What is Reels?

Also known as: Instagram Reels, Short video

Definition

Short vertical videos on Instagram (15-90 seconds) — similar to TikTok content — aimed at broad discovery via the Instagram algorithm, which prioritizes Reels in the Explore feed.

In-depth explanation

Since 2020, Reels have been the most important organic growth format on Instagram. The algorithm shows Reels mainly to non-followers, so brands grow faster with them than with classic posts. For agencies, it's standard to schedule 2-4 Reels per client each week — often repurposed from TikTok content.

Reels best practices: a hook in the first 1-3 seconds (otherwise the viewer scrolls past), a text overlay for people watching without sound, trending audio for an algorithmic boost, and a consistent upload frequency (3+ per week).

Example from agency practice

For client "Restaurant Borrelhap", the agency films 4 short clips every Monday: one of the chef making a dish, one atmospheric shot, one guest testimonial, one behind-the-scenes of the team. These 4 Reels are published across the week.

Especially relevant for

  • Content creators
  • Social media managers
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