Instagram Reels are short, entertaining videos that users can create and share on Instagram. Reels can be up to 30 seconds long and are created using the Instagram camera or by uploading videos created elsewhere. Many users create high-quality Reels by editing and exporting videos made in Premiere Pro, a professional video editing software from Adobe.
When creating Reels in Premiere Pro for Instagram, it’s important to export them at the correct specifications and dimensions for the platform. Here’s what you need to know about Instagram Reels size and specs when using Premiere Pro.
Recommended Resolution for Instagram Reels
The recommended resolution for Instagram Reels is 1080 x 1920 pixels. This is a 9:16 vertical video format that matches the default dimensions people see when scrolling through their Instagram feed or watching Reels.
Setting your Premiere Pro sequence to 1080 x 1920 will ensure your exported Reels are optimized for how users experience content on Instagram. Avoid creating Reels in landscape formats or non-vertical dimensions.
Accepted Resolution and Aspect Ratios
While 1080 x 1920 is ideal, Instagram does accept Reels at slightly different resolutions and aspect ratios:
- 1080 x 1920 pixels (9:16 landscape)
- 1080 x 1350 pixels (4:5 portrait)
- 900 x 1600 pixels (9:16 landscape)
As long as your Reel is within a 9:16 to 4:5 vertical aspect ratio, it should be fully supported. Stick to 1080 or 900 pixel widths for the best quality.
Frame Rate for Smooth Playback
When exporting from Premiere Pro, use a frame rate of 29.97 or 30 fps. This matches the playback speed people expect for smooth video on Instagram and other social platforms.
Higher frame rates like 60 fps are not necessary for Reels since Instagram’s video player and feeds do not support that high of frame rate playback.
File Format and Compression
Export your edited Reels from Premiere Pro as MP4 files. MP4 is the most widely compatible and efficient format to use for social media videos.
When exporting, apply video compression with H.264 codec and AAC audio compression for the best results. This balances high visual quality with smaller file sizes that will upload and share quickly.
Aim for your final Reels to be under 100MB each to ensure smooth uploading. Compression helps minimize file size without excessively sacrificing quality.
Reels Editing Tips in Premiere Pro
Here are some tips for editing great Reels in Premiere Pro that take advantage of Instagram’s capabilities:
- Use multiple video and photo clips – Reels support up to 30 seconds of combined media.
- Add captions to clips to enhance your storytelling.
- Use Instagram AR effects and filters to spice up your content.
- Trim clips precisely to have them transition seamlessly.
- Mix in popular music, sounds, voiceovers to make compelling Reels.
- Pan and zoom for dynamic camera movements.
- Apply color correction for consistent visuals.
Uploading Reels to Instagram
Once your Reel is exported from Premiere Pro, uploading it Instagram is simple:
- Open the Instagram app on your mobile device.
- Tap the + icon in the top bar and select “Reel” to begin a new one.
- Select your exported Reel video from your camera roll or library.
- Edit and customize within Instagram’s editor if desired.
- Share to your feed or stories!
The Reels creation process is designed to be flexible between mobile editing and exporting high-quality videos from desktop tools like Premiere Pro. Take advantage of both workflows to make next-level Reels content.
Maximizing Exposure for Reels
To gain maximum visibility and engagement on your Premiere Pro-edited Reels on Instagram, be sure to:
- Use relevant and popular hashtags in your caption.
- Tag any collaborators or featured accounts.
- Engage your existing audience to like, comment, and share.
- Share as both a feed post and on stories.
- Run as an ad to reach new audiences.
- Remix with trending audio and effects.
- Post consistently at optimal times.
Creative Reels Ideas to Try
Take your video skills up a level by trying these creative Reels concepts tailored for Instagram:
- Product demos and reviews
- Behind-the-scenes company culture videos
- Spotlight employee features
- Tutorials and how-tos
- Listicles and informational content
- Quote and user-generated Reels
- Animated text and graphics Reels
- Trending meme formats
- Collabs with influencers
- Teaser clips previewing IGTV videos
Analytics to Measure Reels Performance
Analyzing metrics helps you refine your Reels strategy and create better performing content over time. Be sure to review:
- Impressions and reach
- Engagement rate
- Likes, comments, and shares
- Saved count
- Traffic to profile and website
- Audience retention
- Demographics
Instagram provides analytics within the app to help track these metrics for each of your Reels. Dive into the data regularly to see what resonates with your audience.
Promoting Your Brand with Reels
Reels present a big opportunity for brands looking to grow and engage their Instagram audience. Consistently posting high-quality Reels related to your brand builds authority and awareness.
Show behind-the-scenes looks at your products and workspace. Create educational content around your industry. Collaborate with influencers in your niche. And have fun trying viral trends!
Well-crafted Reels that provide value entertain viewers while organically getting your brand seen. The flexibility of Premiere Pro’s editing tools enables brands to make incredibly creative Reels optimized for Instagram.
So now that you know the ideal Instagram Reels size and specs to design in Premiere Pro, it’s time to start editing! Make memorable vertical videos that capture attention and drive real business results on Instagram.