New Instagram feature: Reels Templates

When I first heard about Instagram Reels Templates, I had the impression, you could use your previous Reels as templates, so I couldn’t understand why this feature wasn’t coming up on my own.

It turns out this is because templates are only available for Reels with multiple clips that have been edited together within Instagram.

If a video has been fully edited outside of the app, Instagram cannot identify the different time stamps for each clip.

I typically make my Reels in TikTok (because I find it easier to use), screen record my drafts, then add captions using a tool called Kapwing – before bringing them over to Instagram. Sometimes I also do some editing with an app called Inshot.

Which probably explains why I can’t find any templates for my own Reels. But knowing I can ‘template’ my Reels (and rinse and repeat video formats that work) might make me more likely to create Reels inside the app.

An article I read in Social Media Today highlights the risks for copying other creators’ content and recommends making sure you don’t copy frame for frame and always attribute credit where relevant.

Personally, I’d recommend tagging creators whose templates you’ve used – just to be on the safe side.

Aside from that I personally wonder if templates could stifle creativity on the platform. Although there’s no evidence of that on TikTok, I feel this could be a danger on Instagram – particularly for the business community – where I feel people sometimes just want to ‘get it done’ rather than be creative.

If you want to know more about upcoming Instagram changes/updates check out Instagram Updates for March You’ll Love.

And if you need ideas for Instagram Reels check out: 4 Instagram Reels anyone can create and How to find trending sounds/effects for Instagram Reels.

I publish an episode every month or so about Instagram updates, so do make sure you subscribe so you don’t miss an episode.