How do I make Reels without showing my face?
Just to be clear, I totally understand if you don’t want to film yourself to promote your business. Sharing photos of yourself is hard enough, but videos are next level. Just because it doesn’t come naturally to you doesn’t mean you have to be missing out on the benefits that Reels can (still) bring to your account in 2023!
In recent months, Instagram recognized they might have pushed Reels a bit too much on their users, removing focus from photo posts. A lot of people are hoping non-video posts are having a comeback (as am I!) but in the meantime, Reels continue to be the best way to reach accounts outside of your following.
But you don’t want to show your face.
That’s cool. Here’s what you can do instead:
Use stock video. I love this option when my clients aren’t able to provide behind-the-scenes content for me to share (e.g. a therapy practice). There are plenty of free (and paid) video resources available all over now - think Canva, Storyblocks, or Shutterstock. Use with a trending audio from Instagram and your best tips or most popular captions as overlay text. You don’t even have to use your voice, unless you want to.
2. Film everything else. Maybe other people involved in your business don’t mind being on camera? Or maybe you’re ok showing your hands while you’re working, just not your face… You might still find content to film around you, even if you’ve decided not to be on camera yourself. Even random footage can be used if you’re resourceful (see no. 3 and 4 below).
3. Use templates. While scrolling through Instagram Reels, have you notice a prompt reading “Use Template”? This should come in handy. You can use this option with random behind the scene clips and even images from your camera roll, and the results will automatically look polished.
4. Tweets and quotes. These have been an Instagram user favorite in the past few years, whether on video or static posts. Take a screenshot of a relatable tweet, a quote, or even a list in your Notes app, and paste it over (pretty much) any moving background - it doesn't get easier than that! Of course, you can design your own if you’re into that and want to keep in line with your branding.
5. User generated content. Oh, the possibilities! If you’re working with influencers or your product is already popular enough to be shared on Instagram, you’re in luck: this is social media gold! Alternatively, you can screenshot customer reviews and share them as described above at no. 4. Either way, make sure you get permission from the creators before sharing their content on your account.
6. Slideshow. If it moves, it’s a Reel! Combine photos and texts in a dynamic slideshow, and use (Canva) transitions to make it look fancier. This can also be done with templates, as described above under no. 3.
7. …and if he still doesn’t answer? Get help. Having a business is hard, but filming Reels to promote it might just be the hardest part :) Consider outsourcing your social media to take the issue off your hands. You can easily contact me if you decide to take the plunge 👇