Discovering Instagram: Stories vs. Reels or Both

Instagram Stories vs. Reels

Are you ready to start marketing on Instagram but feeling confused about the differences between Instagram Stories and Reels? 

Navigating the ever-changing world of Instagram can feel a bit like trying to keep up with the latest dance trends. Just when you've mastered the moonwalk, along comes The Barbie Movie dance.

 

Barbie Movie Dance

Reels and Stories simply put are just different content types and each has a unique purpose in your strategy. Let's start with the the basics: 

What are Instagram Stories? 

Instagram Stories is a feature that allows you to share short videos or images that disappear after 24 hours. 

Stories are typically used to share more casual, behind-the-scenes content with your followers. They're easy to see because they show up in your profile picture at the top of the Instagram app making it easy for people will click to watch your story. 

Screenshot of the top of Instagram home page with people with stories. The ring around the picture shows it's active. I have a story.
I have a story!

What are Instagram Reels?

To keep up with TikTok Instagram created a feature that allows you to create and share short-form videos that can be up to 60 seconds long.

Reels can be shared on your profile, but they can also appear on the Explore page, which can help you reach a wider audience, which can result in new followers! 

The Features of Instagram Stories: 

  • 15 Seconds
  • Filters
  • Stickers
  • Text to Videos and Photos
  • Music
  • Polls
  • Hashtags
  • Visible for 24 Hours -then disappear
  • Highlights
  • Vertical video or static image

Instagram Reels Features: 

  • 60 Seconds
  • Filters
  • Special Effects
  • Captions on Video
  • Music
  • Hashtags
  • Video Editing
  • Feed Posts
  • Save as draft
  • Vertical Video

Key Differences Between Instagram Stories and Reels

While both Instagram Stories and Reels are designed to help you create short-form videos, there are some key differences between the two features. The table below summarizes some of the key differences between Instagram Stories and Reels:

FeatureInstagram StoriesInstagram Reels
Video LengthUp to 15 secondsUp to 60 seconds
VisibilityOnly visible to your followersVisible to all users on the platform
Editing ToolsBasic editing toolsAdvanced editing tools
MusicLimited music libraryExtensive music library
DiscoverabilityNot discoverable by non-followersDiscoverable by non-followers
Key Differences between Stories and Reels

Why Use Stories

Instagram Stories are great for sharing your day-to-day activities with your followers. 

Sharing behind the scenes of your business and personal life with your audience is an excellent way for the “know” part of “know like and trust” which if you've been around a minute you know is essential for people to do business with you.

Ask engaging questions, encourage them to send you messages, and take them backstage of your business, messy hair, messy desk- it's a different vibe, than your feed, so be brave knowing they disappear in 24 hours!

It's also a  great place to share promotions or try out new content. 

One of the best practices on your Instagram stories is to utilize the story highlights feature.

Highlights give you the real estate to showcase curated segments of your content right on your profile.

You can group them by themes or topics, and create cohesive highlight covers ​that attract attention.

If I was utilizing highlights for my business, they would be:

Trends, Memes, Client Wins, Myth Busters, Platform plays, Lessons Learned, Resources, Tools of the trade.

Instagram stories vs reels. Highlight covers for my Instagram as a social media strategist.

Why use Instagram Reels 

People lost their minds when Adam Mosseri said “We're no longer just a square photo-sharing app.”

Instagram Stories vs. Reels 
Adam Mosseri famous "we are no longer a photo sharing app" announcement

Instagram users quickly learned that to have their content be shared they would have to adopt short-form video because that's what's being favored by the infamous algorithm.

The good news is the possibilities are endless and reels are currently the best way to get in front of a new audience. 

You can showcase your business in fun and creative ways, reach entirely new audiences, remain competitive in the market, boost your engagement, and overall it's a cost-effective market strategy.

Keep in mind that regardless of what type of short-form video content you're sharing  your target audience should always be top of mind,  

Content-Type

The main difference between Instagram Stories and Reels is the kind of content they allow you to create.

Instagram Stories are designed for short, casual updates that disappear after 24 hours, to engage and to let your followers get to know you in a more casual and personal way. 

