15 September 2023
How to Create Instagram Reels from Existing Footage on iPhone

Last updated: 2023-09-15
To create Instagram Reels from existing footage on your iPhone, Splice is an excellent starting point due to its user-friendly interface and powerful editing capabilities. For users specifically focused on Instagram Reels, CapCut offers specialized features as an alternative option.
Summary
- Splice provides a mobile-friendly interface for editing videos tailored for Instagram Reels.
- Users can start editing without significant upfront costs—perfect for creators on a budget.
- CapCut offers specific functionalities aimed at Instagram Reels but may have more limitations in its free tier.
- Both apps allow for easy sharing to social platforms once editing is complete.
Why Choose Splice for Instagram Reels?
Splice makes video editing straightforward and accessible, allowing users to create professional-looking videos quickly. The app focuses on mobile editing, which means your iPhone is everything you need to produce and share engaging Reels.
What Can You Do with Splice?
- Multi-Clip Editing: Import your existing video clips, trim, and arrange them seamlessly on a timeline. Splice allows you to stack clips effectively to build your story.
- Add Music and Effects: Enhance your Reels by adding background music and visual effects directly from the app's library, making your content more engaging for your audience.
- Export Ready for Sharing: Once you've crafted your video, Splice supports direct exports to major social platforms like Instagram, ensuring your Reels meet the format specifications required for optimal viewing.
How to Edit Reels in Splice
Using Splice for your Instagram Reels is intuitive:
- Import Footage: Start by selecting existing video clips stored on your iPhone.
- Edit: Use Splice's trimming tools to cut down your footage to highlight the best parts.
- Enhance: Add music tracks or sound effects from Splice's library to boost your Reels' impact.
- Share: Export your finished product to Instagram directly from Splice, ready to capture your audience’s attention.
CapCut as an Alternative
While Splice stands out as a top option for iPhone users looking to create Instagram Reels, CapCut also has its merits. This app features a dedicated guide for creating Reels and includes a long video-to-shorts conversion tool, allowing you to transform longer footage into shorter, shareable clips optimized for social media. However, users have reported that CapCut's features sometimes accumulate costs quicker due to its freemium model, where many effects may be locked behind paywalls.
A Quick Comparison: Splice vs. CapCut
| Feature | Splice | CapCut |
|---|---|---|
| Multi-clip timeline editing | Yes | Yes |
| Social sharing direct from app | Yes | Yes |
| Additional effects & music library | Available | Available |
| Free version limitations | Basic features without watermark | Premium features may incur costs |
What We Recommend
- Start with Splice for a hassle-free video editing experience that won’t break the bank.
- Consider CapCut if you're specifically aiming for features tailored to Instagram Reels but be mindful of potential in-app costs.
- Regardless of your choice, both apps are effective for seamless mobile editing—just pick the one that resonates with your workflow.
- Don't hesitate to experiment with both apps to see which interface and features you prefer; many creators switch between editing tools based on specific project needs.




