Guides

How a Phone Teleprompter App Can Help You Create Better Instagram Videos

By
Teleprompter Team
March 3, 2023
·
8
minutes
How a Phone Teleprompter App Can Help You Create Better Instagram Videos

Are you tired of stumbling over your words or constantly having to re-record your Reels? Well, fear not! Discover how to use a teleprompter app to elevate your Instagram Reels, making your video creation process smoother and more efficient

With just a few taps on your phone, you can have your very own personal teleprompter right at your fingertips. Not only does it make filming a breeze, but it'll also help you stay on message and save time in the process. Consider this: since the launch of Reels in August 2020, approximately 41% of Instagram users have dabbled in creating their own Reels. This wide adoption underscores the feature's popularity and potential for content creators. So let’s explore and learn how a phone teleprompter app can take your Instagram Reels to the next level!

Why Use a Teleprompter App?

First of all, let's talk about how a phone teleprompter app can help you create high-quality Instagram Reels. Reels are without a doubt the best-performing content on the app (even if we wish we could go back to the pretty pictures days *sigh*) and being able to consistently post and experiment with Reels gives your content the best chance of high engagement. By learning how to use a teleprompter app on your phone, you can ensure that your Reels are smooth, polished, and professional-looking from the first take so you can create more with less work. 

old school teleprompter device

Benefits of Using Teleprompter

Teleprompters can be a huge help to easing those little green light nerves. With the text right in front of you, you can confidently speak to your audience and connect with them in a more authentic way without your eyes darting to your notes or mumbling and fumbling while you try to remember a product name or detail.

Plus, using a phone teleprompter app can help you save time during the video creation process. Instead of having to constantly re-record your videos or spend time memorizing your script, you can simply read from the teleprompter and get your Reels done in a snap. Content creation is only part of the job, and less time spent editing means more time engaging with your audience.

But don't just take our word for it! There are plenty of successful Instagram content creators out there who swear by phone teleprompter apps, from those just starting out to accounts with millions of followers. Just look at the thousands of reviews for Teleprompter on the App Store to get an idea of the kinds of content creators upping their creation game for Instagram Reels and beyond. 

How a Phone Teleprompter App Works for Instagram Reels

teleprompter app for Instagram videos

So, you're ready to take the plunge and try out a phone teleprompter app for your Instagram Reels creation? Awesome! Now that you know why to use a teleprompter, let's talk about how most teleprompter apps actually work and how these top features can help you create killer videos.

On the most basic level, a teleprompter app functions by displaying your script or text in large, easy-to-read font on your phone screen and automatically scrolling the text to match your place in the script. You simply set the speed at which you want the text to scroll, hit play, and start recording. As you speak, the text will scroll up the screen, allowing you to read it without breaking eye contact with the camera. Just don’t forget to blink!

Beyond that basic functionality of script rolling, here are four essential features that take a phone teleprompter from good to fricking fantastic. 

1. Script customizability 

One of the most important features is the ability to customize your script to suit your needs. You can adjust the font size and color, as well as the speed at which the text scrolls, to make sure it's easy for you to read and follow along with.

The best teleprompter apps will have multiple scription customization options and the ability to save presets so you can have a read time and font size that is *perfect* for you. 

2. Pausing your recording and your script simultaneously

Another useful feature is the ability to pause and resume the teleprompter at any time. This can come in handy if you need to take a break, adjust your lighting or background, or just collect your thoughts before continuing. There’s plenty to think about, but the fear of losing a recording because of a hiccup or off-camera distraction shouldn’t be one of them. 

3. Working without wifi

Remote locations and the Reel of a lifetime after a hike or a run make for incredible content. And you don’t want to wonder about a spotty internet connection when you start recording! 

Make sure that the phone teleprompter app you choose will work without an internet connection so you can create unforgettable content no matter where you are.

4. Working with other devices

Sure, you’re recording on your phone, but that doesn’t mean you necessarily want to edit and upload from it too.  

Choose a teleprompter app that will work with multiple devices and save the footage to the cloud. That way you can shoot with your phone, edit on your desktop, and upload from any device without missing a beat or transferring files.  

All of these features aren’t available in all teleprompter apps, but the best phone teleprompter apps, like Teleprompter, will have them standard. 

And if you’re looking for a comparison of Teleprompter apps for Mac or iPad, we’ve got you covered with a roundup of the best iPad Teleprompter apps

Getting comfortable with using a Teleprompter for recording Instagram Reels

Now that the basic features are out of the way, let's talk how-to’s for Instagram video creation. Here are some tailored tips to help you master the art of teleprompter usage for Instagram Reels, starting with pre-recording pre.

