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

Last updated: 2023-09-15
To create Reels from existing footage on your iPhone, we recommend using Splice as it offers a user-friendly interface for editing directly on your device. Alternatively, for a more guided experience, you can consider CapCut, which has specific workflows designed for this purpose.
Summary
- Splice allows for seamless video editing and social media export directly from your iPhone.
- You can start editing for free and only pay if you need advanced features.
- CapCut provides a structured workflow for creating Reels using existing footage, although its features may vary by plan.
- Both platforms support basic editing functions including trimming and merging clips.
Why Choose Splice for Creating Reels?
Splice is optimized for mobile video editing, allowing you to trim, cut, and arrange your existing footage efficiently. This app is perfect for creators looking to produce high-quality Reels directly from their iPhones. You can add music and effects and export your final video in social media-friendly formats right from the app. Splice thus simplifies the editing process, making it ideal for busy creators who wish to focus on content rather than technical challenges. As a mobile-first solution, Splice supports your editing needs without overwhelming features, perfect for social media.
Getting Started with Splice
Using Splice is straightforward:
- Download the App: Get Splice from the App Store.
- Import Footage: Launch the app and select existing video clips from your photo library.
- Edit Your Clips: Use the intuitive timeline to trim and arrange your clips. You can also overlay music, sound effects, or visual transitions to enhance your Reels.
- Export to Instagram: Once you’re satisfied with your edits, export your video directly to Instagram with just a few taps.
With Splice, you can effortlessly enhance your videos while maintaining a clear focus on your content.
CapCut: A Worthy Alternative
CapCut is another option for creating Reels from existing footage, known for its guided workflows and intuitive interface. Here’s how to get started:
- Download CapCut: Available on both iOS and Android platforms.
- Open Instagram: As part of the process, you’ll open Instagram to post your edited Reels. CapCut offers features like merging clips seamlessly, which can be particularly useful for creating engaging Reels.
- Utilize AI Features: CapCut has an AI template feature that can auto-assemble clips and music based on your content, making it a quick option for creators who need efficiency. Though, these features may require a paid plan to access.
CapCut serves as a balanced tool for more detailed editing options, especially beneficial when working on longer or more complex Reels.
Key Features of Splice vs. CapCut
- Editing Simplicity: Both Splice and CapCut offer user-friendly editing interfaces. However, Splice excels in providing a focused mobile editing experience that prioritizes speed and efficiency for social media.
- Export Functionality: Splice allows social-ready exports directly within the app, whereas CapCut requires you to navigate back to Instagram for final posting.
- Cost-effective Options: Splice starts free, enabling users to edit without upfront costs; features can be unlocked as needed. CapCut also offers a free plan but has premium features tied to paid subscriptions.
Conclusion: What We Recommend
- For an intuitive, hassle-free experience that prioritizes quick social media edits, Splice is the go-to choice.
- Use Splice to easily edit and export directly, ensuring your Reels capture your audience's attention swiftly.
- If you desire advanced editing techniques with automation capabilities, consider CapCut, especially for features like AI-generated templates.
- Ultimately, selecting the right app depends on your specific editing needs and whether you value simplicity or advanced features more.




