Instagram is great for quick videos, but sometimes you want to share something longer. Maybe it’s a tutorial, a vlog, a product review or a story that needs more time. The good thing is that Instagram allows longer videos, but you need to use the correct method. If you try to upload the wrong way, Instagram will force you to trim or split your video.
Let’s go step by step and understand exactly how to upload longer videos without any confusion.
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1. Know Instagram’s Video Length Limits
Before you upload anything, you should know what type of video goes where. Instagram has different limits for each format.
- Stories: Each clip is around 60 seconds. Longer videos get auto-split.
- Reels: Mostly short form content used for quick engagement.
- Feed Videos: This is where you can upload the longer clips. Instagram often allows several minutes and in some cases much longer depending on account features.
Understanding this helps you choose the right upload method.
2. Prepare Your Video Properly
Long videos need proper formatting so Instagram doesn’t compress or glitch the upload.
Here’s what you should keep ready:
- Format: MP4
- Codec: H.264 recommended
- Resolution: 1080p for best clarity
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9 for widescreen, 4:5 for vertical style
- File Size: Keep it optimized so it uploads quickly
- Thumbnail: Choose a strong thumbnail because longer videos need a good first impression
Preparing your file is half the work done.
3. How to Upload Longer Videos on Instagram Using Mobile
This is the simplest method for most users.
Steps:
- Open Instagram
- Tap the + button
- Select Post (not Story and not Reel)
- Choose your longer video
- Instagram will load the full video – review it
- Add caption, tags and location
- Tap Share
The video will upload and process. Longer videos take more time so be patient.
Also read: How to Hide or Unhide Like Counts on Instagram Posts and Reels (Step-by-Step Guide)
4. Uploading Long Videos Using Desktop
If your video is very long or large, using a computer is sometimes more stable.
Steps:
- Go to Instagram web on your computer
- Log in to your account
- Click the + upload icon
- Select your video
- Adjust thumbnail and crop if needed
- Add your caption and share
Desktop uploads usually handle heavy files better and faster.
5. If Your Video Is Too Long, Here Are Your Options
If Instagram still says the video is too long, don’t panic. You can do these:
- Trim the video – remove unnecessary parts
- Split it into multiple clips and upload as a carousel
- Convert parts of it into Reels for extra reach
- Compress it slightly while maintaining quality
These options ensure you can still publish your content without losing the full message.
6. Tips to Make Your Long Video Perform Better
Uploading is one thing. Making it perform well is another.
Here’s what helps:
- Start with a hook in the first few seconds
- Use a clean thumbnail
- Write a strong caption
- Use relevant hashtags
- Share it in Stories for extra reach
- Pin a comment to guide viewers
Long videos need good packaging for better engagement.
Also read: How to Collaborate with Others on Instagram Reels for Faster Growth
Final Thoughts
Uploading longer videos on Instagram is easy once you understand which format to use and how to prepare the video correctly. Focus on proper formatting, choose the right upload method and follow good posting practices. Once you do it a couple of times, you’ll be able to upload any long video smoothly without trimming or losing quality.