Creating Storytelling for Instagram
What was not too long ago a platform mostly bare of advertisers is now any savvy digital marketer’s playbook. There are now more than 25 million business accounts on Instagram competing for the attention of the app’s 80 million personal users. Today, Instagram is one of the most powerful platforms for video marketing.
But video marketing on Instagram is different than it is for most other types of platforms. Rather than focusing on more in-depth, long-form content to post on Facebook or YouTube, videos designed for Instagram tend to be much shorter with some important stylistic differences to consider.
Here is some information you should know about creating and publishing video for Instagram:
Different ways to share video
On Instagram, you can create two types of content: standard posts to your newsfeed and posts to your stories. Stories are up to 15 seconds long and will only stay in your story for up to 24 hours. These videos tend to be more spontaneous—you shouldn’t have to put as much planning and effort into your Instagram stories as other branded videos. The other posts are your more traditional algorithm-based posts that do not have an expiration date.
Maximum times
Instagram has expanded its newsfeed videos to a maximum of 60 seconds from the previous 15-second maximum. The platform is also considering adding long-form options, but that might not happen for some time. This shorter time limit means you must create content that draws viewers in immediately and gets its message across quickly. This is important for any form of social media, but other most other platforms do not have the same kinds of time restraints as you’ll find on Instagram.
Different frames
Instagram also frames its content differently than other platforms. Rather than the traditional ratios you’ll find on phones and monitors, Instagram has a square box that all video content fits into. Any video content you create should be filmed strategically so you can frame it properly on Instagram’s platform.
Thumbnails
Another unique aspect about using Instagram video is that you can select the thumbnail image you use for the video. This thumbnail will show up on your Instagram page, and essentially gives your viewers their very first impression of the content. Make sure you choose an image that’s a) related to the video (preferably a frame from the video itself) and b) draws people’s attention.
Looping content
When your video stops playing on Instagram, it starts over again immediately. This can allow you to get creative with your videos. Many companies have created more bite-sized content that loops perfectly, which can end up being sort of hypnotic to viewers and encourage them to watch the video over and over again.
These are just a few things you should know about developing videos for Instagram and telling good stories on the platform. For more information, say hello.
About Us
Spin Creative is a video production company and creative agency helping marketers create winning video and creative strategies that engage, inspire and activate targeted audiences. Spin is headquartered in Seattle with offices in San Francisco and London, serving brands around the globe.
