How to Make Clips for Instagram Reels: Step-by-Step Guide
To make clips for Instagram Reels, cut 15-60 second vertical videos with captions, a strong hook, and a clear payoff. Here’s how to create Reels-ready clips from longer videos.

1. Choose and Prepare Your Source Video
Select the longer video you want to clip. This could be a podcast, interview, livestream, or lecture. Make sure your footage is high quality and that the best moments are easy to identify.
2. Identify the Best Moments
- Look for sections with a strong opening line that grabs attention.
- Pick clips with a clear message, story, or payoff within 15-60 seconds.
- Note timestamps of these moments, or use an AI clipping tool like Vidulk to automatically find highlights.
3. Reframe and Edit for Vertical Format
- Instagram Reels require a 9:16 vertical aspect ratio. Crop or reframe your footage so the subject stays centered.
- If your source video is horizontal, use editing software or Vidulk’s AI to automatically reframe to vertical.
4. Add Captions and Polish
- Bold, accurate captions increase engagement and accessibility.
- Use clear, readable fonts and keep text within safe margins.
- Consider adding trending audio if it fits your content, but ensure you have rights to use it.
5. Export and Upload
- Export your clip in high quality with a vertical 9:16 aspect ratio.
- Upload to Instagram Reels, add a catchy description, and relevant hashtags.
- Test different clips to see which get the most engagement.
Vidulk can help you streamline this process: paste your long video, let its AI find the best moments, and automatically generate vertical, captioned clips ready for Instagram Reels.
Skip the manual editing - Vidulk's AI finds and cuts the best moments into ready-to-post clips. Free to start.
Try VidulkFAQ
How long should Instagram Reels clips be?
Instagram Reels clips should be between 15 and 60 seconds for best results and maximum reach.
How do I convert horizontal videos to vertical for Reels?
Reframe your footage to a 9:16 aspect ratio, centering the subject. Vidulk can automatically reframe horizontal videos for you.
Do Instagram Reels need captions?
Captions are not required but strongly recommended. They boost engagement and make your content accessible to viewers watching without sound.
Can I make Reels clips from podcasts or interviews?
Yes. You can clip highlights from podcasts, interviews, or lectures. Vidulk can help by automatically identifying and clipping the best moments.
What’s the easiest way to make multiple Reels clips from a long video?
Use an AI video clipping tool like Vidulk to quickly generate several short, vertical, captioned clips from your longer footage.