With its enormous audience of over one billion monthly active users, Instagram has become one of the most popular social media platforms. And with the rise of mobile filmmaking, Instagram has become a great place to showcase your video content. In this article, we’ll share some of the best practices for creating compelling videos on Instagram.
Start with a good story
Before picking up your phone and shooting your video, spend some time thinking about what story you want to tell. Plan out your shots, and think about the narrative arc of your video. Instagram videos are limited to 60 seconds, so make sure your story is concise and easy to follow.
Use natural light
One of the most important aspects of video production is lighting. Avoid using the built-in flash on your phone, as it can create harsh shadows and unnatural-looking footage. Instead, use natural light whenever possible. Shoot outside during the daytime or near a window with lots of natural light.
Shoot in landscape mode
When filming on your phone, it can be tempting to hold it vertically. However, Instagram videos are best viewed in landscape mode, so make sure to shoot your video with your phone turned horizontally. This will ensure that your video takes up more screen real estate and looks more professional.
Use a tripod or stabilizer
Shaky footage can quickly turn viewers off, so it's important to keep your phone steady while filming. Consider investing in a tripod or stabilizer to keep your shots smooth and professional-looking. If you can't afford a stabilizer, try propping your phone up against a stable surface or using a rubber band to attach your phone to a stationary object.
Add subtitles
Many people watch videos on Instagram with the sound turned off, so make sure to add subtitles to your video. This will make your video accessible to a wider audience and ensure that viewers can follow along even if they can't hear the audio.
End with a call-to-action
Finally, make sure to end your video with a call-to-action. This can be as simple as asking viewers to like, comment, or share your video, or as complex as inviting them to visit your website or sign up for your newsletter. Whatever your call-to-action, make sure it's clear, concise, and adds value to your viewers.
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