Instagram Video Length: Everything a Creator Needs to Know

Instagram has evolved beyond just a photo-sharing platform. And even though the folks at Instagram have told us they don't have plans to turn the app into a video-focused platform, it's hard to overstate the impact of Reels, Stories, and in-feed videos. 

Since the app has rolled out a bunch of updates to its video-sharing limits, you might be wondering, "How long can be video on Instagram?" Don't stress! While the platform supports a bunch of different video formats, the rules are pretty simple. 

Here's everything you need to know if you're planning on sharing plenty of cool clips on the app. 

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Instagram Feed Videos: The Standard Format

Instagram feed videos, or in-feed videos for short, are the classic video format you'll find in users' main feeds. These videos have gone through a few changes over the years when it comes to their maximum duration limits. But here are the current ones:

• Maximum length: 60 minutes
• Minimum length requirement: 3 seconds
• Preview length in feed: 60 seconds

When sharing longer videos, remember that users will see a 60-second preview before deciding whether to play the full video. So, the first minute is key in grabbing their attention.

Here are a few tips for in-feed videos:

• Make sure the first 3-5 seconds of your video grab people's attention. 
• Include captions for easier access. 
• Optimize your video thumbnail to make it stand out on feeds.

Instagram Stories

Instagram Stories are one of the platform's most popular ways to share quick, engaging video content, but it's important to keep in mind that there are time limitations for Stories:

• Maximum video Instagram length: 60 seconds per story
• Segment breaks: Videos longer than 60 seconds are automatically split
• Visibility duration: 24 hours (unless added to Highlights)

Tip: If you upload a video that's longer than 60 seconds, Instagram will automatically split it up into segments of 1 minute each. So it's important that when you're planning your content, you think about how it will fit into those time slots.

Instagram Video Duration Limit: Reels

Reels are Instagram's way of meeting the increasing demand for short-form video content. These videos come in different specs:

• Maximum duration: 3 minutes
• Optimal length for engagement: 15-30 seconds
• Minimum length: 3 seconds

The secret to a winning Reel is knowing not just how many seconds you have, but also how long to hold people's attention. You can make Reels up to 3 minutes long, but shorter videos often get better engagement and keep people watching longer.

Instagram Live: For Those Who Want to Go All Out

• Maximum video length Instagram Live: 4 hours
• Archive availability: 30 days
• Replay options: Save to your camera roll

When you're planning an Instagram Live session, think about splitting longer streams into smaller segments to keep your viewers engaged. This way, you can avoid fatigue while making sure your content has the biggest impact possible.

After the session, you’ll have the option of saving the video to your phone’s camera roll. You can also share a live broadcast from your archive with your viewers. 

Instagram Video Ads

If your business uses the app's advertising platform, you'll need to keep a few things in mind when it comes to video Instagram length.

• In-feed video ads: Up to 60 seconds
• Story ads: 15-second segments
• Reels ads: Up to 30 seconds

The length of your videos should vary depending on where you're placing them. If you're running a story ad that's longer than 15 seconds, it'll be automatically split into smaller segments. On the other hand, if you're posting to the feed, it's best to keep your videos short and sweet to keep people engaged.

The Technical Info You Need to Know

1. Video Resolution:some text
   • Minimum: 1080 x 1080 pixels
   • Aspect ratios: 1:1, 4:5, 16:9 (depending on format)
2. File Size Limits:some text
   • Maximum file size: 4GB
   • Recommended bitrate: 3500 kbps
3. Supported Formats:some text
   • MP4
   • MOV
   • GIF (for Reels and Stories)

Tips for Making the Most of Video Instagram Length

If you want to succeed on Instagram, you need to think more than just about staying within length limits. You also have to optimize your content for maximum engagement.

Attention Span Considerations

• Make sure you get your most important information across right away. 
• Use strong hooks in the first three seconds. 
• Don't forget to include clear calls to action.

Choosing the Right Format

Not sure what video format to use for your specific content? Here are a few things that you might want to consider (however, remember that all the formats are not mutually exclusive):

Reels:

• Highest potential for viral reach due to the algorithm favoring short-form video content
• Appears in multiple places (Reels tab, feed, Explore page)
• Great for reaching new audiences beyond your followers
• Ideal for trending content, tutorials, and entertainment

Stories:

• Perfect for time-sensitive or behind-the-scenes content
• High engagement from existing followers
• Good for interactive features (polls, questions, links)
• Less pressure for high production value
• 24-hour lifespan creates urgency

In-feed videos:

• More permanent than Stories
• Shows up directly in followers' feeds
• Better for longer, more detailed content
• Good for polished, brand-focused videos

The "best" format really depends on your goals:

• Building audience → Reels
• Engaging existing followers → Stories
• Creating lasting content → In-feed videos

Become an Instagram Video Pro with BigMotion

Knowing Instagram video time limit is incredibly important. But learning how to make the most out of every second of the clip can be challenging and too time-consuming.

Luckily, BigMotion has an AI-powered solution that's a game-changer for creators on Instagram. With our platform, you can:

• Generate unique video content in minutes
• Access high-quality AI voiceovers powered by ElevenLabs
• Automatically add captions and background music
• Create videos optimized for Instagram's various formats
• Maintain consistent posting schedules with auto-publishing features (coming soon)

Transform your Instagram video strategy with AI-powered creativity. Start with our free trial – no credit card required!