More News From Instagram: Longer Videos for Users

More News From Instagram: Longer Videos for Users

I'm sure you're all fatiguing a bit with the Instagram news lately, but this time, it is positive. Since its introduction in June 2013, video on the social media platform has been a success, especially for advertisers. Recently, they appealed to more advertisers by switching from video "likes" to video views. Now, the platform has announced they are extending the video duration allowed extensively. 

https://vimeo.com/160762565

"We want to bring you fun, flexible, and creative ways to create and watch video on Instagram. As part of our continued commitment, you’ll soon have the flexibility to tell your story in up to 60 seconds of video. This is one step of many you’ll see this year."

Adding 60-second video clips could be a potential game changer, as Instagram claims there has been a 40 percent increase in people watching video. Another great addition that I personally look forward to is the ability to make videos from multiple clips in your camera roll (iOS only). The ability to stitch together videos becomes an easier method without having to use third-party apps. 

What does this mean? My personal opinion is Instagram is starting to take a page out of Snapchat's book. Storytelling has become more crucial for advertisers and small businesses to market their brands than ever before, and I believe Instagram is starting to position themselves in this fashion. 

What are your thoughts on this update?

Nick Pecori's picture

Nick Pecori is a Florida-based advertising photographer who has shot for clients Acer, Bealls, Shoe Carnival, the Florida Lottery, etc.

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4 Comments

I think that 60s might be too much for people on Instagram, but I don't mind, I am definitelly going to use minimal of 30s clips :-)

pretty much any video is too much for me lol. I know I am the weirdo though and people love video.

I was hoping for this.I am migrating more and more into video as a story telling adventure. I quit Instagram, the "add me" friends were really, SELLING!. I quite Facebook, so much "noise" for me. I "downgraded" my professional status to "obsessed enthusiast". This decision was based on most of my projects are for fun and free. I have income from other sources. But I am rethinking the whole "deal". Where do I want to share my work? I enjoy feedback and all the "pats on the backs". And yes, what up FS?, How come some of you guys can post more than 10 photos and me with 10...grrrrrrrr, bad PR FS,

Hard to think people will watch for that long with how the Instagram experience works. I think they’re doing it mostly for advertisers so they can stick within the usual 15,30, and 60 second timeframes of most advertisements.

“Hey we have this 60 second commercial for broadcast, let's throw it on Instagram too”

Which is fine, I won’t watch 60 second ads the same way I don’t watch the 15 second ones.