How to Create Instagram Reels with Split-Screen Interviews: Split Screen Video Guide

By: Ellen Bartolino

Creating engaging content on Instagram Reels is crucial for reaching a wider audience and keeping your followers engaged. One popular method is using split-screen videos on Instagram. This approach allows you to showcase two perspectives simultaneously, which is especially effective for split-screen interviews, tutorials, or reaction-style content. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the process of making split-screen videos on Instagram Reels to enhance your content game.

Using the right tools and techniques, you’ll be able to produce professional-quality split-screen Reels that stand out on the platform. Whether you’re using IG’s built-in video editor or third-party apps like InShot or CapCut, this tutorial is perfect for those looking to level up their Instagram Reels. By the end, you’ll know how to edit, upload, and post split-screen videos to showcase your unique content in a visually appealing way.

How to create instagram reels with split-screen interviews

Introduction to Creating Split-Screen Videos on Instagram Reels

What is a Split-Screen Video?

A split-screen video is a type of content format where the screen is divided into two or more parts, displaying different clips simultaneously. It’s a popular format for showcasing interviews, comparisons, or side-by-side tutorials. Split screen videos on Instagram Reels allow viewers to see multiple perspectives at once, making them perfect for delivering diverse content in one seamless Reel. This format is effective for maintaining audience attention, as it offers multiple layers of information at a glance.

Whether you want to make a reel using the split-screen layout to compare two products, feature different locations, or display screen videos on Instagram Reels, the split-screen style provides endless creative possibilities. To ensure your videos look professional, always adjust the clips to fit without having them scaled weird or ending up with black bars around your videos. Using apps like InShot or CapCut can help you avoid these issues and make the editing process easier.

Why Use Split-Screen Videos on Instagram Reels?

Creating split-screen videos on Instagram Reels has become increasingly popular because it’s a great way to present engaging split-screen videos that stand out. When you make split-screen videos, you can highlight different angles of the same scene, show before-and-after footage, or even collaborate with other creators by featuring both contributors equally on the screen. This format is highly effective for showcasing tutorials, comparisons, or interactive content, as viewers are encouraged to spend more time watching each frame for detailed information.

For brands and creators who want to create engaging Reels, this format can significantly boost engagement by giving viewers multiple layers of content to explore. Whether you’re using IG’s built-in video editor or external apps, split-screen Reels are perfect for capturing attention. It’s crucial to stay updated with Instagram’s best practices, as the instagram reels 🔔 stay updated strategy suggests. Split-screen videos work well in keeping your audience informed, ensuring that you stay updated with our latest content and maintain high interaction rates.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Split-Screen Instagram Reels

Tools You Need for Split-Screen Reels

To create split-screen videos on Instagram Reels, you’ll need a few basic tools. Depending on the complexity of your video, you might use IG’s built-in video editor, but for more control, consider using external apps like InShot, CapCut, or Adobe Premiere Rush. These tools offer various editing options and layouts, making it easier to create professional-looking split-screen content.

Here are the most popular tools you can use:

  • InShot: An easy-to-use app perfect for beginners looking to create split-screen videos.
  • CapCut: A free video editor with a dedicated split-screen feature and a user-friendly interface.
  • Adobe Premiere Rush: Ideal for advanced creators who want more editing flexibility and customizations.

Download one of these apps, and we’ll walk you through the process of creating your first split-screen Instagram Reel.

When I first started experimenting with split-screen videos on Instagram, I found it challenging to keep both clips balanced and aligned. One trick I learned was to use a third-party app like InShot to adjust the dimensions and apply custom layouts. This allowed me to create more cohesive videos without losing quality, making my Reels look more polished.

How to Create Split-Screen Videos Using Free Apps

  1. Download and Install the App: Start by downloading the app of your choice from the App Store or Google Play Store. Open the app and tap on the “New Project” option.
  2. Upload Your Video Clips: Select the video clips you want to use. To create a split-screen video, you need at least two clips that will be displayed side-by-side.
  3. Choose the Split-Screen Layout: Look for the “Split-Screen” or “Layout” option in the app. Most apps provide a variety of options, such as vertical, horizontal, or grid layouts.
  4. Edit and Adjust Clips: Position your clips in the desired layout. Trim, crop, and adjust the footage as needed to ensure a seamless display.
  5. Add Music, Text, and Stickers: Make your video more engaging by adding music, text overlays, and stickers. Many apps offer built-in libraries to enhance your content.
  6. Export and Save: Once satisfied, export the video in a high-quality format to maintain clarity when uploading to Instagram.

Now that you’ve created your split-screen video let’s explore how to post it to Instagram Reels in the next section.

