8 INSTAGRAM REELS MISTAKES YOU NEED TO STOP MAKING! | Instagram Reels Tips
Education
Introduction
As Instagram Reels have gained popularity over the past 15 months, it’s crucial to move past common mistakes that could hinder your growth on the platform. If you want to boost your reach and enhance your account's performance, here are eight key mistakes to avoid.
Mistake #1: Text Missteps
a. Not Using Pop-up Text
Using text in your Reels is vital to convey your message, especially for viewers who may be watching without sound. Implementing pop-up text helps viewers understand the content without relying solely on audio.
b. Misplacing Text
Many creators edit their Reels outside the Instagram app, leading to improperly placed text that gets cut off. It’s important to incorporate text directly within Instagram to utilize its alignment guidelines, ensuring your text is visible.
c. Overloading Text
Keep your text concise. Long paragraphs can confuse viewers. Aim for short, clear captions or subtitles that enhance understanding without overwhelming them.
Mistake #2: Forgetting the 4:5 Crop
Reels are shot in a 9:16 aspect ratio but displayed in a 4:5 crop on users' feeds. Failing to consider this can result in cut-off faces or text. Make sure to position your content properly while filming to avoid these issues.
Mistake #3: Lack of Topical Consistency
Sticking to a defined topic can significantly improve your content’s visibility. Choose one main topic and three to five subtopics relevant to your niche. This clarity helps Instagram categorize your account better, pushing your content to the right audience.
Mistake #4: Not Saving Your Videos
Instagram can be glitchy, leading to video loss. Make it a habit to save your Reels after recording and editing, ensuring a backup is always available.
Mistake #5: Focusing Solely on Virality
While going viral can be appealing, it shouldn't be your only focus. When creating content, prioritize your audience’s needs. Ensure your Reels are educational, inspirational, entertaining, or relatable.
Mistake #6: Poor Video Quality
To maintain video quality, ensure your videos are set to 1080p before uploading. Additionally, avoid using videos with logos that can compromise reach. Utilize resources to remove unwanted logos from your content.
Mistake #7: Overthinking Your Content
Many creators hinder themselves by overthinking their content. Reels don't have to be perfect or viral. Simply recording and posting consistently can help you grow. Save audio clips you find intriguing without stressing over the details.
Mistake #8: Missing Call to Action (CTA)
Every Reel should have a clear call to action. This encourages engagement and improves your chances of gaining followers. Examples include prompts to follow your account, comment, or share.
Now that you’re aware of these common mistakes, take action to refine your strategy on Instagram Reels and enhance your account's performance!
Keyword
Instagram Reels, text missteps, pop-up text, misplacing text, text overload, 4:5 crop, topical consistency, saving videos, virality, video quality, overthinking, call to action, CTA.
FAQ
Q1: Why should I use pop-up text in my Instagram Reels?
A1: Pop-up text helps viewers understand your content, especially if they're watching without sound.
Q2: How can I ensure my text isn’t cut off in my videos?
A2: Edit your text directly in the Instagram app to use its alignment guidelines, ensuring better visibility.
Q3: What is the recommended aspect ratio for Instagram Reels?
A3: Reels are filmed in a 9:16 aspect ratio but are displayed in a 4:5 crop on feeds, so be mindful of this to avoid cut-off content.
Q4: Should I focus on going viral with my Reels?
A4: While going viral is desirable, it’s more important to create content that is valuable and relevant to your target audience.
Q5: What should I do if my video quality drops when posting?
A5: Ensure your videos are recorded in 1080p before uploading to maintain quality.
Q6: How can I create effective calls to action for my Reels?
A6: Include prompts that encourage viewers to engage, like asking them to follow you or comment on your content.