Today we’re talking about how to search, save, and use audio for Instagram Reels. If you’re new to Instagram Reels or just can’t figure out how to use a certain audio clip on Instagram Reels, we’re going to break down exactly how to do that! These tips are super easy and will help you create the Reels you’ve been planning, so let’s jump into how to use audios on Instagram Reels! 

How to search for audio…

The first step to search for audio on Instagram Reels is to go to the explore page in the Instagram app. It’s the magnifying glass at the bottom of Instagram! Hit that icon and hit “search” at the top, then select “audio” underneath the search bar. Obviously this is the place to go if you’re looking for a specific song or sound. If you want to use audio that someone else has used in their Instagram Reel, you need to just tap on the sound and literally the audio will pop up with the sound you can then use. These will often say “original audio”, which means they likely brought the sound over from Tik Tok. Of course, it could also be someone else’s audio that they created in Reels, too. Regardless, if you hit “use audio” on that screen, you’ll immediately be taken to the Instagram Reels creator page. 

Adding background music…

If you’ve decided to use an “original audio” sound for your Instagram Reel where someone is talking, you can still add background music to your Reel to make it your own! This happens sometimes when you go to use the audio – the actual voice over doesn’t transfer. It’s usually because they added music after the fact and that’s what Instagram is connecting with. 

How to use saved audio…

If you’ve watched other videos, you know that I recommend saving the audio or sound you want to use later when you create Reels. So, when you’re ready to make your Reels, navigate to your Instagram profile. Then, tap the three lines in the upper right hand corner. Hit “saved” and then you’ll be able to see your audio folder which holds all of your sounds and audio that you’ve saved! To use any of the audio, hit “use audio” at the very bottom – and now you’re in the creator! 

Another way to navigate to the sounds is through the Instagram Reels editor. If you’re in the screen where you can create Reels, hit the music icon and tap “saved” at the top of your list. Here’s all of your saved audio again! Select the sound you want and film those Reels! 

I find that I typically save the Reels I want to recreate or that inspires me instead of actually saving the audio. Remember, it’s not about copying someone – it’s about following the trend that someone has started. If you see a Reel you like, save the video and and the audio and you’ll be able to review them later to see the trend when you go to create the Reel. 

No “use audio” button? 

If you don’t have access to a lot of music or aren’t able to save the sounds the way you want, check if your profile is set to a business profile or creator. If you’re not a creator, change over! For most people, that seems to be an easy fix! 

I hope these tips help you feel more confident to use audio on Instagram Reels! As you start exploring Instagram Reels, make sure to check out my 10 ideas for Instagram Reels you can create today! Download the FREE ideas here!