Ahh, reels, reels, reels.
Either love them or hate them.
In case you hadn’t noticed, there has been a huge shift in reels slowly starting to take over Instagram, and with this, you’re most likely feeling a little overwhelmed because this app was ‘once a photo sharing app’, and while it still is, reels are here for one reason.
Drum roll, please…
Engagement!
Yes, folks, that is what you’re looking for when posting. You want people to engage with you, and your content and reels are just another way to do that.
It’s ok if you’re not completely in love with them. You don’t have to be. But it’s definitely smart to take advantage of them.
This leads me to my first tip.
It doesn’t have to be you on camera
You don’t have to pimp yourself out in reels to be noticed or get bookings.
I don’t know a photographer that likes being in front of the camera. There are plenty of other ways to get creative with reels where you are not the focus.
For example…
Create slideshows of your work
I recently photographed a wedding where I got married #sureal. I created a reel from it, and it has double the number of views my reels usually get.
All I did was create a little snippet of the wedding, put together a few of my favourite photos and added in some music.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/CkLQOEkgd3p/
Worked like a charm.
But if you can get in front of the camera…go for it!
For those confident enough to get in front of the camera, do it!
Reels like this are fun and a great way to show people you don’t take yourself too seriously.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cilc7hcgx7I/
This reel blew up. My comments went crazy, and it had 40k views.
If it’s not for you, don’t force it, there’s plenty of other content that you can create.
If you’re struggling with reel ideas, don’t fret. I’ve put together my top 30 reel ideas so you’ll always have content.
Your phone camera is all you need to get started
Investing in a new camera or lens for a specific project is always a guilty pleasure.
But hold it right there, partner. Reels aren’t worth it.
All you need is your phone camera to get started.
Save your money or invest in something else. Reels are good but not that good.
Create the content your want to see
When brainstorming and coming up with ideas, think about what you want to see. If someone else posted it, would you actually stop and watch it?
Create things that are specific to your niche, like faqs or advice you’d want to receive yourself. That stuff is gold!
So in closing, use reels where you can and where you feel comfortable but don’t pimp yourself out just to get views.
If I’ve inspired you to create reels or revamp your Instagram, follow me to stay up to date with all of my latest tips and tricks.
