
How to film Instagram reels best
There’s no best way to film Instagram reels, and that’s an advantage! How? Well, it opens up doors to your creativity, personality, and originality.
There are best practices that you can follow. These, however, do change constantly. I find that following Instagram’s Creators account helps in keeping up with their latest features.
Coming back to shooting reels, you can either choose a highly polished approach or a simpler one. On Instagram, it’s easier to take a less polished approach than on YouTube. Take a look at both platforms and compare their top content.
I enjoy short-form videos, although they have both gains and drawbacks. Long form, on the other hand, also has its pros and cons that you should consider beforehand. Keep in mind your target audience and also what you can sustain for the long term.
Shoot and edit easily
How to film and edit Instagram Reels? It sounds like a lot of work. However, enjoy the journey, working smarter, through creator work processes.
Camera
The best camera to film Instagram reels ranges from your phone to professional cameras. As my article focuses on the easy approach, I suggest using any existing phone.
Phone cameras aren’t the same when compared to professional ones. However, they provide good results conveniently. They’re also more affordable, and you automatically improve their quality each time you upgrade yourself to a new phone.
Editing
I use Instagram’s Edits app for free. It’s their own, so it works seamlessly with the platform. It also reflects the platform features and trends.
Reels can look good, even great, with just a phone camera. For basic editing features, use a free app. As your account grows, you can choose to upgrade if you prefer to.
Without advanced equipment
Beginners often start with basic equipment or without much. Even the more experienced ones can choose to use DIY or tricks instead. I started with some handy items I already had at home.
Lighting
If you shoot indoors, a ring light is best. Alternatively, use artificial light. You can also move closer to the window whenever possible.
I mostly shoot outdoors as it suits my style. This supports using natural sunlight. However, if the weather turns bad, it’s a drawback.
Microphone
I have a microphone, but don’t always use it. In case you don’t yet have one, prefer a quiet corner of the house. You can also wait for a quieter time of the day.
There are also easy ways to work on minimizing noise. Record in a room with thick curtains. Use a duvet to absorb noise.
Equipment stand
You need to securely place your phone before filming. Tripod stands, selfie sticks, or ring light holders are all the best options. If not available, get creative with what you have.
On a recent beach vacation, for example, I used a rock to place my device. I carefully inspected it to see if it could hold it properly beforehand. I also kept it away from seawater splashes.
It’s an ongoing process
Learning how to shoot reels isn’t a one-off or stagnant experience. It involves testing and tweaking. There are changes all the time, be it new platforms, camera features, or trends.
Vlogging is fun, and you get to be creative. Showing your face to your audience is better for building a good connection and eventually trust. However, you can go faceless if you prefer.
Videos are often more popular than blog articles, although both are great in their own ways. If you want to reach a wider audience, use both types. Find out the best content creator courses in my other article.
Conclusion
My article highlighted how to film Instagram reels easily. Post your first reel, if you haven’t done so already. If you want ongoing handy vlogging tips, visit my Instagram, where I share lots more.
Featured photo:
Photo by Kristina Paukshtite on Pexels.com
Tips from Sharvi 