Yes, you can edit videos on Reels. Reels is a video creation and editing tool by Instagram that allows you to create short-form video content. With Reels, you have access to a variety of editing tools that allow you to customize your videos before sharing them.
Some of the key things you can do when editing videos on Reels include trimming video clips, adding audio and music, applying filters and effects, adding text overlays and stickers, and more. The Reels editing tools make it easy for anyone to edit their videos right within the Instagram app.
Steps to Edit Videos on Reels
Here is an overview of how to edit videos using Reels:
1. Access the Reels Camera
– Open the Instagram app and swipe right from your feed to open the camera
– Select “Reels” at the bottom to open the Reels camera
2. Record Clips
– Tap and hold the record button to record video clips up to 30 seconds long
– You can record multiple clips to add to your Reel
– Use the timer to countdown your recording if desired
3. Edit Clips
– Review your clips along the timeline at the bottom
– Trim clips shorter by adjusting start and end points
– Rearrange clips by dragging them along the timeline
– Delete clips by tapping the trash icon
4. Add Music
– Browse music from Instagram’s library of songs
– Search for a specific song or artist
– Adjust the volume of original audio vs added music
– Trim the start and end points of music added
5. Apply Effects
– Add filters like black & white, vintage, bright, and more
– Adjust video speed or add a timer slow motion effect
– Invert, duplicate or delete clip effects
6. Add Text and Stickers
– Select from an assortment of text fonts, colors and placements
– Search for specific emoji or stickers to overlay on your video
– Adjust size, rotation and positioning of added text and stickers
7. Rearrange and Finish
– Preview your Reel and make final edits
– Rearrange clips by dragging along the timeline
– When complete, tap “Share” to post the Reel to Instagram
Editing Tools in Reels
Reels provides a variety of powerful editing tools integrated right in the Instagram app. Here are some of the key capabilities:
Trimming Clips
You can trim your individual video clips to only include the most compelling moments. Drag the start and end points on the timeline to set the portion you want to include.
Rearranging Clips
Tell the story you want by easily rearranging the order of clips along the timeline. Simply drag clips left or right to reorder.
Adding Music and Audio
Music can help set the tone and mood for your Reel. Browse Instagram’s music library or use your own original audio.
Adjusting Speed
Highlight exciting moments by speeding up or slowing down the pace. Choose between slow motion or fast forward speeds.
Timer and Countdown Effects
Add anticipation and fun effects with a timer or countdown overlaid on your clips. Great for transitions and reveals.
Aligning Clips
Align helps your subject stay centered as the camera moves around. This provides smoother transitions between clips.
Video Effects
Make your clips pop by adding creative effects like black & white, vintage filters, bright, and other stylish edits.
Text and Stickers
Overlay text captions and eye-catching stickers to highlight key moments. Pick fonts, colors and placements.
Benefits of Editing Reels
Editing your video content using Reels provides a number of benefits:
Make Content More Compelling
Editing allows you to trim away excess footage and restructure the video storytelling for maximum impact.
Fix Mistakes
If something didn’t come out right while recording, editing gives you the chance to delete clips or fix issues.
Add Creativity
Access to music, effects, text and stickers helps you showcase your unique style and vision.
Highlight Key Moments
Use editing to draw attention to the most memorable and share-worthy moments from your raw clips.
Improved Watch Time
Tighter editing and pacing keeps viewers interested and engaged from start to finish.
Brand Consistency
Maintain on-brand visuals by having full control over the final look after editing.
Types of Edits to Try in Reels
Here are some of the most popular types of video edits and effects you can add in Reels:
Transitions
Add smooth transitions like slide or spin effects when changing between clips. Helps tie elements together.
Text Captions
Brief captions can highlight key moments. Try different text styles for the right vibe.
Sticker Elements
Reinforce the theme with fun stickers. Choose from Instagram’s library or make your own.
Split Screen
Show two clips side-by-side in a split screen for engaging visual storytelling.
Green Screen
Use the built-in green screen tool to place your subject in a custom background scene.
Align Clips
Take the viewer along for the ride by aligning clips as you move the camera around.
Timing Edits
Strategically time music drops, transitions and effects to hit on the beat.
Zooming
Add light zooming to highlight products, details or scenery for extra flair.
Reels Video Editing Tips
Here are some pro tips to take your Reels video editing skills to the next level:
Trim Clips Ruthlessly
Don’t be afraid to trim clips down to only a few of the best seconds. Shorter clips can have more impact.
Use Music Strategically
Align key moments to the drops and peaks in a song. This adds energy.
Make Sure Clips Flow
Review clip order and transitions. Rearrange anything that disrupts the flow.
Check Pacing
Fast paced editing builds energy while slower sections let moments land. Find the right balance.
Enhance Audio
Improve original audio quality using volume adjustments, voiceovers or strategic music.
Review Several Times
It often takes multiple review sessions to polish the editing. Don’t rush the process.
Ask for Feedback
Get outside opinions from friends or teammates. Fresh eyes can spot improvement opportunities.
Keep Text and Stickers Minimal
Less is often more with overlays. Only add text and stickers if they truly enhance the video.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about editing Reels videos:
What are the ideal video lengths for Reels?
Instagram Reels are best between 15-30 seconds long. You can record clips up to 30 seconds each. Shorter high-impact videos tend to perform best.
Can I use Reels to edit longer videos?
No, Reels is designed specifically for short-form vertical video edits under 30 seconds. For longer form videos, use editing software like Adobe Premiere.
Do I need other apps to edit Instagram Reels?
You can access all the core editing tools needed for Reels directly within the Instagram app. No need for third-party editing apps.
How do I add text or stickers to Reels?
Tap the stickers icon when editing your Reel to open the overlays menu. Browse an assortment of text, emoji, gifs and stickers to add.
Is there a way to save Reels drafts?
Yes! Tap “Save Draft” before sharing your Reel to access it later for additional editing before posting.
Conclusion
Editing videos using Instagram Reels provides a powerful way to customize and enhance your short-form video content. Take advantage of Reels’ built-in editing tools like trimming clips, adding music, applying video effects, inserting text captions and stickers, and more.
Put these editing features to use to highlight key moments, maintain brand consistency, fix mistakes, and tell compelling video stories optimized for engagement on Instagram. Use the tips outlined here to level up your Reels editing skills and produce high-quality video content your audience will love.