Instagram is no longer just a photo-sharing app. In 2025, it’s a powerful video-driven platform where creators, brands, and influencers thrive on rich, immersive content. But one common challenge still lingers: how to post a long video on Instagram in 2025. Whether you're trying to upload a full tutorial, share an event recap, or showcase a product in detail, understanding Instagram's evolving video length rules is critical.
In this guide, you'll learn exactly how to upload long videos across various formats like Reels, Feed, Stories, and even IGTV’s successors. You'll also discover tools, strategies, and tips for optimizing video quality, engaging your audience, and avoiding upload issues.
What Counts as a ‘Long Video’ on Instagram in 2025?
In 2025, Instagram defines a “long video” as any clip exceeding 60 seconds. While Instagram began with short, snackable visuals, today it embraces long-form content due to the rise of education-based reels, storytelling vlogs, and product showcases.
With competition from YouTube Shorts and TikTok, Instagram has expanded its own video capabilities. Long videos are now fully integrated into feeds, and their performance metrics continue to rival shorter content,especially when paired with compelling visuals and meaningful storytelling.
If you’re looking to boost exposure, getting more Instagram views on long videos can dramatically increase discoverability.
Instagram’s Video Length Limits by Format
To effectively upload long video on Instagram, it’s crucial to know the 2025 limits by format:
- Instagram Reels: 90 seconds for most users; some creators can upload up to 120 seconds (still in limited testing).
- Instagram Feed (Single Video Post): Up to 10 minutes; extended to 60 minutes for some verified or business accounts.
- Instagram Stories: 15 seconds per card, up to 100 cards allowed,so technically 25 minutes.
- Instagram Live: Up to 4 hours.
- Carousel Posts: Up to 10 slides/videos, each limited to 60 seconds.
- Reels Ads: May be shorter due to ad placement constraints.
These rules form the basis of Instagram video duration rules and help creators avoid missteps when selecting formats.
Using these insights, you can now post longer videos on Instagram feed with confidence, knowing your audience can enjoy uninterrupted, longer storytelling.
To grow your audience for this content, consider attracting more free followers for better reach.
How to Post Long Videos as Reels (Up to 90 Seconds or More)
Reels are Instagram’s algorithm darling. They’re placed on Explore, Reels tabs, and even your profile grid. To post a long video on Instagram in 2025 via Reels:
- Tap the “+” icon and select Reel.
- Tap the duration setting (bottom-left) to select 90 seconds (or 120 seconds if eligible).
- Import a video or shoot directly.
- Use the editor to trim or stitch segments.
- Add captions, music, and stickers.
- Share it to Feed and Reels tab for visibility.
If your video exceeds 90 seconds, you'll need to split video for Instagram using third-party apps..
Also, avoid vertical cutoffs by ensuring your footage adheres to 9:16 format and checking mobile previews.
Creators can schedule or cross-promote Reels, too. Many also upload teasers to Reels that drive traffic to full versions elsewhere on Instagram.
Using Instagram Video (Feed) for Longer Content
Instagram Feed videos are best for long-form content on Instagram,think how-to guides, interviews, event coverage, or narrative videos.
Here’s how to post long-form Feed videos:
- Tap the “+” icon and select Post.
- Choose your video from your gallery (up to 10 minutes).
- Use the thumbnail selector, filters, and trim tool.
- Add a title and rich description with hashtags.
- Tap Share.
This format is ideal for creators aiming to post full-length video on Instagram without being bound by the Reels time limit.
For even longer uploads (up to 60 minutes), switch to Creator or Business accounts and use Meta’s advanced tools.
Want to ensure engagement? Try tactics to increase Instagram likes to trigger more feed algorithm recommendations.
How to Upload Long Videos to Instagram Stories
Stories may seem limited with their 15-second caps, but they support long-form storytelling when broken into clips.
To share lengthy videos on Instagram Stories:
- Open the Instagram camera and swipe up to select your video.
- If your video is longer than 15 seconds, Instagram auto-splits it.
- Customize each segment with stickers, music, and polls.
- Add them to your Story or Highlights for longer retention.
Instagram supports up to 100 Story cards per 24 hours,allowing a maximum of 25 minutes in Story format.
Use Stories creatively to serialize long videos, drive traffic to Feed or Reels, and interact with your viewers in real time.
Keep an eye on Instagram Stories video limit when editing content to maintain flow and avoid cutoff between story segments.
