Instagram Reel Maker

Your reels should fit Instagram’s guidelines which are a 9:16 aspect ratio for vertical clips. 

You can record in 4K, but upload your video in 1080px1920 resolution for the best results. It’s also best to keep all text in the center, away from borders so it doesn’t get cut by Instagrams interface.

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The best app for creating reels depends on your needs. 

If you want an all-in-one app that lets you record, edit and generate clips then Riverside is your best choice. You can record in 4K, automatically generate clips, or edit your own from scratch in the AI editor. It’s built for creators who want higher-quality reels in less time, without juggling multiple apps.

For other options, check our full guide to the best Instagram reels editing apps.

You can make a reel for free directly in Instagram’s built in editor, or using their Edits app. If you want more editing flexibility, then try our free plan. 

On Riverside’s free plan, you can record in up to 720p, let AI highlight the best moments with Magic Clips, then edit with text-based editing. All without paying a cent, no strings attached.

Here’s how to create a reel for free using our free plan: 

Step 1: Go to the sign up and page and log in with a free account. 

Step 2: In the dashboard, you can upload your own existing recordings or create a new studio to start a recording. 

If you create new studio, click the “Record” button to start your own HD recording. You can also download the app to record directly from your phone. All recordings will sync directly to your desktop. 

Step 3: Go to your recording and click the “Magic clips” button to generate your own clips from a longer recording. Or click on “Ask co-creator” to ask your new editing assistant to create a reel for you. 

You can also go to the editor to create your reel yourself.

Read more: How to make instagram reels

Right now, the Instagram Reel length limit is 3 minutes. Technically, you can create a reel up to 20 minutes long, but it won’t be shown to new audiences. 

This is a lot longer than the original limit which was first 60 seconds and then 90 seconds. It appears there’s a trend of longer content. That said, if you create something longer, you need to make sure it’s engaging enough for people to watch till the end. The more people watch all the way through, the more the algorithm could boost your video.

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Influencers usually have a whole creation workflow. For example, here’s what could go into it:

• Planning: This could include writing a script, choosing a hook to grab attention or deciding what audio to use. 
• Filming: Next, it’s time to film talking head video or any b-roll shots. You can also film a longer recording and cut it up into segments or reels after.
• Editing: Cut filler words, fix up audio, trim your recordings and perfect them with captions, text, image or b-roll overlays. 
• Music: Select an audio. It’s best if you choose something that’s already trending to boost discoverability.
• Publish: Add a caption, then, schedule or share your reel when your audience is most active. 

Most influencers use dedicated apps for their workflow. And if you want to save yourself using multiple apps, then you can try an all-in-one Instagram reel maker like Riverside. You can do all the above and more.