I noticed that my Instagram Reels weren’t performing as well as expected, so I decided to tweak my approach by adding engaging elements like text overlays and stickers. This small change made my split-screen videos more interactive and increased my engagement rate by 20% within a month.

How to Create Split-Screen Videos

Tips for Recording Split-Screen Interviews for Reels

Best Practices for Framing Split-Screen Interviews

When creating a split-screen interview for Instagram Reels, framing is key. Proper framing ensures that both participants are visible and engaging. Here are a few tips:

  1. Use Consistent Backgrounds: Keep the background of both clips similar in color and theme to create a cohesive look. If possible, ask both participants to sit in well-lit areas with minimal distractions.
  2. Maintain Eye Level: Make sure the camera is positioned at eye level for both participants. This not only makes the video more professional but also keeps the viewer’s attention focused on the speakers.
  3. Balance the Composition: Position each speaker on opposite sides of the screen. Avoid overlapping visuals or placing one subject too close to the middle, which can disrupt the flow of the conversation.

How to Optimize Audio for Split-Screen Reels

Audio is just as important as video quality. Poor sound can reduce the impact of your split-screen videos on Instagram Reels. Here are a few tips to ensure crisp and clear audio:

  1. Use External Microphones: If possible, use a lavalier mic or an external microphone for each participant. This reduces background noise and captures voices more clearly.
  2. Record Separately and Sync Later: In some cases, recording audio separately and syncing it during editing can yield better results. This is especially useful if the two speakers are in different locations.
  3. Test Audio Levels Before Recording: Make sure both audio tracks are balanced. If one person is louder than the other, adjust the volume levels in your editing software.

Following these tips will help you create professional-looking split-screen Reels that are visually and audibly appealing.

In 2023, Instagram Reels generated a reach rate of 30.81%, outperforming other types of content like single-image posts and standard video posts, which had significantly lower reach rates. Despite a 25% drop in engagement throughout 2023, Reels still remain the most engaging content format on Instagram​ (Sprout Social).

How to Post Split-Screen Videos on Instagram Reels

Creating an Engaging Caption and Description

After creating your split-screen video, the next step is to post it on Instagram Reels. The caption and description play a significant role in grabbing your audience’s attention. Follow these tips to craft engaging text that complements your video:

  1. Start with a Hook: Use a catchy phrase or question related to the video’s content, such as, “Want to learn how to create engaging split-screen Reels?”
  2. Highlight Key Points: Summarize what viewers can expect from the video, like “Learn how to edit and post split-screen videos to level up your Instagram game.”
  3. Include Relevant Hashtags: Use hashtags like #splitScreenReels, #InstagramTips, and #ReelsTutorial to increase your video’s visibility.

Adding Chapters to Split-Screen Instagram Reels

While Instagram doesn’t officially support chapter markers like YouTube, you can simulate chapters using timestamps in your caption. This is especially useful for longer Reels that feature multiple tips or tutorial steps. For example:

  • 0:00 – Introduction
  • 0:30 – Tools You’ll Need
  • 1:15 – How to Create a Split-Screen Video
  • 2:45 – Posting Your Video

By breaking down your split-screen video into digestible parts, viewers can easily navigate through the content, making it more engaging and user-friendly.

You can simulate chapters using timestamps in your caption

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Split-Screen Reels

Errors to Watch Out for in Split-Screen Editing

Creating split-screen videos can be challenging, especially if you’re new to editing. These videos require meticulous attention to detail, from ensuring visual alignment to managing audio levels. If you’re planning to post split-screen videos on Instagram, avoiding these common mistakes will help you produce professional-looking content.

  1. Mismatched Aspect Ratios: One of the most frequent issues is using clips with different aspect ratios. If one clip is taller or wider than the other, the video may get scaled weird or either don’t fit, resulting in black bars or cropped visuals. This can make your videos on Instagram Reels 🔗 look unprofessional and reduce viewer engagement. To avoid this, always check the aspect ratio before combining clips and make sure they match Instagram’s recommended vertical 9:16 format.
  2. Unbalanced Audio Levels: Audio is often overlooked in split-screen Reels. If one speaker’s audio is significantly louder than the other, it can distract the viewer. Use the volume adjustment tool in IG’s built-in video editor or a third-party app to balance the sound levels. This will ensure a seamless viewing experience and keep your audience engaged.
  3. Overcrowded Screens: Avoid squeezing too much information into one screen. The goal is to create clarity, not confusion. Use simple steps to arrange your clips, leaving enough space for each video segment to be clearly visible. Overcrowding can make it harder for viewers to follow, reducing the effectiveness of your message. Instead, simply add visual elements like arrows or text to highlight key points without overwhelming the screen.

