I’m creating my best Instagram roles with Canva: Here’s how

Even though I don’t make Instagram reels as much as I used to, creating them in Canva always produces the best results. Here’s how I use the app to create my best content; feel free to follow and adapt these steps for your own creations.

1 Choosing the right template for Instagram reels

While you can start with a blank canvas, I prefer to use a template for my reels. Using something that is pre-designed makes it easier for me to think about how I want my ideas to come to life, even though you may be different; it’s worth experimenting with the presets and starting over to see which one works best for you.

After selecting a blank Instagram Reel template, you will be redirected to a page with more templates. Some of these are only available with a Canva Pro subscription, but you can also enjoy a number of free options. I usually think about the type of mood I’m trying to create; if I want my Reel to be cozy, I choose warmer tones. However, if adventure is the goal, I will shake.

While you can change the font (as I’ll discuss later), it’s a good idea to choose a coil that has something similar to what you want the end result to be. For this Reel I chose one with a more fall theme; as soon as I select something and expand the dropdown, I select Customize this template.

2 Editing my videos in Canva

I’ve already talked in depth about how I use Canva to edit videos on my smartphone, and I’m not doing much different here for Reels. I think about what types of colors I want in my shots, and I usually turn down the sound as well (unless it’s absolutely necessary).

Sometimes I add effects to my videos, but it will depend on the individual circumstances. Once I’ve finished the basic adjustments, I’ll also trim the yardage so I’m happy with everything included. Note that I haven’t changed the text yet, mainly because it’s easier to sort videos than edit anything else.

While you can add sound effects in Canva, I usually prefer to add music to my Reels when I’m in the Instagram app. This way I can use official tracks and not rely on music that can sometimes feel quite generic. Again, though, it’s worth experimenting here, as you can do most of the audio editing in Canva.

Before creating reels on any platform, it’s worth checking out this complete guide to Instagram videos; all your pressing questions are answered here.

3 Editing the fonts and colors of my reel

It’s easier to adjust the colors and fonts first before adding text to my reel. You can choose from several free Canva fonts, and if you have a premium subscription, you have even more options. I usually prefer minimalist fonts that look quite elegant, but I also like to experiment and adapt when needed.

I wanted to tweak the font of this Reel a bit and didn’t want it to be italic anymore. I also changed the color from yellow to black because it was hard to see the text. For this reason I also moved the text boxes and removed some others that appeared.

When editing fonts and colors, you should also resize the text so that it catches the eye. If it is too small, users will have trouble reading it. And if the text is too big, it will look sloppy.

4 Make sure the text enhances the story

I don’t think it’s mandatory to add text to your Instagram reels, and I really don’t like it when creators add things to their content for the sake of it. I therefore try to use text sparingly; it should explain what the reel is about and provide minimal additional information.

If necessary, you can share the text on multiple parts of the coil. For example, when recapping a trip, you can share where you’ve uploaded videos so others can bookmark your suggestions.

In this example, I just wanted to share what Reel is all about; this was a quick recap for my close friends and family. If I created it on my public account that I use for my blog, I would probably go into the details.

Depending on the amount of text you have, you may need to adjust the placement and size of the text further. It’s worth experimenting to see what works best for you.

5 Using high quality videos from my smartphone

I could use videos from my mirrorless camera in Canva, but they are often time consuming to transfer. Also, I have more customization of smartphone videos than camera files. But most importantly, I use high-quality videos when taking smartphone shots.

Since I have an iPhone, I like to shoot most of my videos in Cinematic mode. This means I can adjust the aperture, which makes it much easier to achieve the desired depth of content. I’ll also sometimes use filters on my rig to add some initial adjustments, and I’ve changed my settings to record footage in 4K at 60fps.

Even if your smartphone doesn’t have the highest quality video, maximizing is still a good idea. 1080p will work for good video content in most cases and you should also focus on your subject. It’s wise to think about what you’re going to shoot in advance, and you can use storyboarding apps to visualize your ideas.

6 Adding more videos and photos to my reel

You can get super creative with reels. For example, you can add more than one video to the same page by selecting a slide (from Elements) that has more than one video slot. In addition, you can also insert images.

Another potential option is to add one video and one image to sections of your reel; it’s worth a try especially if you like to take pictures. Many of the frames available don’t require a Canva Pro subscription, so you can find out which ones work best with your videos.

7 Including CTAs

Adding a call to action (CTA) is important if you want people to take action. You can include it in your Instagram caption; something like “click the link in my bio” or “check out my page for more” will work fine. However, you can add calls to action in Canva.

You can always create a new text box to add a call to action in Canva. Adding an emoticon can draw attention (if used sparingly), so you should consider that as well.

Canva is one of my favorite apps for creating Instagram reels, and I follow the same process for most of my videos. Even though I’m experimenting with different frames and such, following this workflow at least makes everything easier to navigate. If you don’t know where to start, I recommend using the tips you’ve learned today and building from there.