Instagram is Moving to Video: How to Create Stunning Instagram Video Content in 6 Super Simple Steps
When you think of ‘Instagram’ what comes to mind?
Whether you’re thinking about staying up-to-date with your friends, following influencers you admire or searching for the cutest Insta-puppies on the platform, there’s one feature that connects your answer – pictures.
Instagram and pictures go together like Fridays and after-work drinks, at least…they used to.
Instagram has officially announced they’ll be leaving behind their focus on pictures and pivoting to video.
A platform that was built on image-sharing is shifting towards video content and I’m going to help you understand what these changes mean, and how they’ll affect you.
Let’s start with the basics.
WHAT IS INSTAGRAM’S OFFICIAL POSITION?
Alright, it’s easy to speculate and make changes to your content strategy based on what you *think* Instagram is doing, or what mood their algorithm is in (let’s be honest, that algorithm can be pretty temperamental).
Thankfully, there’s no need to gaze into the crystal ball this time because the Head of Instagram, Adam Mousseri, recently released a video sharing his company’s official position going forward. He had this to say…
“Video is driving an immense amount of growth online for all the major platforms right now, and I think it’s one we need to lean into more. We’re no longer a photo-sharing app.”
Let that sink in for a second.
“NO LONGER A PHOTO-SHARING APP”
He went on to say…
“Our research showed people want to be entertained. So we’re leaning into that trend – into entertainment and into video. Because let’s be honest, there is some really serious competition right now. Tik Tok is huge, YouTube is even bigger…and we’re going to be experimenting with how we embrace video more broadly.”
Instagram has been around since 2010, so we’re past the decade mark and this is a monumental shift that all users will need to adjust to.
But don’t stress if moving from image to video feels overwhelming, because I’ve rounded up my top 6 tips to create stunning content on Instagram and help you make the transition as smooth as possible.
HOW TO CREATE INSTAGRAM VIDEO CONTENT IN 6 SIMPLE STEPS
While outlining IG’s new approach, Head of Instagram, Adam Mousseri, said that his team’s research showed the #1 reason people use Instagram, is to be entertained.
And, that word is going to be key!
The biggest change for many of us will be shifting the way we create content from static images to fluid videos that entertain and engage our followers.
Video content can be more challenging to create, but I’ve already seen some basic reels go viral without any fancy-pants video production involved (which means you can enjoy the same results).
Getting started is the hardest part, so here’s a couple of tips on how I first started creating video content.
STEP ONE: START SMALL
Don’t overwhelm yourself with super complicated reels or content ideas. Start off small and then build your way up as you get confident creating videos.
This could mean a short talking-head video that you feel confident in making or a compilation of videos that turn small ideas into a larger narrative. Remember, you don’t have to become an expert right away, so start small and build your confidence as you go.
STEP TWO: GET INSPIRED
Stuck for inspiration? Browse around other people’s reels and pick a sound or theme that you like, then try to recreate. Don’t try to replicate another user’s content, but try to put your own spin on the aesthetic that inspires you.
STEP THREE: START WITH A CONCEPT
Before you get started, it’s always good to have a concept in your mind. I tend to write down in my notes each of the scenes that I’m looking to create before I start recording. When you’re working to a plan, framework or shot list you’ll a). Feel more confident and b). Create videos faster and more efficiently.
STEP FOUR: KEEP YOUR REELS SHORT
Length is not always strength.
Even though reels can be up to 1 minute long, you risk losing viewers (and declining engagement) unless they’re incredibly engaging. That doesn’t mean you can’t work your way up to the full reel length, but start with something shorter.
Aim to pack as much punch into your video as you possibly can by front-loading value and blowing people away with your creativity, talent, or personality within the first few seconds.
STEP FIVE: FIND YOUR “WHY”
Instagram is looking for videos that entertain, but it’s important you unpack what that means to your audience. Think about the purpose of your reel and what you’re trying to communicate to your followers. Are you trying to be funny? Informative? Educational? Inspiring?
When you know your “why”, you can create videos with a purpose, and that’s what your audience will resonate with.
STEP SIX: HAVE FUN
Finally, have fun and be creative!
Remember, video is a great way to engage your audience and so your personality should really shine through. I like to run my videos through the ‘DIHF’ test – or, ‘Did I Have Fun’ test.
If I’ve enjoyed making a video, and my excitement and passion are jumping from the screen, there’s a great chance my audience will enjoy them too.
So while Instagram’s pivot towards a video-sharing platform may be confronting, treat this change as an opportunity to expand your business or brand, and have a little fun along the way.
WHAT TO DO NEXT…
First things first – take a deep breath.
Instagram may be leaning into trends seen on YouTube and TikTok but that doesn’t mean images will become obsolete.
You can (and should) continue to upload images that reflect your business or brand. But be aware of the opportunities that video content offers.
Learning how to create Instagram video content won’t happen overnight. But, if you’re like me then you’ve been spending plenty of time on Zoom and FaceTime during lockdowns. That means you’ve already got experience jumping in front of a camera. It’s true that creativity and concepts are important so don’t be afraid to take inspiration from other IG users (or even TikTok and YouTube accounts that inspire you), but the most important quality is authenticity.
Stay true to your brand, start small, and work your way up as you boost your skills and confidence. That’s how you build an online community and it’s the secret sauce to making this big Instagram change work for you.