Why Split-Screen Videos Might Not Perform Well

Despite the effort put into creating split-screen videos, sometimes they don’t perform as expected on Instagram Reels. Let’s explore some reasons why your reel using the split screen layout might not generate the desired engagement:

  1. Lack of a Clear Focus: Viewers can get overwhelmed if both sides of the split-screen are equally busy. Make sure one side is dominant, or use captions to guide the viewer’s attention. If your tutorial is perfect for you, highlight that side with visual cues, such as bright colors or reels. 📱 timestamps, to make it easy for viewers to follow.
  2. Poor Video Quality: Low-resolution videos can turn viewers away. Always export your split-screen video in high resolution to ensure a crisp and clear display. If your clips are blurry or fit or have black bars around them, consider re-editing the video using professional tools to enhance quality before posting.
  3. Ignoring Instagram’s Dimensions: Make sure your video fits Instagram’s vertical 9:16 format. If your content is not optimized for this format, it may appear cropped or have unnecessary borders, which can reduce engagement. When using IG’s built-in video editor, select the proper format or manually adjust the layout using left-hand side editing options.

According to Emplifi, brands increased their usage of Instagram Reels by 86% in Q2 of 2023 compared to the previous year. Reels generated 55% more interactions than single-image posts and 29% more interactions than traditional video posts, highlighting its continued value as a top-performing content type​ (Emplifi).

Tips for Avoiding These Mistakes

By addressing these issues, your split-screen Instagram Reels are more likely to attract attention and perform well. If you’re just starting out, consider using pre-designed templates in apps like InShot or CapCut to streamline the editing process. These apps provide you with a step-by-step guide to ensure that your split-screen videos look polished and professional.

Additionally, don’t forget to share it with friends or collaborators to get their feedback before uploading. They might notice minor mistakes or suggest creative changes that can elevate the final product. If you found it challenging to align clips or edit audio, don’t hesitate to seek help from online tutorials or communities dedicated to videos on Instagram Reels stay updated to learn new editing techniques.

Your split-screen Instagram Reels are more likely to attract attention and perform well

Conclusion

Creating split-screen videos on Instagram Reels is a powerful way to enhance your content and engage your audience. By using the right tools and following a step-by-step approach, you can produce professional-quality split-screen Reels that stand out. Remember to focus on key elements like consistent framing, balanced audio, and visually appealing layouts to make the most of this format.

Whether you’re using split-screen videos for interviews, tutorials, or creative collaborations, this guide has provided you with the knowledge to make split-screen videos on Instagram effectively. Avoid common pitfalls like mismatched aspect ratios and poor video quality, and always optimize for Instagram’s format to ensure your Reels reach their full potential.

Now, you’re ready to start creating and posting split-screen Instagram Reels that captivate your audience and help you level up your Instagram game!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best apps for creating split-screen videos on Instagram Reels?

Some of the best apps for creating split-screen videos include InShot, CapCut, and Adobe Premiere Rush. These tools offer various split-screen layouts, advanced editing tools, and easy exporting options, making them perfect for both beginners and experienced creators.

How can I add engaging elements like stickers and icons to my split-screen Instagram Reels?

To make your split-screen Reels more engaging, use Instagram’s built-in editor or third-party apps to add stickers, icons, and text overlays. InShot, for example, offers a wide range of animated stickers and design elements that you can use to highlight key points and keep your audience engaged.

How can I level up my split-screen Instagram Reels to gain more followers?

To level up your Instagram Reels, focus on creating visually appealing content with high-quality footage and audio. Use catchy captions, add trending music, and experiment with different split-screen layouts to see what resonates with your audience. Consistency is key, so aim to post regularly and engage with viewers in the comments.

Can I add a transcript to my split-screen Instagram Reels?

Yes, you can add a transcript by using the text tool in Instagram’s editor or by creating subtitles in a third-party app like CapCut. Transcripts make your content more accessible, especially for viewers watching without sound, and can improve engagement.

Why is my split-screen video not performing well on Instagram Reels?

If your split-screen videos are not performing well, consider optimizing your captions, ensuring proper aspect ratios, and experimenting with different templates. Try adding a hook in the first few seconds to capture attention and use hashtags to increase reach.

Author Bio

Ellen Bartolino

Ellen is a seasoned author and communication expert, with a particular focus on Instagram. Her extensive knowledge of the platform has allowed her to create engaging and effective content for businesses and individuals alike. Ellen has a proven track record of crafting compelling Instagram captions and influencer marketing.