Here at Trendspotter, we're all about staying ahead of the curve when it comes to reels trends, and we’ve been posting Reels Templates since the feature debuted in May 2022, and they’ve only gotten better. (If you haven't already, check out my @reelstips Instagram for a ton of templates you can use with trending sounds!). 

So what exactly are Reels Templates? Basically they are a super easy and super quick way to create Reels with a specific audio. Creators can make their reel a “template” to line up their video clips perfectly with the beat of the music, so all you need to do is just plug-and-play by uploading your own content. And now, text and effects are also integrated in Reels Templates. 

Just look for the “Use Template” button when you’re on Reels:

Why should I use Reels Templates? First and foremost, they're the ultimate time-saver. Say goodbye to endless hours adjusting clip lengths and perfecting those transitions. With a template, the hard work is done for you, freeing up precious time for your next creative project or recording more fun-filled videos.

But it doesn't stop there! Reels templates are your secret weapon for boosting your Instagram visibility. When you create a template, your username is shown on every reel created with your template, giving you more exposure.

Templates also give your content quality a major boost—no more split-second hiccups or timing blunders. You can be as precise and professional as a video-editing whiz, without needing to be one! 

Recently, Instagram launched a new Templates Browser to help you find inspiration when you don’t know what to post. I absolutely LOVE this feature because it’s made creating Reels so much more accessible to anyone who is intimidated by video editing. 

This is kind of a hidden feature, but you can access it by going to create a reel, and then clicking on the “Templates button.” Here you’ll find Reels templates in different categories, like 'Recommended' and 'Trending,' and you can even find templates for audios you have saved!

The best part? All the details are customizable, so you can make them your own. For example, if a template has overlay text in it, you will be able to edit the text to make the concept fit your niche. Plus, Instagram is actively adding templates to their collections - we had one of our templates featured and raked in an extra 10k views on a reel! 

By streamlining your Reels creation process, you'll have the freedom to produce more high-quality content. Staying ahead of the trends and staying on your audience's radar has never been this easy! 

My Favourite Tip for Saving Audio

If you love saving audios from this newsletter, let me introduce you to my fave hack: instead of clicking the “save audio” button, create a saved album of reels instead! I prefer to use this method because you’ll have a visual reference to match the audio, instead of being left wondering what “originalaudio_rando204” is and why you saved it in the first place.

Here’s what you’re going to do:

• To save audio for your Reels feed, tap the '...' icon at the bottom right of your screen.

• Choose 'Save' and create a folder named 'Reels Audio.’ This way, you can open the album and scroll through examples of all the content you saved when you need to decide what to film or edit. 

• When you’re reading this newsletter, just click on any of the “content inspo” examples and save the reel to your Instagram album! Easy-peasy! 🎶📁📲

And hey, if you're looking to become a Reels expert, brace yourself because The Reels Course 2.0 is launching soon - and this time we’re bringing in the best creators, editors, and social marketers as guest speakers! Click here to join the waitlist 👀