Mastering B-Roll for Effortless Instagram Reels
Creating content for Instagram can be exhausting, but getting smarter about the types of reels you create can help avoid burnout. This is why Mastering B-Roll for effortless Instagram Reels is key to saving time.
This B-roll guide will help you create effortless reels that will make you stand out in seconds.
What is B-Roll in Instagram Reels?
In traditional film, B-roll would be filmed and added to the gaps between the main scenes to help add depth and context to the story, some examples are below:
- establishing shots of locations
- close-ups of objects or details
- shots of people or actions, scenic views
- anything else that adds depth and visual appeal to the video
However, in Instagram Reels b-roll footage tends to be a short behind-the-scenes clip that is used as the background of your video with text overlaid. An example of this is me typing on my laptop:
These reels are quick and easy to create, often taking just a few minutes. The key is to include valuable content in both the video and the caption.
Capturing B-Roll Footage
B-roll is easy to capture, in fact, you probably already have some clips on your phone you can use. They are straightforward, short clips without fancy effects. The best clips to capture are everyday activities related to your niche. To help you capture B-roll I recommend using a tripod and experiment shooting an activity from different angles.
Top tip - Take inspiration from the list below and have a batch-recording session
How long should B-Roll clips be?
I suggest that your B-roll clips are between 6-15 seconds. Since B-roll is a brief clip, it’s ideal to pair it with content like a quote, quick tips, or similar easily digestible information. You can always direct your audience to read more in the caption.
Top tip: When recording ensure there’s some negative space next to or around the action where you can add your text where it can be read easily
Example B-Roll clips to shoot
Here's a handy list of ideas for clips to shoot and save to your camera roll for quick and easy reel creation:
- Clip of you writing in a planner, notebook, or whiteboard
- Clip of your morning routine
- Clip of you at your workspace/packing orders
- Clip of you closing or opening your laptop
- Clip of you going for a walk
- Clip of you sipping your favourite drink
- Clip of you talking to clients / on the phone
- Clip of you in action behind the scenes
How to structure a B-Roll Reel
The best way to structure a B-roll Instagram reel can be accomplished in four quick steps:
- Record a 6-15-second video
- Attach trending audio.
- Add a hook.
- Include valuable content in both the reel and the caption.
So remember, the next time you feel overwhelmed with posting a reel, just grab some B-roll, add some value to it, and hit post!
