Annas Aisya

October 5, 2023 | 11 min read

Video for Instagram: How to Choose Between a Feed Video, a Story, a Reel, and Instagram Live

Video for Instagram: How to Choose Between a Feed Video, a Story, a Reel, and Instagram Live

Feed Videos vs. Stories vs. Reels vs. Instagram Live

So, you're scrolling through Instagram, and bam! – there's a ton of video options. Let's break it down, shall we? Feed Videos are like your digital scrapbook – they hang around, telling your long tales. Think of them as those photos on your wall. Stories? They’re your daily doodles – here today, gone in 24 hours. Quick insights, fun updates, that sort of thing. Reels are your flash dances, quick and catchy, dancing to whatever tune is currently hot on the charts. And Instagram Live? That’s your real-time chat show – raw, unscripted, and oh-so-real.

When to Use a Story?

Okay, imagine you've got this buzzing excitement about something you want to share, but you're not sure if it deserves a permanent spot on your profile. Enter: Stories. They're the quick, casual chats you'd have over a coffee break.

Updates on the go: If you're attending an event, hosting a pop-up sale, or simply wandering through the vibrant streets of Melbourne, capturing those fleeting moments is what Stories were made for. They're perfect for those impromptu "Hey, look where I am!" or "Guess what’s happening right now!" posts.

Behind-the-scenes: Curious followers? Satisfy their curiosity with a behind-the-scenes look into your day, be it a sneak peek of a product in the making, a fun office moment, or even the chaos before a big launch. It makes things personal, showing them the human side of your brand.

Engagement boosters: Here's where you can get a little interactive. Polls, Q&A sessions, quizzes, and even those addictive sliders – they’re not just fun; they're a sneaky way to get insights into what your audience thinks. Want to know if they'd prefer a blue shirt over a red one? Or if they're excited about an upcoming product? Pop that question!

Limited-time offers: Got a sale that lasts just a day? Or a promo code for the first 50 people? Stories, with their 24-hour lifespan, create this sense of urgency. It's like whispering a secret deal, and who can resist that?

Connecting with other content: Stories are fab for shoutouts, be it to a customer who tagged you in a post or another brand you're collaborating with. Plus, if you've got a post that needs a little extra love, use Stories to point your followers towards it.

Remember, with Stories, it's all about the now. It’s casual, it’s spontaneous, and oh, did I mention the fun stickers and GIFs you can throw in?

When to Use a Reel?

Let’s talk about Reels, the hip youngster on the Instagram block. Imagine you’ve stumbled upon a hot trend, maybe it's a funky dance move or a wild new challenge – that’s pure Reel territory. They're those electric moments you'd share in a heartbeat to bring a smile or a snappy nod from your audience.

Jumping on the Trend Train: You know when a catchy tune gets stuck in your head, or a hilarious challenge is making the rounds? That’s your cue! Reels are perfect for those “Let’s try this out!” moments where you can ride the viral wave and maybe, just maybe, get your 15 minutes of Insta fame.

Short but Sweet Stories: Got a compact tale to tell? Maybe it’s the journey of a product from idea to shelf or a quick DIY tutorial? Think of Reels as your mini-storytelling platform, where each second is precious and packs a punch.

Showcase Your Fun Side: Want to show off your brand’s playful personality? Use Reels to break from the professional mold once in a while. Share those wacky office moments, team bloopers, or even that attempt to create the largest pancake stack. It's about letting your hair down and inviting your followers to the party!

Creative Explorations: Discovering a new way to use your product or a creative hack that makes life easier? Reels offer you a stage to share those lightbulb moments in a snazzy, snappy format, all while that catchy beat plays in the background.

When to Use Instagram Live?

Alright, ever had that urge to just pick up the phone and chat with someone? That's the magic of Instagram Live. It's spontaneous, unfiltered, and oh-so-real. Let's dive into those moments when going "live" feels just right.

Real-time Interactions: You know when you have big news to share and text just won’t cut it? That's when you hit that Live button. Maybe it's a product launch, or you've just won an award. Sharing it on Live is like inviting your followers over for a celebration. Balloons, confetti, and all!

Q&A Sessions: Got a bunch of questions piled up in your DMs? Or maybe there’s a topic everyone's curious about? Hosting a Live Q&A is like having a cozy chat over tea. It's personal and insightful, and it feels like you're hanging out with your followers in your living room (or wherever you choose to go live from!).

Behind-the-Scenes Magic: Prepping for an event? Or setting up a photoshoot? Take your followers on a backstage tour. It’s raw, it’s authentic, and it’s a fabulous way to let them in on the hustle and bustle that they don’t usually see.

Collaborations and Takeovers: Ever thought about teaming up with another brand or influencer? Instagram Live is perfect for that. It’s like hosting a fun radio show where two personalities merge and share stories and tips, or just have a hearty laugh.

Going live is all about the moment. It’s raw, sometimes unpredictable, but always genuine. There's no script, no retakes. It's you, your phone, and an audience eager to engage. So, the next time you're feeling that buzz, don't shy away – hit that Live button and let the magic unfold!

How to Get More Views?

So, you've put all this effort into your content and now you're wondering, "How do I get more eyeballs on it?" I totally get it – it's like throwing a party and wanting to make sure everyone shows up! Let's unwrap some tried-and-true tricks to boost those views:

Engage, Engage, Engage: Ever notice how we feel drawn to those who seem genuinely interested in us? It’s human nature! Dive into the comments, reply to messages, and maybe even start some conversations yourself. When you engage, it’s like walking into a room and starting a chat – people take notice.

