Instagram used to be all about sharing pictures, but that changed in 2019 when they introduced Reels. These short video clips have become a popular way for creators to grow their following and increase engagement on the platform. Reels are also a great way for creators to make money through sponsored content, promoting their own products or services, and monetizing their Instagram account with the Instagram Play Bonus.
Keep reading to learn how to get paid for reels on Instagram.
What is an Instagram reel?
Instagram reels are full-screen videos, and they’re Instagram’s fastest-growing feature. Originally, reels were only fifteen seconds long, but now you can make an Instagram reel that’s up to ninety seconds long.
You can create a reel using a popular sound, song clip, or your own audio. You can also include different clips, stickers, or filters. There are plenty of options to capture your follower’s attention.
Instagram reels are a direct response to the popularity of TikTok. Make sure you’re including Instagram reels in your content strategy.
Related: Best Times To Post On TikTok
How can I get paid for Instagram reels?
There are two main ways creators can get paid for the content they post on Instagram. The most well-known way is through brand sponsorships. This is when outside advertisers sponsor an Instagram post and pay the creator directly.
The second way is with the Instagram Reels Play Bonus. This program is part of Instagram’s commitment to invest in its creators and is a way for creators to get paid directly from the platform. The Reels Play Bonus is a payout for the creators, but the actual amount earned is dependent on the number of views the reel receives in a specified timeframe.
How does the Instagram Play Bonus work?
Unfortunately, the Instagram Reels Play Bonus is not available for everyone – you have to be invited by Instagram. In order to be eligible, you need to have a public creator or brand account. Creators must also get a minimum of 1,000 views on their reels in 30 days.
If you’re not part of the Instagram Reels Play Bonus program, there’s no need to worry. If you meet all eligibility requirements, your invite should be coming soon.
How much money can I make with the Reels Play Bonus?
The payout you receive is based on the number of views your reel gets on Facebook and Instagram in 30 days. You can choose up to 150 reels a month to monetize with the Reels Play Bonus.
The actual amount of money you can earn with the Reels Play Bonus varies from creator to creator. Some creators report earnings of $1,200 for one million views, while others report only a few hundred dollars. As of now, the maximum bonus you can earn is $8,500.
Earnings can change over time. In fact, some creators report that earnings decrease the longer they participate in the program.
You can track your earnings at any point in the bonus setting in the Instagram app.
How do I become eligible for the program?
In order to be eligible for the Instagram Reels Play Bonus program, you’ll need to have a creator or business account. You’ll also have to prove you’re the legal owner of the Instagram account.
All reels in the Reels Play Bonus program have to be original content. If the content gets a copyright claim, it will become ineligible for a payout. You also run the risk of being removed from the Play Bonus program if you continue to post unoriginal content. Furthermore, Instagram does not allow you to double-dip with brands or sponsors. A sponsored reel is ineligible for a Reels Play Bonus.
To remain eligible for the Reels Play Bonus, your reels must receive a minimum of 1,000 views in the past 30 days.
As we mentioned earlier, Instagram has to invite you to join the Reels Play Bonus program. Once you’re invited, you have 30 days to join to program.
Related: Best Time To Post Reels on Instagram
How To Create Viral Instagram Reels
Like all content, Instagram reels require planning. Follow these best practices to optimize your Reels Play Bonus.
Plan Your Reels Content
Nothing’s stopping you from pulling out your camera and shooting a reel in five minutes. But content with no planning probably won’t hit the minimum of 1,000 views. Instead, you’ll need to spend some time storyboarding.
Start by looking at your existing Instagram content. How can a reel cohesively fit your profile? Does the content you’re creating add value?
If you’re stuck, look at your audience. What content would they want to see?
Use Trending Audio or Songs
A surefire way to make sure your content reaches a bigger audience is by hopping on a trend. If you can, use trending audio when you create your content to increase your reach.
Create Engaging Content
While trending audio can help, focus also on visually captivating edits and effects to make your content stand out.
Use quick cuts and snappy transitions between clips to add dynamism. Insert relevant text captions overlaid on clips to reinforce your message. Employ filters or fun face effects to match the mood of the sound. The Instagram camera in Stories has an array of options.
Instagram Reels Play Bonus Best Practices
As always, it’s important to play by the rules. Avoid getting penalized and make sure that your content is eligible for monetization.
Select Reels for the Reels Play Bonus Program
Just because you’re invited to the Reels Play Bonus Program doesn’t mean every single reel you post has the potential to earn you money. You can do this by going to the “Bonus” page and selecting “Reels Play Bonus.”
If you post a reel and forget to opt into the bonus program, you have 24 hours to make changes. To select a reel that was already posted, select “Edit” and go to the “Bonus” page. You can then monetize the reel by clicking “Reels Play Bonus.”
Follow The Copyright Rules
This one might seem simple, but it’s an important step. Once you’re invited into the Reels Play Bonus Program, you only get two strikes. If you get a third, you’ll be stuck with a 30-day suspension before you can start making money again.
In order to make sure your reels are eligible for the bonus program, they need to be 100% original content. Any reels that receive a copyright claim will be removed from the program. Additionally, reels that are paid sponsorships are not eligible for the Reels Play Bonus.
Related: Instagram Story Ideas To Boost Engagement
Final Thoughts
The Instagram Reels Play Bonus is a great way for creators to make money with their social media content without relying solely on advertisers. The program encourages creators to make more reels, which builds awareness for Instagram. Well-done reels will also increase engagement on the creator’s account, making the Reels Play Bonus a win-win for everyone.
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