How Long Can an Instagram Reel Be? Find Out the Limits and Best Practices!

What is Instagram Reel?

Instagram Reel is a versatile tool for sharing short-form video content. It allows you to create videos that combine multiple clips, audio, and various effects. Reels are designed to entertain, educate, and engage viewers in a way that stationary posts or longer videos might not. They're prominently featured in the Explore tab, making them an excellent way to reach a broader audience.

How Long Can an Instagram Reel Be?

When Instagram first launched Reels, the maximum length was 15 seconds. However, as the point gained fashionability, Instagram extended the duration to 30 seconds, then to 60 seconds, and now, users can produce Reels that are up to 90 seconds long. This inflexibility allows for further creative freedom, enabling users to share more detailed stories and engage their audience longer.

Then, let's explore how long an Instagram Reel can be with music, Ads, and Captions.

How Long Can an Instagram Reel Be with Music?

But how long can an Instagram Reel contain music? When you add music from Instagram's enormous library, your Reel can still be as long as 90 seconds. However, certain tracks may have restrictions owing to licensing agreements, thus it is critical to check the available duration for each track.

How can you add music to your reels?

• Choose trending tracks: Popular songs may boost your Reel's chances of being included on the Explore page.
• Sync your edits: Make sure your video cuts and transitions fit the beat of the music for a more interesting viewing experience.
• Use Original Audio: If you're a musician or want to add a personal touch, record your own audio.

How Long Can an Instagram Reel Be for Ads?

Instagram Reels Ads are full-screen vertical videos that seem similar to ads in Stories. But how lengthy can an Instagram Reel be for advertisements? Ads, like ordinary Reels, can be as long as 90 seconds. This time frame allows us plenty of opportunity to deliver an engaging message, highlight a product, or engage viewers with a call to action.

Best Practices for Instagram Reels Ads:

• Capture Attention Quickly: The initial few seconds are critical. Create eye-catching images and intriguing messaging from the outset.
• Keep It Concise: Despite having up to 90 seconds, shorter ads (about 15-30 seconds) frequently perform better owing to the nature of short-form content.
• Include a clear CTA. Provide viewers with instructions on what to do next, such as visiting your website or following your account.

How Long Can an Instagram Reel Be with Captions?

Captions are essential for making your Reels accessible and engaging, especially for viewers who watch videos without sound. So, how long can an Instagram Reel be with captions? Just like other Reels, those with captions can be up to 90 seconds long.

Enhancing Reels with Captions:

• Instagram provides auto-generated captions, which saves time and ensures accuracy.
• Custom Captions: For greater control, you may add captions to underline important points or add humor.
• Use clear, large fonts that stand out against your video's background.

How to Increase Instagram Reels Time Limit

The current maximum length of an Instagram Reel is 90 seconds. This duration finds a compromise between giving enough time to convey a tale while keeping the short-form content's rapid, engaging style. Can I prolong the time of my existing reel? No, you cannot prolong the time of an already published Reel, and you can only make an Instagram Reel of up to three minutes.

If you're looking to increase the time limit of your Instagram Reels, the latest verion of Instagram offers the longest reel time, 3 minutes. Here’s how you can take advantage of this and make longer Reels:

1. Update Your Instagram App: First of all, ensure you have the latest version of the Instagram app.

2. Access the Reels Creation Tool:

• Open the Instagram app and tap the plus sign (+) at the bottom center of your screen or swipe right from your home feed.
• Select Reels: Scroll through the options at the bottom and select the Reels option.
• Set the Duration: Look for the timer icon on the left side of the screen. Tap it, and you'll see options for different Reel durations.

How to Post Long Videos on Instagram

Instagram offers several ways to share long videos, including Feed posts and IGTV, which is now part of the Instagram Video section. The method you choose will depend on the length and type of content you wish to share. Here’s how to post long videos on Instagram using these options:

1. Using Instagram Feed Posts

For videos longer than 60 seconds but under 15 minutes (or 60 minutes for verified accounts), you can post them to your Instagram Feed. These videos now fall under Instagram Video, which combines IGTV and feed videos.

Steps to Post Long Videos on Instagram Feed:

• Open Instagram and tap the plus sign (+).
• Select Post from the options.
• Choose a Video: Select the video you want to upload from your gallery.
• Trim and Edit: Instagram allows you to trim the video if it's too long. You can also add filters and adjust the thumbnail.
• Add a Title and Description: Enter a captivating title and a detailed description to engage viewers.
• Post to Your Feed: Add hashtags, tag people, and choose whether to share a preview on your profile.

2. Using Instagram Live

Instagram Live is perfect for broadcasting long videos in real-time. Each live session can last up to 4 hours.

Steps to Go Live on Instagram:

• Open Instagram and swipe right to access the Stories camera.
• Select Live from the options at the bottom.
• Start Your Live Video: Tap the live button to start broadcasting.
• Interact with Viewers: Engage with your audience through comments and questions during the live session.
• Save Your Live Video: After ending your live session, you can choose to save the video to your profile for later viewing.

When creating longer Reels, focus on maintaining viewer engagement throughout the entire video. Use a compelling hook, maintain a clear narrative, and include interactive elements like questions or prompts to keep your audience interested. Ensure the content is valuable and aligns with your overall strategy.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're wondering how long an Instagram Reel can be, how to include music, create advertisements, or add captions, these tips will help you optimize your Reels for maximum impact. By following best practices and staying up to date on Instagram's latest capabilities, you can use Reels to improve your social media profile and engage with your audience in meaningful ways.