How Can I Post a Video on Instagram?

The short answer is that to post a video on Instagram effectively, you should create a vertical video in a 9:16 aspect ratio, use a video editing tool like Filmora, add captions to engage viewers via an app like Captions, and upload your video as a reel rather than a regular post to maximize organic reach.

Full Explanation

Posting a video on Instagram involves more than just uploading any clip. First, your video should be formatted vertically with a 9:16 aspect ratio. This format fills the entire phone screen and is ideal for Instagram’s mobile users. Using a video editing tool such as Filmora helps you create and tailor the video to this format, ensuring that it looks professional and polished.

Next, selecting a snippet of your video that is up to 90 seconds long is important because this length suits Instagram’s reel format. Adding captions to your video enhances viewer engagement, especially when users watch without sound. Apps like Captions generate on-screen text captions that capture attention and communicate your message clearly.

Finally, it is essential to post the video as a reel instead of a regular Instagram post. Reels are designed to receive more organic exposure, reaching a broader audience beyond just your followers. This approach increases the chances of your video being discovered, viewed, and engaged with by more users.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

Create a vertical video with a 9:16 aspect ratio using a video editing tool like Filmora.
Select a video snippet of up to 90 seconds that best represents your content.
Use the Captions app to add on-screen captions to your video to attract and retain viewer attention.
Upload and post your video as an Instagram reel, not as a standard post.

Real Examples

Imagine you recorded a tutorial or a quick update and now want to share it. Instead of posting the entire video horizontally, you edit it in Filmora to fit the vertical 9:16 format. You then pick the most engaging 90-second segment and add captions using Captions. By uploading this as a reel, the video is more likely to appear on Instagram’s Explore page and reach users who don’t follow you yet.

Common Mistakes

Uploading horizontal videos without adjusting them to the vertical 9:16 ratio, which may cause poor display and loss of viewers.
Posting videos longer than 90 seconds, which can be incompatible with the reel format or less engaging.
Ignoring captions, missing an opportunity to engage viewers who watch videos without sound.
Posting videos as regular posts instead of reels, resulting in lower organic reach and exposure.

FAQs

Why should I use a 9:16 format for my video?: The 9:16 vertical format takes full advantage of mobile screens and is the preferred style for Instagram reels, which increases viewer engagement.
What is the maximum video length for an Instagram reel?: You can use up to 90 seconds of video to ensure it fits well within Instagram’s reel format and retains viewer interest.
How do captions help my video?: Captions allow users who watch with the sound off to understand your content, helping to capture and maintain their attention.
Can I post videos as regular Instagram posts instead of reels?: While possible, posting as a reel is better because reels receive more organic exposure and engagement on the platform.

Key Takeaways

Always format your videos vertically at 9:16 for Instagram.
Keep your video clips to 90 seconds or less for reels.
Use a caption app for on-screen text to boost engagement.
Post videos as reels instead of regular posts for better organic reach.