Text to speech, also known as speech synthesis, allows you to convert written text into natural sounding speech. This can be extremely useful for creating engaging video content for platforms like Instagram Reels. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to get text to speech working for your Reels.
What is Text to Speech?
Text to speech (TTS) is a form of speech synthesis that converts written text into spoken word. It works by having a computer or application read aloud any text fed into it. The text is analyzed, words are translated into phonemes, and those phonemes are transformed into audio waves that mimic natural human speech patterns and inflection.
Some key benefits of using TTS include:
- Allows you to create audio versions of written content
- Useful for long form content you want to convert to audio
- Creates natural and clear sounding voiceovers
- Can automate audio creation for videos and other media
- Available in a variety of languages and voices
TTS is commonly used for eLearning content, audiobooks, accessibility applications, AI assistants, and much more. When applied to short form video content like Reels, it provides an easy way to add high quality voiceovers to engage viewers.
Why Use Text to Speech for Reels?
Here are some of the top reasons adding TTS to your Reels can take them to the next level:
- Increase accessibility – Reels with audio get more engagement
- Save time & money – No need to record or hire voiceovers
- Improves storytelling – Add personality with different voices
- Repurpose existing content – Turn blogs, articles, etc into Reels
- Scale content creation – Automate voiceovers for multiple Reels
- Higher chance of being featured – Reels prioritize videos with audio
While Reels were designed for short form viral video content, adding high quality voiceovers can make them more meaningful, engaging, and accessible. TTS provides an easy way to do this that saves time and money.
Ways to Get Text to Speech for Reels
There are a few different options when it comes to adding TTS to your Reels content. Here are some of the top methods:
1. TTS Apps and Software
There are many apps and software programs designed specifically for high-quality TTS conversion:
- descript – Web and iOS app with natural voices and audio editing features
- Voicemod – Realistic voices with mobile and desktop apps
- Amazon Polly – AWS service with dozens of lifelike voices
- NaturalReader – Software with customizable playback speed and voices
- Balabolka – Free program for Windows text to speech
2. Built-In Text to Speech
Many operating systems have TTS abilities built-in:
- iOS – Speak Selection and Speak Screen features
- Mac – Text to Speech in Accessibility settings
- Windows – Narrator text to speech tool
- Android – Select to Speak and TalkBack apps
- Chromebook – Select to Speak option
3. Online Text to Speech
For quick TTS without downloading software, use online tools like:
- NaturalReaders – 150+ voices and speed control
- Voicetron – Natural sounding voices with inflection
- FromTextToSpeech – Easy to use without signup
- VozMe – Unlimited conversions with email signup
- Speechelo – 228 voices in 22 languages
How to Add Text to Speech in Reels
Once you’ve chosen a text to speech tool or service, adding it to your Reels is straightforward. Here is the general process:
- Write out the text you want converted to speech for your Reel.
- Use your selected TTS tool to convert the text into an audio MP3 or WAV file.
- Import the TTS audio file into your video editing software.
- Add the voiceover file to your Reel video.
- Align the timing of the voiceover to match the video.
- Adjust audio levels and edit as needed.
- Export the finished Reel video with audio.
- Upload to Instagram Reels as you normally would.
The exact steps may vary based on the specific TTS tool you’re using. But generally you’ll create an audio file, add it to your Reel, sync the timing, and adjust the sound before sharing.
Tips for Effective Text to Speech Reels
To take full advantage of text to speech technology for your Reels, keep these tips in mind:
- Use an engaging, upbeat voice – this captures attention right away
- Highlight key text in bold or italics for emphasis
- Add background music for more entertaining Reels
- Break up text into short, easy to digest sentences or bullet points
- Use natural pauses between statements for better flow
- Adjust speed or pitch for very long or short Reels
- Always listen and edit your converted audio before using
- Align voiceover timing, text overlays, graphics, and B-roll footage
- Check sound levels to prevent voiceover from being too loud
Taking the time to craft your script, edit the TTS audio, and align with visuals will lead to engaging, high-quality Reels that connect with your audience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is text to speech allowed on Reels?
Yes, Instagram has not prohibited or restricted using text to speech or synthesized voices on Reels. As long as the content aligns with their community guidelines, text to speech is allowed.
Do Reels with audio get more engagement?
Absolutely. Instagram’s algorithm favors Reels that have audio and will show them to more viewers. Adding a text to speech voiceover can significantly increase the engagement and reach of your Reels.
What’s the best text to speech software for Reels?
Some of the best options for creating natural sounding TTS for Reels are descript, Amazon Polly, Voicemod, Speechelo, and NaturalReader. All provide high-quality voices and the ability to export audio files to use in video editing.
Can you use a robot voice for Reels?
You can use a robotic, computer-generated voice but this is less ideal. Viewers typically prefer more natural sounding human voices. But you can experiment to see if a robotic voiceover aligns with your brand.
Is the audio from text to speech copyright free?
Text to speech audio is generated from your own text, so it does not have any copyrights or royalties to worry about. The exception would be if you use a text passage that is copyrighted by someone else.
Conclusion
Adding text to speech to your Instagram Reels takes them to the next level. With the ability to convert any written text into natural sounding voiceovers, you can create engaging and accessible content that will resonate with more viewers.
The right text to speech tools make it quick and easy to automate high-quality audio for your short videos. And platforms like Reels now give you an ideal way to repurpose and share that audio content.
So try out some of the top text to speech options, craft captivating scripts, and watch your Reels performance and engagement improve. Just don’t forget those key tips that will make your TTS Reels truly stand out and connect with your audience!