Everything about video durations on Instagram
Since its launch in 2010, Instagram has become so much more than an app that allows users to share photos. Instagram offers a wide range of content, with its Explore Page recommending posts based on users’ interests. Its in-app video tools also make it easy to capture and share moments with friends and followers. Whether you’re sharing travel highlights or footage from your latest concert, you might be wondering: how long can Instagram videos be? In this blog, we break down the different types of Instagram videos and their time limits.
How long are Instagram videos for posts?
If you want to upload a short and snappy video onto your Instagram, you have two options. You can either record a video in-app, or you can choose to upload one from your camera gallery. Instagram video posts can last between 3 seconds to 10 minutes in length (60 minutes for certain accounts.) However, if your video runs for longer than 60 seconds, Instagram will play a preview in the feed and let users watch the rest on your profile. Take a look below at the teaser we created for Georgia Harrison’s brand; GHX Style, below.
How long are Instagram video ads?
Thinking about running Instagram video ads? You can create adverts between 3 and 120 seconds long. Brands like KFC and Kettle Crips are just a few examples of companies who have done this type of advertising and it has worked brilliantly for them. (see examples below).
How long are Instagram reel videos?
Reels are Instagram’s answer to TikTok.They are short and snappy vertical videos which usually last between 15-60 seconds. Reels are available in over 50 countries and are a great way for businesses to showcase their services/products to their global audiences. “Since introducing Reels to our Instagram channel last year, we’ve seen our engagement grow by 280%,” shares Later’s Social Media Manager, Mel Brittner. Users can scroll through an endless stream of video content from accounts across Instagram. Unlike your main feed, Reels lets users discover videos from accounts you don’t follow, making it a great way to reach new audiences. Reels can also be accessed directly from users’ profiles and the Explore page.
How long are Instagram video stories?
When Stories launched in 2016, users were able to share snippets of their day without the need of creating a full post. Instagram stories are short videos (maximum length of 15 seconds) which are posted to your profile and only last for 24 hours, before disappearing. However, if you want these stories to stay on your profile forever, you can turn them into highlights. You can categories your highlights and add new content to them once they’ve been uploaded to your profile. Check out how we’ve created our very own highlights!
In 2018, Instagram introduced Close Friends, letting you share more personal stories with a select group of followers.
Maximum video length on livestreams
Whether you want to announce something exciting to your followers or simply have a chat, you can do all that for a maximum of 60 minutes at a time. But what if you want to livestream for longer than an hour? Well, the good news is that you can immediately go live again after your 60-minute time limit has ended, creating another 60-minute session for your followers to join. Your livestreams are automatically saved as videos, so your followers can watch them later. You can choose to disable this feature, if you’d prefer they didn’t…
Let’s chat?
At DreamingFish, our talented team is well-versed in the creation of Instagram video ads that help brands connect with their target audiences and demographics around the world. From live-action videos to animation, to something extra cool and unique, we will work with you to get your message heard loud and clear. Interested in seeing what we can do? Check out our portfolio.
