How to Post a Video on Instagram Without It Being a Reel: A Guide to Navigating the Algorithmic Maze

Instagram has evolved significantly since its inception, and with the introduction of Reels, the platform has become a hub for short-form video content. However, not all users want their videos to be categorized as Reels. Whether it’s for aesthetic reasons, content strategy, or simply personal preference, there are ways to post a video on Instagram without it being automatically classified as a Reel. This article will explore various methods and considerations to help you achieve this.

Understanding Instagram’s Video Formats

Before diving into the specifics, it’s essential to understand the different video formats Instagram supports:

1. Feed Videos: These are standard videos that appear in your followers’ feeds. They can be up to 60 seconds long and are not automatically categorized as Reels.
2. Reels: These are short, engaging videos that can be up to 90 seconds long. They are designed to be discoverable through Instagram’s Explore page and are often accompanied by music or other creative elements.
3. IGTV: This format allows for longer videos, up to 60 minutes for verified accounts and 10 minutes for regular users. IGTV videos are displayed in a separate section of your profile.
4. Stories: These are short, ephemeral videos that disappear after 24 hours. They are ideal for quick updates or behind-the-scenes content.

Why Avoid Reels?

There are several reasons why you might want to post a video without it being a Reel:

• Content Control: Reels are designed to be highly engaging and often include music, effects, and other elements that might not align with your content strategy.
• Algorithmic Differences: Reels are prioritized in Instagram’s algorithm, which might not be ideal if you want your video to appear in your followers’ feeds rather than the Explore page.
• Aesthetic Consistency: If your Instagram feed has a specific aesthetic, Reels might disrupt that consistency.

Methods to Post a Video Without It Being a Reel

1. Uploading Directly to Your Feed

The simplest way to post a video without it being a Reel is to upload it directly to your feed. Here’s how:

1. Open Instagram: Launch the Instagram app on your mobile device.
2. Tap the ‘+’ Icon: This is located at the bottom center of the screen.
3. Select ‘Post’: Choose the option to create a new post.
4. Choose Your Video: Select the video you want to upload from your gallery.
5. Edit and Customize: Add filters, captions, and other elements as desired.
6. Post: Once you’re satisfied, tap ‘Share’ to post the video to your feed.

2. Using IGTV for Longer Videos

If your video is longer than 60 seconds, consider using IGTV. Here’s how:

1. Open Instagram: Launch the Instagram app.
2. Tap the ‘+’ Icon: This is located at the bottom center of the screen.
3. Select ‘IGTV Video’: Choose the option to upload a video to IGTV.
4. Choose Your Video: Select the video you want to upload from your gallery.
5. Add Details: Include a title, description, and cover image for your video.
6. Post: Tap ‘Post’ to upload the video to IGTV.

3. Adjusting Video Length

Instagram automatically categorizes videos longer than 15 seconds as Reels. To avoid this, ensure your video is 15 seconds or shorter. Here’s how:

1. Edit Your Video: Use a video editing tool to trim your video to 15 seconds or less.
2. Upload to Feed: Follow the steps outlined in the “Uploading Directly to Your Feed” section.

4. Using Third-Party Apps

There are several third-party apps that allow you to upload videos to Instagram without them being classified as Reels. These apps often provide additional editing features and customization options. Some popular options include:

• InShot: A versatile video editor that allows you to trim, cut, and adjust video length.
• Canva: Known for its design capabilities, Canva also offers video editing tools.
• Adobe Premiere Rush: A professional-grade video editing app that provides advanced features.

5. Posting as a Story

If your video is short and you don’t mind it being ephemeral, consider posting it as a Story. Here’s how:

1. Open Instagram: Launch the Instagram app.
2. Tap the ‘+’ Icon: This is located at the top left corner of the screen.
3. Select ‘Story’: Choose the option to create a new Story.
4. Choose Your Video: Select the video you want to upload from your gallery.
5. Add Effects: Use Instagram’s built-in effects, stickers, and text to enhance your Story.
6. Post: Tap ‘Your Story’ to share the video.

Considerations and Best Practices

• Content Quality: Regardless of the format, ensure your video is high-quality and aligns with your overall content strategy.
• Engagement: Use captions, hashtags, and tags to increase engagement and reach.
• Consistency: Maintain a consistent posting schedule to keep your audience engaged.
• Analytics: Monitor your video performance using Instagram Insights to understand what works best for your audience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I post a video longer than 60 seconds without it being a Reel?

A1: Yes, you can use IGTV to post longer videos without them being classified as Reels.

Q2: Will my video still appear in my followers’ feeds if I post it as a Story?

A2: No, Stories appear in a separate section at the top of the Instagram app and disappear after 24 hours.

Q3: Can I edit my video after posting it to avoid it being a Reel?

A3: No, once a video is posted, you cannot change its format. You would need to delete the original post and re-upload the video in the desired format.

Q4: Are there any limitations to using third-party apps for video uploads?

A4: While third-party apps offer additional features, they may not always integrate seamlessly with Instagram. Ensure the app you choose is reputable and compatible with Instagram’s guidelines.

Q5: How can I ensure my video doesn’t get categorized as a Reel?

A5: To avoid your video being categorized as a Reel, ensure it is 15 seconds or shorter and upload it directly to your feed or use IGTV for longer videos.

By following these methods and considerations, you can successfully post a video on Instagram without it being automatically classified as a Reel, allowing you to maintain control over your content and its presentation.