When browsing Facebook, how often do you come across Reels?
With Reels created and shared on both Facebook and Instagram, they are becoming an increasingly popular form of content for both personal and business user – infusing personality into the posts and creating content which is both entertaining and engaging.
But what actually are Reels?
What Is a Reel?
A reel is a short form piece of video content, made up of video clips or a compilation of photos set to music.
Reels derive from the growing popularity of TikTok as a platform which spotlights short but engaging videos. They are often inspired by dance routines, challenges, and trending video concepts, with reels considered a more interactive style of content than a typical Facebook post.
How Does a Facebook Reel Differ to an Instagram Reel?
Though reels are created on both Facebook and Instagram and can be shared interchangeably between the two, there are some differences.
If the reel was created on Facebook, then users can leave comments directly under the post – while on Instagram they first have to add their Instagram to the Accounts Centre. In addition, reels created on Facebook will display the creator’s Facebook name next to the reel. Finally, if you share a reel on Facebook then you can see who has liked it – while on Instagram you cannot.
How Does Facebook Recommend Reels?
Of course, Facebook reels aren’t just about creating compelling content – they are also great to watch and engage with.
Facebook recommends reels that the platform thinks you might like, based on your activity, the pages and content you engage with, and the things you appear interested in. It tends to prioritise reels created by friends on Facebook and people you know, as well as those who you follow.
You can save reels that you are interested in to view at a later date, accessible exclusively to you via your profile feed.
How to Make a Reel
The process of making and sharing a reel on Facebook gets easier with practice and experience. However, to get started you simply need to head to your profile page and tap on the ‘Reels’ header at the top of your feed.
Select ‘Create Reel’ and follow the instructions – uploading and then editing your video clips and photos until you’re ready to add a title and share your reel.
How to Browse Reels
Finally, if you want to browse and watch some more reels without waiting for them to appear in your newsfeed, you can do so easily by clicking on the ‘Video’ tab along the bottom of the screen.
Scroll down through the ‘For You’ videos which most closely align with your activity and interests on Facebook, or head to ‘Reels’ to browse a feed exclusively dedicated to reels.
We hope this helps – not only explaining how reels work and how to view them, but also inspiring you to try and create some of your own. Reels are both engaging and incredibly interactive, with the reel creation process on Facebook designed to make it as simple and intuitive as possible. Happy creating!