Hashtags, But Make Them Relevant: Think of hashtags as the road signs pointing people to your content. But here's the trick: they’ve got to be relevant. It’s like inviting someone over for pizza and then actually having pizza. So, do a bit of research, find out what's trending, and hop onto those hashtag trains!

Collaborate and Cross-Promote: Know the saying, 'Two heads are better than one'? Teaming up with others (be it influencers or complementary brands) can expose your content to a fresh set of eyes. It's like hosting a joint party where both invite lists merge.

Consistency is Key: It's like your favorite TV show – you know when to tune in because they stick to a schedule. Similarly, if you post consistently, people know when to look out for your content. They'll know, "Hey, it's Tuesday, I bet they've got something new up!"

Stories and Highlights: Use Stories to nudge people towards your main content. It's like peeking over someone's shoulder and whispering, "Hey, did you see this yet?" And for the real gold? Save it to Highlights so newcomers get a taste of your best bits.

Remember, it's not just about racking up numbers, but connecting authentically. When people sense the real, passionate you behind the content, they're more likely to stop, watch, and even come back for more. So, keep it genuine, sprinkle in these tips, and watch those views soar!

Meet Vimi

Ever had one of those moments when you watch a video and it just clicks? That's what we at Vimi aim for. Located in the heart of Melbourne, we're not just another video production company. We're your go-to storytellers, the kind who understand the heartbeat of a brand and turn it into cinematic magic.

Every piece we craft is a labor of love. We dive deep, get to know the essence of what makes your brand unique, and then – here's where the magic happens – we translate that into a visual spectacle. It’s not just about making videos; it’s about crafting stories that resonate.

The best part? Working with us isn’t just a transaction, it's a journey. A journey where we walk alongside you, understanding your vision, and then sprinkling our Vimi expertise to bring it to life. Be it an evocative brand story, an innovative advert, or even a heartwarming testimonial, when it's a Vimi production, you'll feel the difference.

So, if you’re in the mood for video content that doesn't just look good, but feels right, you know where to find us. Dive into the world of Vimi, and let's make some magic together!

Frequently Asked Question 

1. What's the difference between Feed Videos, Stories, Reels, and Instagram Live?

Hey there, curious one! When it comes to Instagram, we've got a smorgasbord of video options. Feed Videos are your classic posts that stay on your profile. Think of them as the comfy couch in your living room. Stories? Those are your 24-hour snapshots – the fleeting moments you want to share, like a fun day out with friends. Reels are your chance to get a bit fancy, with a sprinkle of creativity in a short span. And Instagram Live? That’s your real-time chat, like calling a mate to share some news.

2. When is the best time to use a Story?

Ah, Stories! Perfect for those 'in-the-moment' captures. Think of Stories as sending quick updates or behind-the-scenes glimpses to your pals. Whether it's a sneak peek of a new project, a day in your life, or even just a fun selfie moment, Stories are perfect for those transient, yet impactful moments that you want to share without making a permanent mark on your feed.

3. What makes Reels so special, and when should I use them?

Reels are Instagram's flashy younger sibling. If you're looking to showcase creativity, be it a fun dance, a quick tutorial, or even a brand message in a snazzy format, Reels are your playground. The key? They're short, snappy, and have that 'watch again' charm. And given their prominence on Instagram right now, they're great for catching attention.

4. Why and when would I want to go Live on Instagram?

Ever had a moment you just wanted to share right then and there? Instagram Live is your platform. Perfect for real-time interactions, Q&A sessions, or even a spontaneous chat about something you love. It brings a personal touch, connecting you directly with your audience. It's raw, unfiltered, and creates a unique bond with viewers.

5. Any tricks up your sleeve on how to get more views on my videos?

Oh, absolutely! Engagement is your best buddy. Dive into comments, initiate conversations, and be genuinely present. Using relevant hashtags is like giving your content a roadmap for viewers. Collaborations can also open up new audiences. And consistency? It's like your favorite weekly show; people come back for more when they know what to expect.

6. I keep hearing about Vimi. Who are you guys?

Well, aren't we flattered! Vimi is our pride and joy, a video production house nestled in Melbourne. But we're not just about pressing record and cut. We’re storytellers. Each project we embark on is a journey to craft a narrative that resonates, evokes emotion, and speaks volumes. So, whether it's a brand story, an ad, or any video content, with Vimi, it's always a cut above the rest.

7. Are Feed Videos still relevant with all these new formats?

Absolutely! While it's fun to experiment with all the new tools, Feed Videos are like the trusty old books on a shelf. They're evergreen, stay on your profile, and give a more lasting impression. They’re perfect for content that you want to remain accessible and revisitable for your audience.

8. Can Reels really help my brand?

You bet they can! Reels are currently the shining star on Instagram. With their short, engaging format, they offer a fresh and creative way to showcase your brand. Think of them as mini-adverts or trailers, giving a burst of what you’re about in just a few seconds. Plus, with Instagram pushing Reels, they often get better visibility.

9. How interactive is Instagram Live? Can my audience engage with me?

100%! That's the beauty of Live. It’s like hosting a virtual meetup. Viewers can comment in real-time, and send reactions, and you can even invite them to join your Live. It creates a two-way conversation, making your followers feel more connected and valued.

10. What sets Vimi apart from other video production companies?

Well, without tooting our own horn too much, it’s our approach. At Vimi, every video is a narrative waiting to be told. We don't just film; we delve deep into what the brand represents, its essence, its voice. Then, with a sprinkle of our Vimi magic, we weave it into a visual story. It's not just production; it's passion-driven creation.

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