How To Edit Dark Aesthetic Instagram Reels In CapCut
People & Blogs
Introduction
Creating standout content for social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok can be a challenging task, especially if you're aiming for that polished look that many popular creators have mastered. In this guide, I will walk you through the process of creating better-looking aesthetic Instagram reels using just your iPhone and CapCut. This easy-to-follow method allows you to generate consistent content while also making it visually appealing.
Filming Tips
To begin, consider designating one day each week as your filming day. On this day, capture a variety of b-roll footage: shooting at your home office, working out, playing with your dog, or enjoying outdoor activities such as walking or skiing. This accumulative approach not only saves time but also ensures you have a well of material to draw from for future content. Here are some essential filming tips to remember:
- Resolution and Frame Rate: Always film in 4K at 30 frames per second for the highest video quality.
- Lock Exposure: Adjust your exposure settings to slightly underexpose your videos, which helps to highlight the subject and create a cohesive look.
- Aesthetic Composition: Choose symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing shots. Keep your camera level and focus on environments with strong vertical or horizontal lines.
- Explore Focal Lengths: Experiment with different zoom levels but consider sticking with the 0.7x zoom for a balanced perspective.
- Stabilization Tools: Use a tripod to keep your shots steady and visually appealing.
Song and Content Selection
Next, determine the mood of your reels through the music choice. Browse Instagram to find trending songs that resonate with your style. Look for songs that have recently gained popularity but haven't been overly used—under 10,000 uses is optimal. Save these tracks for ease of use later.
Screen record your chosen song so you can easily import it into your editing software. Afterward, gather all your b-roll footage along with the song into CapCut to start editing.
Editing with CapCut on Desktop
- Import Files: Open CapCut on your desktop and drag your clips and screen-recorded audio into the project.
- Extract Audio: Drag the audio track down to the timeline, right-click, and select 'Extract Audio.' Delete the video portion to keep only the audio.
- Clip Trimming: Keep each clip short—aim for one second or even less. Quick cuts keep the viewer engaged.
- Text Overlay: Use the notes app on your iPhone to draft on-screen text. Upload this as a transparency graphic in CapCut to easily overlay on your video. Modify the blending option to 'Screen' for a clean look.
- Color Correction: Adjust the exposure and colors, focusing on darker tones. Lower the opacity of your video for an aesthetic feel, then fine-tune individual color settings until the desired look is achieved.
Exporting Your Video
When exporting, set the resolution to 1080p for social media compatibility. Select the following settings for optimal results:
- Codec: H.264
- Format: MOV
- Frame Rate: 30 frames per second
- Audio: MP3
Once exported, transfer the file to your phone and then upload it to Instagram. Import the song from Instagram, sync it with your video, and adjust the volumes accordingly by muting the background footage. Afterwards, complete your post with a compelling caption and select an eye-catching cover image.
Final Thoughts
Creating dark aesthetic Instagram reels using your iPhone and CapCut is an easy process that can dramatically improve your social media content. CapCut's user-friendly interface makes it a top choice for creators at all skill levels, and with just a tripod, a light, and a decent microphone, you can elevate your iPhone videos significantly. For a detailed list of recommended equipment and links to CapCut, check the description below.
Keyword
- Instagram Reels
- CapCut
- Aesthetic Content
- B-Roll Footage
- Editing Techniques
- 4K Video
- Music Selection
- Color Correction
- Video Export Settings
FAQ
Q: What is the best frame rate for filming Instagram reels?
A: It’s recommended to film in 4K at 30 frames per second for optimal quality.
Q: How can I find trending songs for my reels?
A: Browse through Instagram and save songs that are trending and align with your desired video aesthetic.
Q: What should I consider when editing my clips?
A: Keep your clips short, aim for quick cuts, and ensure the text overlays are clear and visually appealing.
Q: How do I transfer my edited video to Instagram?
A: Export the video from CapCut, transfer it to your phone, add the music track from Instagram, and upload it directly as a reel.
Q: Can I edit on my phone?
A: Yes, CapCut is available for phones, offering a simple and intuitive editing experience, similar to the desktop version.