One of the best ways to gain more exposure to new audiences on Instagram is using reels. However, not everyone is comfortable on camera. So how can you create more video content, and make use of this engaging content form without having to be on camera yourself?
Here are 7 reels you can create without showing your face:
1. Before and After
An easy Instagram reel you can create without having to be on camera is before and after.
This type of video showcases a transformation that has taken place.
This can be utilising photos or videos for the before and after designs. In this example, Becky has showcased how a simple bit of editing can bring a massive difference to a photo.
There are many businesses that can use this reel idea. For example, you could show a before and after of your clients or a before and after of you creating a product or a before and after of something that you created for a client.
2. Motivational quotes
Motivational quotes have always worked well for engagement on social media, so why should Instagram reels be any different. An easy Instagram reel you can create without having to show your face on camera is creating a motivational quote video.
This can be done quite quickly by creating it all in Canva. You can add some simple animation steps and even add stock video (all included within Canva like this example by Get Down to Business Club
3. Work in progress / Behind the scenes
These types of videos are great for engagement as people love all kinds of behind the scenes videos. You don't need to be on camera but you can add a simple voiceover if you want to explain more, simply narrating what's happening on the screen with your voice. Artist Jan Sherwood has opted for some beautiful background music and spliced some in-action shots together to show how she makes her Our World Prints.
4. Packing orders
If you create products and package that product to ship them to your customers, you can actually film the packaging of that product without your face on camera.
This example by New Forest Tea Company has been filmed where just hands are in the shot:
5. Writing on sticky notes / in a notebook
An easy Instagram reel you can create without having to be on camera is writing in a notebook / whiteboard or sticky notes and then speeding that up with an app like InShot
Anyone can use this reel idea. For example, you could share tips, motivational quotes, ask questions... if you can write it you can create it!
6. Timelapse
Creating a time-lapse on iPhone is just as easy as recording a video.
Here’s how to make a time-lapse video on your iPhone:
- Open the Camera app.
- Swipe through the options at the bottom of the screen until you get to Time Lapse.
- Press the red record button to start.
- Press the red record button to finish the recording.
This is a great type of content you can create to show the process of making something, the process of cleaning something up, or the process of something going on.
A couple of things to keep in mind when you're recording a time-lapse on iPhone:
- Use a tripod or a stand. For best results, the iPhone should be in the same place the entire time.
- Give it time. Filming for about 30 minutes will give you plenty of video to play with. Unless of course the transformation you are showing is longer and then you need to record for the length of your transformation and then speed up the final video.
You can create a time-lapse video and add music in reels to create an Instagram reel without having to be on camera. Here's an example by Matt Callaghan.
7. Screen recording
An easy Instagram reel you can create without having to be on camera is recording your screen and showing how to do something. You can choose to add music or a voiceover narrating the steps. Then you don't have to show your face on camera at all!
Making faceless reels is an option for all businesses. If you don't want to put yourself in front of the camera as these options show there is still a way to harness the Instagram algorithm and create Instagram reels.
