Read this blog to get a concrete start on producing content to fill your content calendar. Using Canva, you can create both images and videos that perfectly align with your target audience.
Filling a content calendar can seem overwhelming, especially when working with different platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Each platform has its unique way of presenting content, and there are specific formats to consider as well. But don’t worry! With Canva, you can easily create visuals and videos in the correct formats. In this blog, we’ll dive into the formats for posts, reels, and stories, how to use them properly, and what your audience expects from each platform.
Why Are the Right Formats Important?
When creating content for social media, the correct image and video formats are crucial. The format determines how your content will be displayed on the user’s screen. Using the wrong format can lead to important parts of your image or video being cut off, or even reduce the quality. This impacts not only how appealing your content looks but also how professional your brand appears.
With Canva, you can easily create different formats that match the specific requirements of each platform. Let’s start with an overview of the key formats for the most popular platforms.
1. Instagram – Posts, Reels, and Stories
Instagram is a visual platform where users primarily consume photos and videos. However, not all content is the same, and each type has its own purpose and format:
Posts:
- Format: 1080x1080px (square) or 1080x1350px (portrait for more screen space)
- Audience behavior: Users scroll quickly through their feeds and often stop at eye-catching, visually appealing content. Ensure you use sharp, professional images with short and engaging captions.
- Tip: Carousel posts (multiple photos in one post) are a great way to boost engagement, as users spend more time scrolling through multiple images.
Reels:
- Format: 1080x1920px (portrait, full screen)
- Audience behavior: Short videos between 15 to 30 seconds get the most attention. Users want quick entertainment and expect catchy videos with a clear message.
- Tip: Use music or voice-overs for added impact. Most users watch reels without sound, so include subtitles or text overlays.
Stories:
- Format: 1080x1920px (portrait, full screen)
- Audience behavior: Instagram Stories are often used for quick, spontaneous updates or exclusive offers. Interaction is high through features like polls, questions, and sliders.
- Tip: Add a call-to-action, like “Swipe up” or “Answer the question” to increase engagement.
2. Facebook – Posts, Reels, and Stories
While Facebook originally focused on text-based posts, visual content has become increasingly important. Here too, using the right formats is essential for maximum impact.
Posts:
- Format: 1200x630px (landscape) or 1080x1350px (portrait)
- Audience behavior: Facebook users tend to be older than Instagram users and often spend more time viewing content. Longer texts can work, but always include an appealing visual.
- Tip: Use videos instead of just photos to boost engagement. Videos are shared more often than text or photo posts.
Reels:
- Format: 1080x1920px (portrait, full screen)
- Audience behavior: Facebook was a bit late to the game with Reels, but this format is quickly gaining popularity. Users here are more likely to watch videos to the end.
- Tip: Reels on Facebook can be slightly longer than on Instagram, but keep them short and impactful.
Stories:
- Format: 1080x1920px (portrait)
- Audience behavior: Like Instagram, Facebook Stories are used for quick updates. However, interaction is often lower due to the older audience.
- Tip: Use Facebook Stories for more casual content or cross-promotions with Instagram.
3. TikTok – Videos and Ads
TikTok is all about short videos, with creativity being the key driver. Speed, creativity, and viral trends are what this platform thrives on.
Videos (Posts and Ads):
- Format: 1080x1920px (portrait)
- Audience behavior: TikTok users tend to be younger and have shorter attention spans. They expect funny, creative, and fast-paced content. It’s important to grab attention in the first few seconds.
- Tip: Use popular sounds and hashtags to boost visibility.
TikTok Ads:
- Format: 1080x1920px (portrait)
- Audience behavior: TikTok Ads often blend in with organic videos, so try to make your ads look like regular content.
- Tip: Make your ads playful and take advantage of viral trends.
How the Audience Interacts with These Formats
Each platform has its own way of engaging with content:
- Instagram users are visually driven and have shorter attention spans. Reels and carousel posts work best for interaction.
- Facebook users take more time to consume content and are more likely to watch longer videos or read text-heavy posts.
- TikTok users expect fast, entertaining content and will quickly scroll past if the video doesn’t grab them in the first few seconds.
By using the correct formats, you can meet your audience’s expectations and increase your chances of success.
So, Start Filling Your Content Calendar with Canva Today!
Now that you know the exact formats to use and how your audience responds to them, you’re ready to start filling your content calendar. With Canva, you can easily create templates that perfectly match each platform, whether it’s Instagram posts, TikTok videos, or Facebook ads. Use the power of visual storytelling to grow your brand and build an engaged audience. Good luck with creating your content!
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