New to reels? Start Here with these easy ideas you can try today
Not sure what to post as a reel? Feel like everyone else is a pro and you’re just… stuck?
Here’s the good news: reels don’t have to be fancy, edited, or on trend. They just have to be you. And the even better news? You already have everything you need to make one: your phone, your everyday life, and a tiny bit of curiosity.
Let’s make your first few reels as easy as possible. No transitions. No dancing. No voiceovers unless you want to.
Here are some low-effort, beginner-friendly reel ideas anyone can try.
1. What’s on your table right now?
Literally. Turn on the camera and show your desk, your cup of chai, your book pile, whatever’s in front of you. Add some soft music and you’re done.
2. Show your snack or meal
No cooking needed. Just film your plate and add text like “Evening snack” or “My coffee time is sacred.”
3. Recommend one book, show, or movie
Hold up the book to the camera. Or show the movie/ show poster. Add a line of text: “If you liked XYZ, you’ll love this.”
You don’t even have to speak.
4. Film your view from your window, your walk, or your ride
This is an easy win. Just capture a few seconds of trees, buildings, rain, whatever you see. Add a chill song or a quote on screen.
5. What’s in your bag?
Keep it casual. Show 3–5 items you carry every day: charger, lip balm, headphones, maybe something quirky? Add quick text labels and you’re good to post.
6. How you unwind after work
Light a candle? Watch Netflix? Scroll endlessly? Film a 5-second clip and share it. Relatable content always works.
7. Write one line on screen
Open the reel editor (Canva has many free templates you can use too), choose a plain background or photo, and type something like:
“Reminder: You don’t need a niche to create.”
That’s it. It counts as a reel.
8. Use a trending audio just for fun
Pick any trending audio and lip-sync or vibe to it. Or just play it while showing something basic (like your latte or your pet). It still works.
9. Film a mini routine
Your morning routine. Or how you set up your workspace. Or even how you make your bed. Simple stuff, real life.
10. Show how you made your reel
Meta and fun. Record yourself editing or captioning a reel. People love behind-the-scenes.
Keep it real, not perfect
The first reel doesn’t have to be the best. It just has to, well… exist.
So instead of hyperventilating, pick one idea above, film something short (even 5 seconds is enough), add a bit of text or audio and hit post.
You’re a reel creator now. Welcome.