On the other hand, Reels are more focused on creating entertaining and informative videos that can stay on your profile for a longer period of time, strategically showing Instagram users what you do, who you serve, and what problems you solve. 

Video Length

Stories are up to 15 seconds while Reels can be up to 60 (90 for some)  seconds long, which gives you more time to showcase your creativity and share more information with your audience.

However, unless you've got a video that will keep people watching for a full 60 seconds, it's best to start with 15-second videos, because the algorithm (ugh with this) wants to see viewers watch all or most of your video.

Audience Reach

Again, Stories are only seen by your followers but Reels can be discovered by a wider audience on the Reels tab. This means that Reels are a great way to reach new audiences and increase your brand awareness on Instagram.

Reels are the easiest way to get new followers which is the biggest difference, between the two. 

Hashtags

Using hashtags should be strategic.

Research what hashtags your ideal clients are following and incorporate a few in there. you can use up to 30 for reels. 

​Using relevant hashtags is a good idea for stories because it's the one way to make them visible beyond your followers, and the limit is 10.

Story Ideas: 

For Stories, you can post behind-the-scenes footage, share user-generated content, or give your audience a sneak peek of upcoming products or services. You can also use the “swipe up” (if available) feature to drive traffic to your website or blog.

Instagram stories vs. reels An Instagram Story I shared after meeting my mentor Rachel Pedersen at Social Media Marketing World!
My story after meeting my mentor Rachel Pedersen at Social Media Marketing World! What a delight she is!

Reel Ideas

For Reels, you can create short-form videos that showcase your brand's personality and originality. Use original audio, add text overlays, and use hashtags to increase discoverability.

You can also collaborate with other creators or brands to reach a wider audience.

Use trending music and videos incorporating your niche, do skits, a talking head type video, share tips, lip-synch, dance, you know all the wild and crazy things that a lot of us don't want to do!

Pro Tip

If you're thinking you have to sing, dance or make an ass of yourself- you don't! You can create reels without even being on camera! This is your sign to start making reels and not excuses. 🥰

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I post a Reel on Instagram?

To post a Reel on Instagram, open the Instagram app and swipe right from your feed to access the camera. Then, select the “Reels” option at the bottom of the screen. You can record a new video or upload a pre-recorded one from your camera roll. Once you've edited your Reel, you can add a caption, and hashtags, and share it with your followers.

Can I post an Instagram Reel without it appearing on my feed?

Yes, you can post an Instagram Reel without it appearing on your feed. When you share your Reel, you can choose to share it to your Reels tab only, or to both your Reels tab and your feed. If you only share it to your Reels tab, it won't appear on your profile grid or in your followers' feeds.

What is the difference between Instagram Reels and Stories?

Instagram Reels are short-form videos that are up to 60 seconds long and are permanently on your profile. They are similar to TikTok videos and are designed to be entertaining and shareable. Instagram Stories, on the other hand, are temporary posts that disappear after 24 hours. They are typically used to share everyday moments and behind-the-scenes content.

Can I add both Reels and Stories to my profile highlights?

You can add Stories to your profile highlights, allowing them to be viewed even after the 24-hour period. Reels, however, have their own dedicated space on your profile, separate from Stories and highlights.

How do I add music to my Instagram Story?

To add music to your Instagram Story, open the Instagram app and swipe right from your feed to access the camera. Then, select the “Music” option at the bottom of the screen. You can search for a song or browse popular options. Once you've selected a song, you can adjust the length and position of the clip, and add stickers or text if desired.

Are Instagram Reels better than regular posts?

It depends on your goals and the type of content you're sharing. Instagram Reels are a great way to reach a wider audience and potentially go viral, but they may not be the best option for showcasing your brand or business in a professional manner. Regular posts are better for more polished, high-quality content, but they may not have the same potential for virality as Reels. Ultimately, it's up to you to decide which format is best for your content and goals.

Key Takeaways

Using Instagram Stories and Reels effectively can help you increase engagement, reach, and brand awareness on the platform.

Use your Instagram strategy as a guide and create content that will add value to your audience. Invite your followers behind the scenes by using stories, and show them your brand, expertise, and creativity with Reels. Finally, create a cohesive and recognizable brand aesthetic to build brand awareness on Instagram.

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