All courses Social Media Marketing

Instagram · Lesson 22 of 43

Other Video Options

Along with Reels, there are other video options on the platform, such as longer videos and live broadcasts.

1 Learn the concept

Along with Reels, there are other video options on the platform, such as longer videos and live broadcasts. Each has a different purpose and audience. This lesson explains when to use each format so you can choose the one that fits your message, rather than using the same format every time.

A table comparing short, longer and live video formatsCHOOSING A VIDEO FORMATFormatBest forTypical lengthShort vertical videoDiscovery and quick ideasUnder a minuteLonger videoTutorials and storiesSeveral minutesLive videoReal-time questions andeventsPlanned session
Different formats do different jobs.

2 See it in action

  • Short video suits discovery and quick ideas.
  • Longer video suits tutorials and stories.
  • Live suits real-time questions and events.
  • Match the format to your goal and your resources.

Worked example

A coach's video plan

Reels: weekly tips to attract new people.

Longer video: monthly full workouts for followers who want depth.

Live: a monthly Q&A to answer questions in real time.

Result to look for: each format has a clear job and the audience knows what to expect.

3 Study an example

Example scenario

A coach uses Reels for tips, longer video for full workouts and a monthly live Q&A to answer questions. Each format has a clear job.

4 Apply it and download

  1. List your video goals.
  2. Match each to a format.
  3. Add them to your content calendar.

Worksheet 30-day content calendarOpen, print or save as PDF

Ready to get started?

Businesses get matched with vetted marketing interns. Interns get real experience and a mentor. Pick your path and get started in minutes.