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How to Use Instagram Edits
App: The Basics
How to Use Instagram Edits App: The Basics

Before we get into the tips, here’s a quick crash course in using Edits.


How to Use Instagram Edits App: The Basics


Step 1: Download + Sign In


First things first — head over to the App Store or Google Play and search for "Instagram Edits." Download the app, and you're halfway there!
Once it’s installed, just log in with your Instagram account. No need to create anything new — super simple!


Step 2: Create a Project


Inside the app, you have two choices:


  • You can record videos directly (up to 10 minutes)

  • Or upload videos from your camera roll.


If you want to upload, tap the ‘+’ button at the bottom right.
To record new clips straight from the app, hit the record button on the bottom menu bar.


⚡️ Pro Tip:

If you’re mixing saved footage with new clips, upload your saved footage first. You can then record new scenes right inside the timeline!


Step 3: Edit with the Timeline


Now for the fun part: editing!


The new timeline feature is so much better than Instagram’s old clunky editing. It’s super precise, frame-by-frame.
Here's what you can do:


  • Pinch your fingers to zoom in or out on the timeline.

  • Tap and hold any clip to drag and rearrange it wherever you want.


When you tap a clip, editing options pop up:


FeaturesWhat it Does
SplitCut your clip exactly where you want
VolumeAdjust or mute the sound
AdjustChange brightness, contrast, warmth, etc.
SpeedSlow down or speed up clips (up to 10x!)
DeleteRemove a clip (undo available if needed)
FiltersAdd cool Instagram-style filters
Green ScreenReplace your background
EffectsAdd fun zooms, flashes, and more
Voice FXChange your voice (Helium, Alien, etc.)
Extract AudioSeparate sound from video
MirrorFlip your video vertically
ReplaceSwap the clip without changing its length
SlipPick a different moment in the same clip
DuplicateCopy a clip exactly


⚡️ Pro Tip:


The filters are awesome — some give your footage a polished, natural look without going over the top. Definitely worth checking out.


Step 4: Add Effects, Text, and Audio


Now let’s jazz up your video!


Make sure no clip is selected, and you'll see these options:


  • Audio: Add music or sounds (including ones you've saved on Instagram)

  • Text: Insert text with tons of new fonts

  • Voice: Record a voiceover

  • Captions: Auto-generate text from your speech

  • Overlay: Place images or videos over your footage

  • Sound FX: Add fun sound effects

  • Cutout: Layer parts of other clips or images

  • Sticker: Add stickers or GIFs to spice things up


You can layer multiple features to make your content truly unique!


Step 5: Export + Post Anywhere


When you’re happy with your masterpiece, it’s time to export.


  • Save your video in high-quality 4K with no watermark.

  • Share it directly to Instagram, Facebook, or any other platform.

  • The video also saves automatically to your camera roll, ready for later use.


And boom — you’re officially a video editing pro!



7 Instagram Edits Tips and Tricks to Help You Level Up Your Next Video


Instagram Edits isn’t just basic — it’s packed with cool features. Here’s how to make your videos even better:


1. Save Ideas and Inspiration


Sometimes your best ideas hit when you’re not even trying!
Luckily, Edits has a sticky notes feature to save all your creative thoughts.


  • Tap the sticky note icon on the bottom left.

  • To create a new note, hit the ‘+’ button.

  • You’ll also find your saved Reels from Instagram here, ready for editing!


⚡️ Pro Tip:


Save any Reel that has audio you love. When you open it in Edits, you can start a new project with that sound instantly!


2. Experiment with New Fonts


Tired of the same old Instagram fonts? Good news — Edits offers around 50 fresh fonts, sorted into easy categories like ‘Simple,’ ‘Bold,’ and ‘Handwritten.’


You can even animate the fonts or add colorful backgrounds.
It’s perfect for giving your videos a unique look without feeling overwhelmed.


3. Use the Green Screen for Quick Wins


Want to talk over a video or image?
The green screen tool makes it super easy.


  • Upload your background first.

  • Tap the green screen button.

  • Record yourself while seeing the background play behind you!


It’s super beginner-friendly — just note that you can’t edit the green screen clip later (unless you film separately and use the cutout tool).


4. Get Creative with Cutouts


Cutouts are one of the coolest features!


  • Select a part of a clip or image to overlay on top of another.

  • You can layer multiple cutouts for fun effects — like making someone appear in multiple places at once!


Heads up: You can’t layer cutouts over text (yet), but hopefully that’ll be updated soon. 🤞


5. Don’t Be Shy with Sound Effects


Sound effects take your video from good to great.


Edits offers around 50 organized sound effects, making it easy to find what you need (like pops, clicks, or swooshes).


⚡️ Pro Tip:


Use subtle sound effects when text pops up or during quick transitions for a more dynamic, polished feel.


6. Scroll Through Trends to Get Inspired


Not sure what to make? Check out the trending videos inside Edits.


  • Tap the video icon on the bottom left.

  • You’ll find a feed full of trending audio and formats.

  • Tap ‘Use Audio’ on anything you love, and it’ll open a fresh project.


Staying on-trend has never been easier!


7. Let Insights Guide Your Next Move


Want to know how your videos perform?
Edits gives you real-time insights right inside the app.


  • Tap the graph icon on the bottom right.

  • See detailed stats like skip rate, like rate, and share rate.

  • View a retention graph to find out where viewers drop off.


Use these stats to tweak and improve your future videos!



Final Thoughts: Why Instagram Edits is a Must-Have for Creators


Instagram Edits brings everything you need — from planning to posting — into one clean, creator-friendly app.


And the best part? It’s only going to get better, with upcoming features like:


  • Key Frames for more precise control

  • Modify videos with AI

  • Team Collaboration on drafts

  • Even more fonts, effects, and music options


If you create videos mainly for Instagram, Edits is absolutely worth downloading.
For longer or more complex projects (like YouTube), you might still want a bigger editor, but for quick, professional Instagram content — Edits is a total win.


🎥 Available now for iOS and Android!