A New Way to Have Fun with Video: Instagram Reels

Instagram launched Reels last month, and based on the tremendous amount of content we’re seeing, people have really taken to this new way to create and discover videos. After pouring through hours of videos, we have compiled a list of some fun, creative Reels videos (well, actually, many were recommended by Mods from around the world). But before we get to the list, let’s back up and offer an introduction to those of you who may be unfamiliar with Reels.

What Are Reels?

Reels are short, entertaining videos on Instagram, similar in nature to, and competing with, TikTok. The new feature allows you to record and edit 15-second multi-clip videos with audio, effects, and creative tools. These short-form videos (in full 9:16 portrait mode) have become a fun trend shaping our culture and reflective of how we digest content. It’s quick, easy-to-watch content, and creative.

The videos can be shared with your followers in the Instagram Feed. If you have a public account, Reels can be available to the wider Instagram community through Explore. It’s a great way to reach new audiences on a global stage.

Why We Love Reels

Reels gives people new ways to express themselves and discover more of what they love on Instagram, and allows people to focus on creating. Reels is still very new, and the analytics have not been fleshed out to reflect the amazing engagement. That said, Reels does count toward your account’s overall reach for the week as long as it was uploaded to your feed.

Creativity On Display

We’re breaking our selections into a few categories. These may not necessarily be the most engaged with videos on the platform; instead, we’re presenting examples of what folks (and brands) are doing with the Reels functionality.

Learn Something New
Recipes, tips, tricks, hacks, design, DIY projects
Simple and Easy Guacamole Recipe by @loveandlemons
Popcorn Hack in a Brown Paper Bag by @feelgoodfoodie
Homemade Iced Coffee by @tastemade
Pasta with Mushrooms by @the_pastaqueen
Low-Maintenance Houseplants for Beginners by @glamourmag
Paper Mache Magnets by @blossom
Headboard Tutorial by @plankandpillow
Picture Frame Moulding by @brookewaitehome
Home Video Set Up by @promisetangeman
Garden to Table by @kindredhomestead
Tackle Your Junk Drawer by @drivenbydecor

Find Inspiration
Creativity, challenges, art, design, travel, hobbies
Invisible Selfie Stick Challenge by @karenxcheng
Dribble Beat Challenge by @crissa_ace
Puddle Reflection by @jacob
Lila, the Ocean Plastics Retriever by @4ocean
Skating in Sweden by @plantatreeco
Skydive by @jackmccoll
NYC Sunset by @tomjauncey

Move
Dance, work out
Good Vibe Roller Tribe by @sarah_haywood
Moves Like Jagger by @bossbabybrody
Dancing Through the Decades by @melissabecraft
Level Up by @asenseofhuber

Pull On the Heartstrings
People, animals, relationships, family
Best Friends by @wat.ki
40-Year Anniversary by @nikimariephoto

Smile and Laugh
Humor, BTS, bloopers, boredom, animals/pets
Agility Dog Levels Up by @ralphtheminicockapoo
This One Is For All the Parents Out There by @chrissyjpowers
Wi-Fi by @pablo.rochat
Kitchen Music by @gusgusinthecity
Livin’ by @animalsdoingthings
Gorgeous by @popculture

Share some of your favorite Reels with us @ModSquad. Or better yet, make some of your own! Share those with us too, please. As always, we’re in awe of the creativity of people in communities around the world. Happy Reeling! (Is that a verb yet?)