How to Share Longer Videos Through IGTV Replacements
Though IGTV as a standalone app is gone, Instagram has fully integrated its core capabilities into Feed and backend platforms like Meta Creator Studio.
To post using the IGTV replacement 2025 method:
- Visit Meta Creator Studio from desktop.
- Link your Instagram account.
- Click “Create Post” > “Instagram Feed”.
- Upload a video up to 60 minutes.
- Add caption, tags, and schedule your post.
This method is ideal for creators wanting to upload long video using Meta Creator Studio without worrying about app-based limits or compression artifacts.
It’s also the best option if you're looking to post long video from desktop or share polished content shot on cameras.
Tips for Compressing or Trimming Videos Without Losing Quality
Before uploading, large files need compression to avoid failure or pixelation.
To compress video for Instagram upload without losing quality:
- Use tools like HandBrake, Adobe Premiere Pro, or CapCut.
- Convert files to MP4 using H.264 codec.
- Set max bitrate to 5,500 kbps and resolution to 1080p.
- Keep file sizes below 4GB.
To trim video to fit Instagram, use Instagram’s editor or third-party tools. Always preview for cutoffs and use captions if needed.
Mastering how to avoid Instagram video cutoff means avoiding hard edits and using transitions to make segmented uploads feel seamless.
This is especially crucial for long Reels and Story series.
Best Practices for Keeping Viewers Engaged in Long Instagram Videos
Uploading is one thing,keeping your audience engaged is another.
Here’s how to maximize retention for long-form content on social media:
- Hook your viewer in the first 3 seconds with a bold visual or question.
- Add subtitles for silent viewers.
- Use storytelling structure: introduce, develop, and resolve.
- Include CTAs like “watch till the end” or “tap for part 2.”
- Use music and transitions to maintain interest.
If you're serious about growth, develop a long video strategy for Instagram engagement that aligns with your niche and target audience.
And remember, using long videos helps you grow followers with long Instagram videos because users are more likely to return for meaningful content.
Common Upload Errors and How to Fix Them
Even experienced creators hit snags. Here’s how to fix common problems when uploading long videos:
- Video Won’t Upload: Check file size and format. Use MP4 with H.264.
- Blurry Video: Re-export at 1080p. Avoid compressing twice.
- Instagram Crashes During Upload: Update the app or use Meta Creator Studio.
- Video Cuts Off Midway: Ensure it doesn’t exceed time limits per format.
When editing or uploading, always check Instagram video upload settings for compatibility with Android, iOS, and desktop.
Also, regularly clear cache and keep the app updated to avoid bugs related to Instagram video posting rules.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how to post a long video on Instagram in 2025 opens the door to richer, more impactful storytelling on one of the world’s most influential platforms. With updated format limits, better editing tools, and new ways to upload via Meta Creator Studio, creators now have more control than ever.
Whether you're sharing a 2-minute how-to on Reels, a 10-minute product review in your Feed, or a 25-minute behind-the-scenes tour via Stories, the possibilities are endless,as long as you match your content to the right format.
Remember to:
- Know the Instagram Reels time limit 2025 and plan your edits accordingly.\n- Use Feed and Creator Studio for extended uploads.\n- Optimize every video for quality, size, and engagement.\n- Use analytics and user feedback to refine your strategy.\n\nFinally, posting long-form content is no longer a workaround,it’s a feature. With smart execution, your longer videos can drive higher reach, stronger engagement, and real growth in 2025 and beyond.
FAQ
How long can Instagram videos be in 2025?
Instagram Feed videos are up to 10 minutes, Reels can be up to 90 seconds (some up to 120s), Stories are 15 seconds per card with up to 100 cards (25 minutes), and Lives can last 4 hours.
Can I post more than 60 seconds on Instagram?
Yes. Use Feed posts or Meta Creator Studio for videos between 1 and 10 minutes. Verified users may post up to 60 minutes.
What’s the max video length for Instagram Stories?
Instagram Stories support 15-second cards, with a maximum of 100 cards. That’s a total of 25 minutes.
How to upload a 5-minute video on Instagram?
Use the Feed video option or Meta Creator Studio. Feed posts allow up to 10 minutes for most users.
Where to post long videos on Instagram?
Feed, Stories (split into cards), Reels (up to 90 seconds), or Meta Creator Studio for longer content uploads.