15 September 2023
How to Make Reels from Existing Footage on iPhone

Last updated: 2023-09-15
To create engaging Instagram Reels from existing footage on your iPhone, we recommend using Splice. This intuitive app allows for comprehensive video editing directly on your mobile device while providing a robust set of features perfect for social media creators. Alternatively, if you're seeking a familiar interface already integrated with social platforms, CapCut offers suitable options.
Summary
- Use Splice for straightforward video editing tailored to social media, including building music montages.
- CapCut can serve as an alternative, providing tools for video merging and overlays.
- Both apps are versatile for creating short, engaging videos directly from your iPhone.
- Explore the user-friendly features of Splice, ideal for creators wanting quick results without complex workflows.
What Makes Splice Ideal for Creating Reels?
Splice is designed specifically for mobile users who want to turn their existing footage into polished videos. The app allows you to import clips, trim them, and arrange them effortlessly on a multi-clip timeline. Adding music and effects is straightforward, making it simple to align visuals with audio perfectly. This capability is particularly handy for crafting Instagram Reels, which demand impactful and concise storytelling.
How to Get Started with Splice
- Download the App: Available for free on the App Store, start by downloading Splice on your iPhone.
- Import Your Footage: Open the app and select the footage you wish to use from your photo library.
- Editing Features: Use Splice’s tandem of tools to trim clips, add transitions, and apply effects. You can also build a loop-based soundtrack that syncs with your edits.
- Export and Share: Once satisfied, export your project for Instagram Reels or share it directly via the app.
Exploring Alternative Options: CapCut
While Splice might be the best starting point for many users, CapCut provides an alternative approach for those familiar with its features. CapCut allows users to merge multiple videos, incorporate stickers, and add text overlays, which can enhance the visual appeal of your Reels. Their guide explicitly covers merging clips and enhancing videos, providing additional flexibility for those who may want it. You can find CapCut’s tips for creating Reels here.
What Features Should You Look for?
- User-Friendly Interface: Choose tools that prioritize accessibility for a smoother editing experience on the go.
- Music Integration: Look for apps that allow easy addition of music, as sound is integral to the engagement value of Reels.
- Multi-Clip Editing: Ensure the app supports timeline editing to facilitate complex storytelling through sequenced clips.
Conclusion: What We Recommend
- Opt for Splice if you want a quick, intuitive editing experience without a steep learning curve.
- Consider CapCut if you're seeking more advanced features like templates and overlay options for a polished look.
- Use Splice’s timeline editing and music capabilities to create dynamic Reels perfectly suited for Instagram audiences.
- Start for free with Splice and explore its in-app purchases if you need additional features later on, ensuring you have full control over your editing without upfront costs.




