IGTV: Everything You Need To Know

Get insights into IGTV, Instagram's platform for longer-form video content, allowing creators to share in-depth stories and connect with their audience.

What is IGTV and how does it differ from regular Instagram posts?

IGTV, or Instagram TV, is a feature on Instagram that allows users to upload and share long-form videos, which can be up to 60 minutes long for larger accounts, and up to 10 minutes for smaller accounts. This contrasts with regular Instagram posts, which are limited to 60 seconds for videos within the feed. IGTV provides a platform for more in-depth content, akin to a personal channel for each user, where influencers and creators can engage with their audience through more comprehensive video content. It supports vertical and horizontal video formats, catering to mobile-first users and providing a more immersive viewing experience.

Examples of IGTV content include mini-documentaries, tutorial series, and extended vlogs. Influencers often use IGTV for content that requires more time to delve into subjects, such as behind-the-scenes looks, interviews, or product demonstrations.

How can influencers optimize their use of IGTV?

Influencers can optimize their IGTV content by focusing on high-quality production, engaging storytelling, and consistency. Utilizing strong titles, descriptions, and relevant hashtags can improve discoverability. Cross-promoting IGTV videos on Instagram stories or the main feed can drive traffic to the IGTV content. Additionally, engaging with the audience through comments and direct messages can help maintain a loyal viewer base. Influencers should also analyze their IGTV insights to understand viewer preferences and adjust their content strategy accordingly.

For instance, an influencer might notice that how-to videos garner more views and engagement, prompting them to create more tutorial-based content. Collaborations with other influencers or brands on IGTV can also expand reach and cross-pollinate audiences.

What are the best practices for creating engaging IGTV content?

Creating engaging IGTV content involves a mix of creativity, strategy, and understanding of the audience. Best practices include starting videos with a captivating hook to grab attention, maintaining a consistent posting schedule, and ensuring content aligns with the influencer's brand and audience interests. High-quality visuals and sound are crucial, as is a clear call-to-action, such as encouraging viewers to comment or share the video. Storytelling is key; content that tells a story or takes viewers on a journey tends to perform better in terms of engagement and retention.

An example of engaging IGTV content could be a series where an influencer takes viewers through a "day in the life" or challenges themselves to try something new each week, keeping the audience invested in their journey and coming back for more.

Dos and Don'ts of IGTV

Do's

Do create content that is authentic and resonates with your audience to keep them engaged.
Do use high-quality visuals and audio to ensure your IGTV videos are professional and enjoyable to watch.
Do include a clear call-to-action in your videos to guide your viewers on what to do next, whether it's to like, comment, or follow.

Don'ts

Don't overlook the importance of a captivating cover photo and title for your IGTV video, as they are crucial for first impressions.
Don't ignore the analytics; use IGTV insights to understand your audience better and optimize your content strategy.
Don't post sporadically; maintain a consistent posting schedule to keep your audience engaged and looking forward to your content.

How to Use IGTV on Instagram

1. Accessing IGTV

IGTV is a feature within the Instagram app that allows users to watch and upload longer videos. To access IGTV, simply open the Instagram app and tap on the IGTV icon located at the top right corner of the screen.

2. Exploring IGTV Content

Once you're on the IGTV section, you can explore various videos by swiping up or down. You can also browse through different categories such as "For You," "Following," "Popular," and "Continue Watching" to discover new content.

3. Watching IGTV Videos

To watch a video on IGTV, simply tap on the thumbnail of the video you're interested in. The video will start playing in full screen, and you can like, comment, and share the video just like any other Instagram post.

4. Uploading to IGTV

If you want to upload your own videos to IGTV, tap on the "+" icon at the top right corner of the IGTV section. You can choose a video from your camera roll or record a new one directly within the app. Add a title, description, and cover image before publishing your video.

5. IGTV Channel

Every Instagram user has their own IGTV channel where all their uploaded videos are displayed. You can access your channel by tapping on your profile picture in the IGTV section. From there, you can manage your videos, edit your channel settings, and view insights.

6. IGTV Series

IGTV allows you to create series, which are collections of related videos. To create a series, go to your IGTV channel, tap on the "..." button next to a video, and select "Add to Series." You can then give your series a title and add more videos to it.

7. Interacting with IGTV Content

While watching IGTV videos, you can interact with the content by liking, commenting, and sharing. You can also save videos to watch later by tapping on the bookmark icon. Additionally, you can follow IGTV creators to stay updated with their latest videos.

What Are Ideas for IGTV?

1. How to Create Engaging IGTV Content

Creating engaging IGTV content is essential for attracting and retaining viewers. One idea is to focus on storytelling and creating a narrative arc within your videos. Another idea is to collaborate with influencers or other creators to expand your reach. Additionally, experimenting with different video formats, such as tutorials or behind-the-scenes footage, can help keep your content fresh and interesting.

Create a series of videos that tell a cohesive story
Collaborate with influencers or other creators
Experiment with different video formats
Include subtitles or captions for accessibility
Promote your IGTV content on other social media platforms

2. How to Optimize IGTV Videos for Discoverability

Optimizing your IGTV videos for discoverability can help increase their visibility and reach a wider audience. One idea is to use relevant keywords and hashtags in your video titles and descriptions. Another idea is to create eye-catching thumbnails that entice viewers to click on your videos. Additionally, promoting your IGTV content through Instagram Stories or cross-promoting with other creators can help boost discoverability.

Use relevant keywords and hashtags in video titles and descriptions
Create eye-catching thumbnails
Promote IGTV content through Instagram Stories
Cross-promote with other creators
Engage with comments and respond to viewer feedback

3. How to Monetize Your IGTV Channel

Monetizing your IGTV channel can be a great way to earn income from your content. One idea is to join the Instagram Partner Program and become eligible for monetization opportunities. Another idea is to collaborate with brands and create sponsored content. Additionally, you can explore affiliate marketing or sell merchandise related to your IGTV channel to generate revenue.

Join the Instagram Partner Program for monetization opportunities
Collaborate with brands for sponsored content
Explore affiliate marketing
Sell merchandise related to your IGTV channel
Engage with your audience and build a loyal community

4. How to Increase Engagement on Your IGTV Videos

Increasing engagement on your IGTV videos is crucial for building a loyal audience. One idea is to encourage viewers to leave comments and respond to them to foster a sense of community. Another idea is to ask questions or create polls within your videos to encourage viewer interaction. Additionally, promoting your IGTV content through Instagram Stories or collaborating with other creators can help boost engagement.

Encourage viewers to leave comments and respond to them
Ask questions or create polls within your videos
Promote IGTV content through Instagram Stories
Collaborate with other creators
Consistently upload high-quality and engaging content

5. How to Analyze and Improve Your IGTV Performance

Analyzing and improving your IGTV performance is essential for growing your channel. One idea is to use Instagram Insights to track key metrics such as views, likes, and comments. Another idea is to experiment with different video lengths and formats to see what resonates best with your audience. Additionally, engaging with your audience through comments and conducting surveys or polls can provide valuable feedback for improvement.

Use Instagram Insights to track key metrics
Experiment with different video lengths and formats
Engage with your audience through comments
Conduct surveys or polls for feedback
Collaborate with other creators for cross-promotion