Make Your Instagram videos Stand Out with These 5 Must-Use Formats

The year has witnessed an explosion in the use of videos on Instagram. More than ever, brands use various video formats to boost their visibility. It's become clear: if you want to get noticed, you must get moving.

Discovering Instagram Video Formats

Instagram has become a hotbed for creative video content. Brands have a wealth of options. The platform has something for everyone, from fleeting Instagram Stories to more permanent video posts. 

It's a place where businesses can share their stories, launch new products, or connect with their customers. And they can do it all in a variety of formats.

This article will provide a roadmap to the world of Instagram video formats. We'll look at five key formats: Instagram Stories, Instagram Reels, Instagram Live, IGTV (Instagram TV), and Instagram Video Posts.

We'll also provide tips for each format, and share case studies of brands that are getting it right. So whether you're an Instagram newbie or a seasoned veteran, you will learn something new. 

We'll delve deep into each format. We'll start with Instagram Stories and explore how businesses use them to create a buzz. Then we'll move on to Instagram Reels, the platform's answer to TikTok. Next, we'll examine Instagram Live, an incredibly popular real-time video streaming tool. After that, we'll look at IGTV, the platform's long-form video feature. Finally, we'll look at Instagram Video Post, a staple for any business's social media strategy. 

Instagram Stories

Instagram Stories are fun, fleeting videos that disappear after 24 hours. They appear at the top of the Instagram app and provide an engaging way to share content. Stories can be videos, photos, or text, including interactive elements like polls or questions.

Using Instagram Stories for Business

Sharing Behind-the-Scenes Content

Many businesses use Stories to offer a peek behind the curtain. They share footage from their office, factory, or even their home workspace. It's a great way to humanize your brand and make customers feel more connected.



Promoting Products and Services

Stories are also ideal for quick product demos or service highlights. Since they disappear after a day, they create a sense of urgency. They're perfect for limited-time offers or flash sales. 



Engaging with the Audience 

Interactive features make Stories a goldmine for engagement. You can ask your audience questions, run a poll, or encourage them to send you a direct message. It's a fantastic way to spark conversations and learn more about your customers.



Tips for Creating Compelling Stories 

Creating engaging Stories is both an art and a science. Keep them short and sweet. Use text overlays and stickers to add context or humor. Don't forget to include a clear call to action - whether it's "Swipe up to shop" or "DM us your thoughts". 

Success Stories

Many brands are using Instagram Stories to great effect. For instance, fashion brand Zara regularly uses Stories for flash sales and sneak peeks at new collections. It helps them keep their audience hooked and coming back for more.

In conclusion, Instagram Stories are a versatile tool that can help businesses connect with their audience uniquely and personally. From behind-the-scenes content to product promotions, the possibilities are endless. 

Instagram Reels

Instagram Reels are the platform's answer to the short, catchy video trend. They allow users to create and share 15 to 30-second video clips set to music. Think of it as Instagram's own spin on TikTok.

Instagram Reels for Businesses 

Showcasing Products in Action

Reels are fantastic for showcasing products. Create short, engaging videos that highlight your products in action. Show customers how your product works, what it can do, or why it's better than the rest.



Tutorial or How-to Videos 

Reels are perfect for quick how-to videos or tutorials. Whether it's a beauty brand showing how to use a new product, or a fitness brand demonstrating a quick workout, Reels can be educational and fun.



Engaging with Trendy Content 

One of the biggest draws of Reels is their potential for viral content. Brands can jump on the latest trends or challenges, creating fun, shareable, and engaging content. 



Tips for Creating Engaging Reels

To create a successful Reel, focus on making it entertaining and eye-catching. Use music to set the mood and ensure your video is visually appealing. Experiment with filters and effects to make your Reel stand out. 

Remember, the first few seconds are crucial. That's when viewers decide whether to keep watching or swipe to the next Reel. So make sure to hook your viewers right from the start.

Success Stories with Reels

Brands across the globe are using Reels to engage their audience. Fast-food chain Chipotle is one example. They've mastered the art of creating fun, quirky Reels that resonate with their target audience. From food challenges to behind-the-scenes clips, their Reels are a hit.

Overall, Instagram Reels offer a new, exciting way for businesses to connect with their audience. They're fun, they're quick, and they're highly shareable. So, if you're not using them yet, it's time to start.

Instagram Live

Instagram Live is a feature that lets users stream video in real time. Live videos appear in the Stories section but also get priority placement to catch viewers' attention. Once a live stream ends, it can be saved to IGTV for future viewing.

Leveraging Instagram Live for Business

Hosting Q&A Sessions

Instagram Live is perfect for interactive Q&A sessions. These live sessions allow businesses to engage directly with their audience, answer their queries, and foster a sense of community.



Conducting Live Interviews

Live streams can be used to host interviews or panel discussions. Whether it's a chat with an industry expert, a team member, or a satisfied customer, these conversations provide value to viewers and can boost your brand image.



Demonstrating Products/ Services in Real Time

Live demonstrations of products or services provide an authentic experience to your followers. These real-time demonstrations can help potential customers better understand your offerings and build trust.



Best Practices for Instagram Live 

Running a successful Instagram Live session requires some preparation. Start by promoting your live session ahead of time. Give your followers a reason to tune in.

During the live session, make sure to engage with viewers. Respond to comments, shout out to viewers by name, and make it interactive. Don't forget to save your live video to IGTV once it's over so others can watch it later.

Case Studies: Instagram Live

Fitness brands have truly embraced Instagram Live. They offer real-time workout sessions, nutrition talks, and live Q&As. One such brand is Gymshark, which regularly hosts workout sessions and engages directly with their community, making them feel a part of something bigger.