1. Write out your script or talking points

a woman using smartphone

Writing out every single word is overkill and will make you sound stilted or rehearsed (Anchorman, anyone?). Instead, make your notes a highlights reel of what you want to speak on and key details you don’t want to forget. 

Depending on what you’re talking about, that can include:

  • dates or times
  • brand names (and their pronunciation)
  • prices or stats
  • the name of other Reels or content that you’re referencing
  • sound effects you want to make i.e., “click tongue” 
  • facial expressions to drive a point home “eye roll”

Keep in mind that you don't need to memorize every word - the teleprompter app will do that work for you! 

2. Get ready for your main character moment 

Use a tripod or other stabilizing device to keep your phone steady and at the right angle. You can prop it against a shelf, on a stair, or a stack of books if you don’t have a tripod handy. 

  • Gently clean off the camera lens and make sure there are no smudges to dull your glow. 
  • Make sure you're recording in a well-lit space, preferably with Natural light
  • Minimize background noise. Bluetooth headphones or a small microphone (even the one on most wired headphones) can be a huge help to clear audio even when you can’t control the volume of your surroundings. 

3. Practice makes polished

Finally, make sure to practice a few times before hitting record. Even better if you practice just like you would when you record. Set up your camera, get your lighting positioned, and start your teleprompter. 

content creator doing livestream
  • Remember to speak slowly and clearly. The app will scroll the text for you, so there's no need to rush through your lines. 
  • Enunciate clearly, so your audience can easily follow along.
  • Experiment with your phrasing to showcase your personality on camera.

This will help you get comfortable with using a teleprompter and help you adjust the settings before you hit record.  And always, take a deep breath before hitting record. You got this!

Creative Content Ideas: Scriptwriting Tips for Instagram Reels

Crafting the perfect script for your Instagram Reels can feel like trying to fit a novel into a tweet. But fear not! With the right approach, your Reels can capture hearts, laughs, and follows in just a few seconds. Here’s how to pen down those winning scripts that make your audience hit replay and, more importantly, that follow button.

Start with a Bang!

Your opening is the hook that will reel viewers in. Think of it as your first impression – you’ve got a mere couple of seconds to grab attention. Start with something unexpected, a bold statement, or a burning question. "Ever wondered why flamingos are pink?" This kind of opener not only piques curiosity but also promises something interesting is about to unfold.

Keep It Snappy

The beauty of Reels lies in their brevity, so every word in your script needs to pack a punch. Aim for clarity and conciseness. Instead of saying, "In this video, I’m going to show you the three most effective exercises for a full-body workout," trim it down to "Three exercises. Full body. Let’s go." This direct approach respects your audience's time and keeps them engaged.

Show, Don’t Tell

Visual storytelling is your ally. Use your script to guide the visuals, not overshadow them. If your script mentions a stunning sunrise, make sure the visuals deliver. Let your audience see the beauty rather than just hearing about it. This synergy between your script and visuals makes for a more immersive and memorable Reel.

End with Impact

Your closing is as crucial as your opening. It’s your moment to leave a lasting impression or drive action. Whether it’s a call to laugh, think, or act, make it clear and compelling. "Tap that follow for more hidden gems!" or "Swipe up to seize the day!" A strong call to action (CTA) can transform passive viewers into active followers and customers.

By crafting compelling openings, delivering concise and impactful messages, and ending with strong calls to action, your Instagram Reels will not only captivate your audience but also encourage them to engage with your content in meaningful ways. The best scripts for Reels are those that marry brevity with storytelling, leaving your viewers wanting more.

Taking Your Instagram Reels Further with a Teleprompter App

There you have it! A phone teleprompter app is a game-changer when it comes to creating high-quality Instagram videos. With just a few minutes of setup, it can dramatically improve your confidence on camera, cut down on your editing time, and help you create more authentic content with ease. 

Whether you're a seasoned Instagram content creator or just starting out, a phone teleprompter app is a must-have tool in your arsenal. And with the tips and best practices we've shared with you, you'll be creating professional-looking Instagram Reels in no time.

Looking for a phone teleprompter app to get you started? Try Teleprompter! It’s beloved by 6.5K+ creators and has been used to record over 17 Million (yes, million!) videos since 2018. It works with any iOS device and you can try it for free. 

So what are you waiting for? Give the Teleprompter app a try and see for yourself how it can help take your Instagram Reels to the next level. Happy creating!

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