Must-have items to create Instagram reels

As a photographer and reels coach, I know the importance of having the right equipment to create eye-catching and engaging content for Instagram reels. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there are certain items that are must-haves for creating high-quality reels that will captivate your audience. In this blog post, I will share some of the essential items that you need to make Instagram reels and will include my affiliate Amazon links to make your shopping experience easy and convenient.

1. Smartphone Tripod

One of the most important pieces of equipment for creating Instagram reels is a tripod. A tripod allows you to stabilize your phone and keep it steady while you’re filming, resulting in smoother footage. Even though I’m a photographer and my big camera takes gorgeous video, phones do the trick for this purpose. A smartphone tripod is also great to keep in the car like I do or in your bag like my friend Kimberly does. Xenvo SquidGrip Flexible Cell Phone Tripod and Portable Action Camera Holder – Compatible with iPhone, GoPro, Android, Samsung, Google Pixel and All Mobile Phones is a versatile and affordable option at just $39.99 that can be used with a wide range of smartphones or even your kid’s GoPro (which is why I originally bought it back in 2020.) It survived many neighborhood adventures, watch their Mongoose Adventures here for a laugh. It’s as good as new and I use it for behind-the-scenes footage at most photo shoots, and at networking meetings like the St. Pete Girl Boss meet ups, we recently used it for a group reel! Taylor and Kimberly wrapped it around some pool cue sticks for the perfect height for us. We used window lighting so just needed an easy smartphone tripod.

2. Ring Light

Good lighting is crucial for creating high-quality Instagram reels. Even in dailight, it’s good to have that added brightness to your photos to keep our viewers enjoying quality videos.

Instagram promotes quality well-lit reels over dark ones, so invest in this simple added light. A ring light is an excellent investment as it provides even and flattering light that will make your videos look professional.

The compact ring light, LITTIL Superstar Slim – Portable 11in USB Ring Light Stand with Phone Holder, is perfect to pack in a bag and I switched to it for my photo booth since it is so easy to go very high and can be shortened for toddler-height too. I use this one without the ring light: Sensyne 10” Ring Light with 50” Extendable Tripod Stand, LED Circle Lights with Phone Holder. Another popular bigger one is the 18 inch LED Ring Light with Tripod Stand that comes with a dimmable LED ring light, tripod stand, phone holder, and even has a Bluetooth remote control. The remote is great when you are using your phone’s video instead of shooting through an app. You can always take videos (also called B-roll) to use later. Everything is content!

2. External Microphone

The sound quality of your Instagram reels is just as important as the visual quality. External microphones are a great way to improve the audio quality of your videos, especially if you’re filming in a noisy environment. The Wireless Lavalier Microphone is a popular and affordable option that can be easily attached to your smartphone. It’s what I have and I bought it for a friend too. If you’re interviewing somebody or have more than one person in your video, a great option is this small mic with the option of two connected microphones!

3. Portable Charger

Making Instagram reels can be battery-intensive, especially if you’re filming for an extended period. There’s nothing worse than that dread that your phone will soon run out of battery! A portable charger is an essential item that will ensure that you never run out of battery while filming. The LOVELEDI Portable-Charger-Power-Bank – 2 Pack is a set of two compact and reliable power banks that can provide multiple charges for your smartphone. It comes with two! My tripod ring lights plug into a USB port, so I don’t have to be near a wall outlet. I am fully portable – even my photo booth can fit anywhere. I buy the two pack just in case, and can plug both a phone and ring light in at the same time. Believe me, you need at least one. If you buy two, you will use them, or your kids will, or they make practical gifts for your friends who run on “low battery” mode on the regular. At my last Fishy Face Photography event, a guest was looking for an outlet. I let him use my spare charger and he was so happy! If my clients’ guests are happy, I’m happy and the party is a hit. Buy these. They’re 80% off now and are only $19.99!

4. Reusable Water Bottle

I realize this is not on other lists, but I need my water, and when talking or dancing, you need to stay hydrated. I have a custom branded Fishy Face Photography sparkly tumbler from a friend and you may have a favorite cup like your big Yeti or Stanley, so if you’re set on your water cup, may I suggest using a silicone straw. It’s better for your teeth than possibly hitting them with a stainless steal or otherwise hard one. Buy a pack of straws so you always have a clean one. If you want to be able to toss your ice water in your bag or on your passenger car seat, then this is a perfect option. A Ludabottle can be engraved with your branding! If you prefer to shop on Amazon, then try this version which comes in a variety of colors and sizes, has a handle so you can grab it and your keys and phone all in one hand and can open the doors with the other. It’s the DRINCO Stainless Steel Water Bottle. No matter how you tote your water, with you, keep it fun. I’ve made a couple of reels with the sound, Drink More Water.

So now you know, having the right equipment is crucial for creating engaging and captivating fun Instagram reels. With a smartphone tripod, ring light, external microphone, portable charger, and new favorite water bottle, you’ll be able to create high-quality content that will stand out on the platform. The Amazon links provided above will make it easy for you to purchase these items and start making amazing Instagram reels in no time. If you need help with where to start or how to level up, join my free Facebook group, Really Getting Reels!