4 Instagram Reels Mistakes You’re Making

Now that we know Instagram wants us to be making more video content, creating reels is more important than ever. But could you be making these little mistakes and negatively impacting your reel reach? Have a read below and I’ll help you solve them!

1. Freezing when making transitions

   You know when someone flips their hair, or a towel over their outfit and magically it changes? Yes, this is a transition in reel talk. I’m sure you’ve seen some of them flow effortlessly and others not so much. The main reason for this is the person is freezing/stopping where they want their transition to happen. And if you can’t cut the video perfectly (I don’t know who has small enough fingers for that) the magic is lost.

   Solution: record both parts of the transition the exact same no matter which one is first or second. This way no matter when you cut the video it will flow together seamlessly.

2. Too much text

   Too much text on the screen is distracting and can be hard to read. You only have so much space.

   Solution: Use short point-form sentences and make sure to time them so they don’t stay on the screen the whole time.

3. Watermarks from other apps

   Are you copying content from TikTok or another app? That’s totally okay in my books but the big-ups at Instagram don’t like it. They can tell when there’s a watermark like the TikTok symbol and won’t promote your content.

   Solution: Record and or save the videos outside of TikTok. 

4. Text that can’t be seen in square format

   This seems like a simple one but it’s one I see A LOT! People will be viewing your reel in the feed and if they can’t read the text they’ll keep on scrolling.

   Solution: When you are adding text to your reel make sure it stays within the center.

And as a BONUS, make sure you are having fun. My most viral reel to date was one where I was dancing in the kitchen with my sister and my cousin. Nothing to do with digital marketing.

Having a good mix of entertaining and valuable educational content is important. It will help you attract a wider audience.

Happy reel making friends.

-e

Want to learn more about reels? Then you need to check out the
Digital Wellness Club