In conclusion, Instagram Live offers an unfiltered and authentic way to connect with your audience. It's real, it's interactive, and when done right, it can be incredibly effective.

IGTV (Instagram TV)

IGTV, short for Instagram TV, is Instagram's platform for long-form videos. Unlike Stories or Reels, IGTV videos can be up to 60 minutes long. This format is perfect for content that needs more depth and detail.



Using IGTV for Business

Sharing In-Depth Product Reviews

With IGTV, brands can share comprehensive product reviews. The longer format allows you to showcase every aspect of a product. This helps potential customers make informed decisions.



Posting Extended Interviews or Panel Discussions

IGTV is perfect for sharing longer conversations. Whether it's an in-depth interview with a founder or a panel discussion on industry trends, IGTV can host it all.



Sharing Educational Content

The long-form format of IGTV is great for educational content. You can share tutorials, guides, or courses on your brand's area of expertise. This positions your brand as a leader in the field.



Tips for Creating IGTV Videos 

Creating engaging IGTV content requires some planning. Make sure your video is visually appealing and well-lit. Pay attention to sound quality. Keep the video focused and engaging to hold viewers' attention. 

Just like any other video, your IGTV video should start strong. Hook viewers in the first few seconds. Be sure to add a compelling description and title to attract more viewers.

Success Stories Using IGTV

Many businesses have embraced IGTV with open arms. For example, Sephora, the beauty retailer, frequently uses IGTV for makeup tutorials and product reviews. These videos provide value to their customers and help showcase their products. 

To summarize, IGTV is a powerful tool for sharing long-form-content on Instagram. It's perfect for brands that want to share in-depth information, educate their audience, or showcase their expertise. 

Instagram Video Posts

Instagram Video Posts are just like regular Instagram posts, but with video content instead. They're a staple of any Instagram content strategy. Unlike Stories or Reels, they don't disappear after 24 hours, giving them a longer shelf life.



Instagram Video Posts for Business

Sharing Short Product Videos

Video posts can be used to showcase your products. Share a video that highlights your product's features, shows it in action, or demonstrates how to use it. 



Customer Testimonials

Use Instagram Video Posts to share testimonials from satisfied customers. Hearing positive reviews from real people can influence potential customers and build trust in your brand.



Sharing Company Culture or Event Highlights

Instagram Video Posts are a great way to share your company's culture or event highlights. Show off your team, your workspace, or exciting company events. It helps to humanize your brand and make it more relatable. 



Creating High-Quality Instagram Video Posts

Quality matters when it comes to Instagram Video Posts. Make sure your video is clear, well-lit, and high-resolution. Pay attention to the audio quality, too.

Remember to keep your video short and engaging. Instagram allows videos up to 60 seconds for regular posts, so make every second count. Also, include a compelling caption to complement your video and engage your audience. 

Success Stories with Instagram Video Posts

Businesses from all sectors are utilizing Instagram Video Posts effectively. Airbnb, for example, shares videos of their unique listings and experiences hosted by locals. This not only showcases their offerings but also entices viewers to explore more. 

In conclusion, Instagram Video Posts are vital to any Instagram content strategy. They're versatile, engaging, and have a longer lifespan than Stories or Reels. Use them to showcase your products, share customer testimonials, or give a glimpse into your company culture. 

Summing up the Instagram Video Formats

As we've explored, Instagram provides a wide range of video formats for businesses to leverage. Each format has unique benefits and uses, from short-lived Stories to long-form IGTV videos. These tools offer businesses a way to share engaging content, connect with their audience, and boost their brand's visibility.



Encouragement to Experiment

However, there's no one-size-fits-all strategy for Instagram video formats. Each business is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. It's important to experiment with different formats, analyze the results, and determine what resonates best with your audience.



Final Takeaways

The power of Instagram's video features is undeniable. As we move into the digital age, video content is becoming increasingly crucial for businesses. So, it's time to embrace these tools, get creative, and share your brand's story through video.

In 2023 and beyond, leveraging Instagram's diverse video formats will be an option and a necessity for businesses seeking to thrive on social media. Don't let your brand get left behind. Start leveraging these tools today, and let your brand shine on Instagram.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. What is the maximum length for an Instagram Story? 

Each Instagram Story can be up to 15 seconds long. However, you can post multiple Stories back-to-back to create a longer narrative. 



2. How long can Instagram Reels be?

Instagram Reels can be between 15 and 30 seconds long. This makes them perfect for short, catchy content.



3. Can everyone see my Instagram Live videos? 

Your Instagram Live videos are visible to your followers when you're streaming. After the live broadcast, you can choose to share the replay on IGTV, where anyone can view it.



4. Is there a time limit for IGTV videos?

For most users, IGTV videos can be up to 15 minutes long when uploaded from a mobile device and up to 60 minutes from a computer.



5. How long can Instagram Video Posts be?

Instagram Video Posts can be up to 60 seconds long. If you have longer content, consider using IGTV or breaking your video up into several posts.



6. Can I use copyrighted music in my Instagram videos?

Instagram's guidelines stipulate that you should only use music you have the right to use. There are also features like Music Stickers and the Instagram music library, which allow you to add music to your videos within the app itself. 



7. What type of content should I share on each video format? 

That really depends on your brand and your audience. However, Stories are great for informal, engaging content, Reels are ideal for fun, catchy videos, Live is perfect for Q&As or demonstrations, IGTV is suited for longer, in-depth content, and Video Posts are a versatile tool for various types of content. 



8. How can I improve the engagement on my Instagram videos? 

Some tips include using relevant hashtags, posting when your audience is most active, interacting with your audience in the comments, and ensuring your content is high-quality, relevant, and engaging. Experimenting with different formats and types of content can also help you find what works best for your audience.