What is The Ideal Reel Length for Instagram Reels?
UPDATED APRIL 2024: Captivating content in the ideal Reel length can stop a viewer’s scroll in its tracks. Learn more ↓
Got a second for a quick exercise? (No running or push-ups involved, promise.)
Think about the last time you were scrolling through your Instagram feed. Now think about how many of those posts you scrolled past were videos and how many were still images.
Instagram Reels were introduced just over 3 years ago, and they’ve changed how audiences use the platform. Knowing and implementing best practices, like the ideal reel length for Instagram Reels, can transform your social marketing strategy.
Why is Video Content Important in a Social Strategy?
Video content on social platforms, specifically Instagram, is something you can’t—and shouldn’t—shy away from. Reels have become a crucial component of any marketing strategy on Instagram.
Instagram Reels offer a dynamic way to showcase your brand in a creative, engaging way. Instagram’s algorithm has been prioritizing reel content and adding ‘Suggestive Content’ to their feed as well.
That means your Reels have the potential to reach more audiences, outside of your followers, than your static images. Reel length plays a massive role in your content’s reach.
Oh Also, Longer Reels Aren’t Always Better
We know it might be tempting to create long-form Reels to share as much information as possible.
But the truth is, longer Reels should be used intermittently.
In the fast-scrolling world of Instagram, your audience often loses interest in long-form content. On average, users view 3 seconds of a reel. Keeping your Reels concise and focused ensures that you’ve got your user’s attention from those 3 seconds onward.
Reels that require in-depth tutorials or demonstrate product features are likely to be longer than the ideal reel length. However, even in longer Reels, it's crucial to maintain engagement by keeping the content brief and interesting.
A Few Exceptions to The Rule:
Certain trends like memes, GRWM (Get ready with me), and other trends that require a specific video length.
UGC Reels–another video content type that users will typically engage in more
Reels now have a 90-second limit, but these exceptions still shouldn’t use that entire amount of time. Attention span is still a key factor in long-form videos.
So What Is The Ideal Reel Length?
Drumroll please…
The ideal Reel length for short-form videos is between 7-15 seconds.
For long-form, it’s between 15-30 seconds—still pretty short right?
Remember how the average reel watch time is 3 seconds? Not only is it best to keep your video content short sweet and to the point, but having a solid hook in the first few seconds will help get your audience to watch the rest.
Why do shorter reels perform so well?
We’re so glad you asked!
Shorter Reels, typically under one minute, ideally 15 seconds or less, are excellent for grabbing attention quickly.
THE REEL RULES
Short and sweet: Aim to capture attention within the first few seconds.
Make a plan: Outlining your content or editing it down will help keep your reel focused.
Tap into trends: Use trending memes, reel templates, and challenges to stay current and boost discoverability.
Keep it high quality: Make sure your video is high resolution, well-lit, and stable, for maximum impact and brand trustworthiness.
Always consider sound: Use trending audios, voiceovers, and closed captions for dynamic, accessible video content.
Start with a visual hook: Reel cover images should be eye-catching, brand-consistent, and relevant to your video content.
Call to action: Always include a clear CTA in your reel's text or caption to guide users on what to do next.
Consistency: Maintain a brand-consistent style and post regularly to stay at the top of feeds and keep your audience engaged.
Say it back: A great way to keep the momentum of your reel is by responding to comments-the algorithm loves it.
Captivating content in the ideal reel length of 7-15 seconds can stop a viewer’s scroll in its tracks.
It’s Time You Had a Reel Strategy That Worked
If you’re on Instagram, you’ve got to be sharing reel content.
And if you're ready for your Reels to actually reach audiences, let’s link up.
Scott Social is a boutique social media marketing agency in Phoenix, Arizona. With the most talented in-house video editor that can transform your reel content, we’re dedicated to helping small businesses succeed in the ever-evolving world of social media. Consider your reel needs covered. Contact us today to get started!
WRITTEN BY:
Victoria
Copywriter + Social Media Strategist