Creating Video Content on TikTok & Instagram Reels: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners (50+ and Fabulous!)

Ever felt a little “out of the loop” when people talk about TikTok and Instagram Reels? Or wondered why people seem obsessed with making quick videos that get millions of views? Fear not! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about creating, editing, and posting videos—step by step, with a sprinkle of fun along the way.

Step 1: Put On Your Glasses! 👓

Before we begin, let’s make sure we’re ready to go. Grab your reading glasses, a nice cup of coffee, and maybe even a pen to jot down any ideas you have along the way.

Step 2: What Are TikTok and Instagram Reels?

Think of TikTok and Instagram Reels as mini-TV stations where everyone can broadcast quick, catchy videos. Here’s the gist:

• TikTok: Known for ultra-short, 15-second to 3-minute videos that focus on trends, music, and creativity. Ideal for humor, storytelling, or even a quick beauty tip!
• Instagram Reels: A feature within Instagram, designed for 15-second to 90-second videos, often more polished and shareable on your Instagram feed and stories.

Getting Started with TikTok

Step 3: Download and Set Up the App

• Download TikTok from your app store (Apple App Store for iPhones or Google Play for Android).
• Open TikTok and create an account. You can use an email, phone number, or sign up with Google or Facebook. Pick a username that resonates with you—your name or something creative!
• Customize Your Profile: Add a profile picture, bio, and link to your blog, Voguegenics.com.

Step 4: Learn the Layout

When you open TikTok, you’ll see:

Trending

Simple Steps for Beautiful Hair

• Home Feed: Where popular videos and content from creators you follow appear.
• Discover: A search bar for finding specific topics or trending sounds.
• Create: A plus sign button where all the video-making magic happens.

Step 5: Filming Your First Video

1. Tap the Plus Sign to start creating.
2. Choose Your Length: Decide if you want a 15s, 60s, or 3-minute video.
3. Select a Sound or Music: Tap “Add Sound” to choose background music or audio. TikTok’s music library is vast—browse by trending, genres, or search for specific songs.
4. Start Recording: Hold the red circle to film. You can pause anytime by letting go, then resume.
5. Add Effects: Explore filters, time effects (like slow-motion), and stickers to add a fun touch.

Step 6: Editing Basics on TikTok

• Trim Clips: Drag the ends of each clip to shorten.
• Add Text: Tap “Text” to type captions or labels. Customize font, color, and placement.
• Adjust Volume: Tap “Volume” to control the loudness of your audio or background music.
• Add Filters: Go to “Filters” to find color or beauty filters that enhance your video’s look.

Step 7: Publishing Your TikTok Video

• Write a catchy caption.
• Add hashtags (e.g., #50PlusandFabulous, #BeginnerTikTok).
• Tap “Post” to share!

Creating Content on Instagram Reels

Step 8: Getting Started with Instagram Reels

• Open Instagram and go to the Reels section by tapping the clapperboard icon.
• Tap the camera icon to start creating. If you don’t have Instagram, download it from your app store and sign up or log in.

Step 9: Familiarize Yourself with Reels Tools

• Length Options: Choose 15, 30, or 90 seconds.
• Speed: Adjust to slow down or speed up your recording.
• Align: Align clips for smoother transitions (handy for outfit or makeup changes).
• Music: Instagram also offers a library of music, which you can access by tapping “Audio.”

Step 10: Record Your Reel

• Hold down the record button to film each clip.
• Tap the record button again to pause and plan your next clip.
• Try to keep clips under a few seconds each for a snappy, engaging flow.

Step 11: Edit Your Reel

• Text: Tap “Aa” to add text—just like in Stories.
• Stickers: Tap the smiley sticker icon to add fun graphics, emojis, or even polls.
• Filters: Swipe to find your favorite filter.
• Preview & Adjust: Watch the preview and make any changes.

Step 12: Share Your Reel

• Write a fun caption.
• Add relevant hashtags (e.g., #BeginnerReels, #VoguegenicsTips).
• Post to your feed or just on Reels.

Editing Made Easy: Tools to Try

• In-App Tools: Both TikTok and Instagram have great in-app editors. Start here before moving to advanced tools.
• CapCut: A free app with easy trimming, transitions, and music features.
• InShot: Allows you to resize, add borders, or even layer text and stickers.

Tips for Engaging Content

• Keep It Simple: Simple “how-tos,” style tips, or even quick motivational messages work well.
• Use Trending Music: Music boosts visibility and attracts viewers.
• Be Yourself: Authenticity shines. Show off your personality and style!

#Voguegenics #TikTokForBeginners #InstagramReelsGuide #50PlusFabulous #SocialMediaMadeSimple

Dorey Duncan Scott Senior Litigation Paralegal

Hi! I’m Dorey Duncan Scott, a mother of three, wife and fashion entrepreneur. I started my career in fashion back in the early 90’s when I did print, still and runway modeling. I studied Fashion Merchandising, Music Business and Marketing, while also obtaining certificates in such industry-necessary areas such as make-up, styling and runway choreography. In addition, I had work as a spokesmodel for several brands, appearing in print and in person. As a former model, turned senior litigation paralegal, artist manager and on-air personality with a passion for fashion, beauty, and personal development, I bring a unique combination of style, strategic thinking, and legal expertise to my work. My years navigating the legal world have sharpened my attention to detail, while my experience and passion for fashion, beauty, and personal development drives my desire to help others feel empowered and help them in their journey toward self-empowerment. My experience in the fashion world has taught me the power of confidence. 

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