Content That Hustles For You · · 4 min read

How To Create B-Roll Instagram Reels

How To Create B-Roll Instagram Reels

Fed up of your mum, bestie & your peers being the only ones who see your Instagram content? Then it’s time for a new approach.

Let’s talk: B-Roll Instagram Reels.

(Yes, I said the “R” word, but don’t worry - there’s no dancing required.)

Now, before you dismiss this as just another social media trend, hear me out.

This isn't just another fleeting fad or a strategy more complex than trying to decipher what the hell the “Tower” means in a Tarot card spread for the first time.

Nope, B-Roll Reels are a straightforward way to play nice with the Instagram algorithm, and they're about to become your new best friend in the content creation game.

What the Hell Are B-Roll Instagram Reels Anyway?

Picture this: You're scrolling through Instagram, half-asleep, when suddenly you're mesmerised by a video that's smoother than the plot of your fave rom-com.

There's no talking head, no flashy transitions – just low-key visuals with a snappy text overlay that has you hitting on the caption to read more. That, my friend, is a B-Roll Instagram Reel in all its glory.

B-Roll footage is essentially any video capturing nonspecific, quick action.

It's the filler video, the stuff that sets the scene without being the main event. Think of it as the montage sequence in an action movie – you know, the part where the hero prepares for the big showdown, all set to an epic soundtrack.

But here's where it gets interesting. In B-Roll Reels, this footage becomes the star of the show. You use it as a backdrop and overlay it with text – usually in the form of a hook that's more enticing than the promise of "just one more chapter" in a romantasy novel at 2 AM.

(For the nerdy amongst you, the term "B-Roll" is a relic from the old-school days of linear film editing, In those ancient times, the primary footage was called the "A-Roll," while the supplementary or alternative footage was dubbed the "B-Roll.")

Why You Should Seriously Consider Creating B-Roll Instagram Reels

Now, you might be thinking, "Becky, this sounds great and all, but why should I, a serious business owner short on time, give a damn?"

First off, these bad boys are surprisingly easy to create.

You've probably got a treasure trove of potential B-Roll footage right there on your phone. That video of your cat doing that weird stretchy thing? B-Roll gold.

The clip of that beautiful flower you just had to stop and record? Perfect.

The point is, you don't need to be a professional videographer to create compelling B-Roll.

Secondly, B-Roll Reels let you showcase your brand vibe without saying a word.

You're giving your audience a peek behind the curtain, showing off your style, and communicating your brand essence in a matter of seconds.

But here's the real kicker – the Instagram algorithm loves these things.

Why? Because B-Roll Reels tend to be short and sweet, encouraging viewers to watch them multiple times.

This boosts your watch time and views, which in turn tells Instagram, "Hey, people are digging this content & keeping them on your app - show it to more people!"

If you can crack it, it’s a potential ticket to reaching more people than ever before.