Whether you’re a content creator, brand, or a social media manager,
you probably wish there were more hours in the day to do all that you do. It’s not easy to keep up with the content demands of Instagram’s algorithm (hey Adam Mosseri, can you give us a break?) but one thing is certain: vertical video is key to building a successful content strategy.
Vertical video has been gaining traction over the last few years—but why? Let’s break it down. We know that the vast majority of social media users use these sites on mobile, which means their phones are probably sitting vertically in their hands. Have you ever tried to watch a horizontal or square video on your phone? The visual content is hard to see, and toggling your screen lock and flipping your phone horizontally is usually too much of a nuisance to even bother with, and the data backs that up.
The typical vertical screen size of a smartphone is 9:16, which means when a video is formatted with those dimensions in mind, the video can take up the entire screen, giving the user a better experience and making them far more likely to engage with and watch more of your content.
Now social media apps like Instagram are tailoring feeds to accommodate vertical video thanks to the rise of video-giant TikTok. Listen, we get it, it’s daunting to learn how to produce yet another type of content, but when Instagram tells you that your success on social media depends on it, it’s worthwhile to lean in.
When you join Packsia, you get access to a curated library of beautiful all-vertical video to use in your content strategy. When your content is high quality, your followers will sit up and take notice. So, let’s leave those thick black borders around your video in the past, and get into some ways you can utilize our Motion Packs on Instagram, shall we?
REELS
Touted as the biggest tool for social media marketers to utilize in their Instagram strategy, Reels are a great way to improve audience engagement and brand awareness organically. Since Instagram is still pushing to compete with the likes of TikTok, Reels are still prioritized in the algorithm, making this a perfect sweet spot for getting ahead of your competition.
Packsia is here to help elevate your Reels content in a big way. We love how @cultcreativeagency_ used our Cocktails & Games Motion Pack to build out a brand strategy for a client. By simply adding typeface and strong caption copy, this Reel draws you in and leaves you wanting to know more about the brand. Similarly, artist Mercedes Papalia uses the Floating Florals Pack as a dynamic backdrop to video testimonials from her clients.
With the Cult Creative Agency Reel, the Motion Pack is essential in communicating the vibe of the client. On the other hand, Mercedes Papalia’s use of Social Motion Packs is to elevate content on-hand that aligns with her brand’s visual identity.
STORIES
While Reels are having a true moment in the spotlight, it’s important not to forget the power of Stories. Where Reels can expand reach, Instagram Stories help you communicate with and connect to your existing audience. Think of Reels as a way to draw in a new connection, and Stories as a way to keep them hooked.
One of the most powerful ways to utilize our Motion Packs with Stories is by pairing them with in-app engagement tools. Invite your audience to inquire about your brand with the questions tool and post your favorite responses. Or, create a countdown, a fun quiz, or run a poll. Whatever you choose to utilize, Motion Packs offer high quality backgrounds that make these stories more interesting for your viewers.
Motion Packs can also be used in Story highlights for content you want to keep for longer than a 24-hour period. Our Motion Packs make the perfect background to FAQs, AMAs, and even for UGC resharing.
PAID ADS
Video ads receive 38% more engagement than photos since they give you a better opportunity to provide clearer messaging to your targeted audience. If you haven’t started working video into your strategy, our Motion Packs are a great place to start.
Since testimonial advertising continues to perform well in paid ads, especially when paired with beautiful visuals, now’s your chance to create a punchy ad on Instagram by using a neutral, but visually intriguing video, like one from our Dancing Fabrics Pack and overlaying real customer testimonials overtop. Give it a shot!
A good brand isn’t just one that sells products and services, it’s just as much about the lifestyle and story that surrounds those products and services. If you remember to use high-quality video as a compelling way to communicate your brand story, you’ll have a solid step up against your competitors on Instagram.
Let us know if you try any of these tips!
