Brainstorming content ideas for Instagram Reel can be difficult, especially if you’re suffering from writer’s block. To inspire you, we’re sharing some timeless Instagram reel ideas that you can use to grow your Instagram audience whether you’re a brand or a YouTuber.
15 ideas for engaging Instagram Reel
Instagram Reels are the best way to gain a lot of views on Instagram these days. According to Instagram, the algorithm favors funny, inspirational, or experimental videos.
However, creating one role at a time takes time and creativity. So here are 15 timeless Instagram reel ideas you can use (and reproduce again and again) today:
1: Introduce yourself and tell your story
If you find yourself in a creative rut (or see a wave of new subscribers), create a Reel that introduces yourself or your brand.
You can edit old video clips with voiceovers and text, or simply speak directly to the camera – the dealer’s choice!
TIP: Use Instagram’s Pinned Posts feature to pin your intro video to the top of the grid. This way, new members can get to know you straight away.
2: Show the “real side” of your brand/product
With perfectly curated channels, this Instagram Reel idea lets you share the less filtered side of your brand.
And that makes it the perfect Instagram vs. Reality video. If you don’t normally share this type of content, give it a try. After all, authenticity is the most important thing on Instagram.
3: Take your followers behind the scenes
Pull back the curtain and show your followers something behind the scenes.
Whether it’s a time-lapse video to plan content or show what happens during a product launch, these Reels are simple and effective.
It also creates a layer of connection: running a business or creating content isn’t just about glitz and glamour.
So next time you’re doing a photoshoot, preparing an order, or answering emails, pick up the phone and start filming – it’s that simple.
4: View before and after
Sharing before and after videos is a great way to increase engagement. Not only are they fascinating, but they can also be satisfying to watch – a recipe for the perfect role.
You can make roller skates before and after a home renovation, recipes, makeup tutorials, illustrations, and more.
There are no limits here!
5: Offer advice and guidance
If you’re out of ideas, getting a few tips and tricks is a good idea. No matter your industry, you have valuable information that can help your audience.
Whether you’re sharing style tips or TikTok SEO hacks, the creative possibilities are endless. You don’t have to have any imagination either. Share a quick tip and ask your audience to comment on the tips they would like to see.
6: Look
If you’re running out of Instagram Reels ideas, create a short video. Many brands and YouTubers use this type of content to generate excitement about a new product or exciting launch.
You can also use it to promote or announce an upcoming event, workshop, or series.
7: Follow the trend
Although following trends shouldn’t be your only strategy, it still serves a purpose. Trending content is an easy way to increase engagement (and visibility) on your Reels.
It can be as simple as using a popular song in your video or capitalizing on a trend that’s spreading on the platform.
While not all trends are right, identifying the right trends can (sometimes) help you engage with your current followers, attract new followers, and grow on Instagram. Win-win situation.
8: Reuse social content
Take a look at your content arsenal: past Instagram posts, TikTok videos, blog content, newsletters – what can be turned into Reels?
For example, if you have a TikTok video that is particularly popular with your target audience, why not share it on Instagram?
If you have a carousel post that has generated a lot of interest, why not summarize the main topics in a quick summary?
9: Share video tutorials
Whether you want to share tips on how to use your favorite editing app or bake the perfect chocolate chip cookies, you’ll have tons of ideas on how to do it.
And if you have ideas for educational videos, even better. You can film them all in one day and use them in a series. This will give you tons of Reel content to post throughout the week (or month).
10: Highlight your products
Instagram Reels are the perfect way to visually showcase your products, from cocktail sets to electronics and everything in between!
11: Showcase your community
Showcasing your community with user-generated content (UGC) is a powerful way to humanize yourself
Can it be done differently? Create a collection of positive customer reviews in aggregate form.
TIP: If you need help creating Reel content similar to UGC, consider working with UGC creators.
12: Make a list
Reels don’t always have to be about your brand or product. If you’re running out of ideas, use your interests or position as a source of inspiration.
TIP: Use the Instagram Reels template tool to insert your content into an existing template easily. Then add your text, filter, or comment.
13: Share a day in your life
This Instagram Reels idea is perfect for small business owners or lifestyle creators. It’s like a behind-the-scenes video, but instead, you walk your subscribers through your daily tasks.
14: Answer the most frequently asked questions
If you’re running out of Instagram Reels ideas, check out your Instagram comments, direct messages, and FAQs for inspiration.
Are your followers asking where you are? What are your best-selling products? Answer these questions and respond in a short 15-30-second video.
And since there is already a group of people who want to know this information, you are sure to get a lot of views and engagement!
15: Announce upcoming videos or podcast episodes
If you have a podcast or YouTube channel, you can use Reels to announce upcoming content. Share the trailer as a clip and let your followers know where and when they can watch the full video with subtitles.
If you have a podcast, you can also create a Reel that highlights part of the episode. Pick an interesting fragment and cut it out if it’s good: your audience will be intrigued by it and want to hear the rest.
And here it is! These are just a few Instagram reel ideas to get your creativity flowing, but they’re a good place to start.
Experiment with each, analyze the results and find what works best for your audience. Then rinse and repeat.