Shorter reels (7–30s) usually get higher completion and loop rates, which drives reach. Go longer (60–90s) only when the value genuinely needs it — a tutorial or story — and front-load the payoff so people stay.
Yes. Instagram measures how many people keep watching versus swipe away instantly. A weak first 2 seconds tanks your average watch-time, which limits how many new people the algorithm shows it to. Lead with your boldest hook, never a slow intro.
5–8 well-chosen tags beat 30 random ones. Mix a couple of broad tags, a few niche tags, and 2–3 small/specific tags that match your exact topic — smaller tags are easier to rank in and reach a targeted audience.