Sound Off: Working with sounds, effects and filters (Reels/Shorts Series)

You know how to record, now let's talk production value! Let's talk about sounds, effects, and filters and how to use them.

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LJ Barnum & Fahad
January 24, 2025

Now that you know what’s up with reels and can use transitions, we thought it was time to talk about sounds and stuff.

(Specifically sounds, filters, and effects.)

You’ll remember from the reels overview we talked about the algorithm briefly and a simplified version of how that ish works.

What should we cover in February?

As we close out January's reel's series, what should we focus on next?

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Do sounds and effects matter?

There’s correlations between the sounds and effects we use and the amount of engagement.

(Remember? Algo pushes like content?)

So for you it makes sense to use popular sounds and effects for brand awareness…with some considerations.

Effects

Effects are a hit or miss. There’s no way around it. 

If you’re scrolling Instagram Reels (ya, we know TikTok survived) and see someone with viral numbers using an effect…then another with 11 views? Normal.

(Nothing we can do about it.)

Another side to this is the #SilenceBrand movement which is essentially the desire to kick all brands from social media and just let it be users.

Again. Nothing we can do about it, just something to be aware of while we’re using them.

#BlockinOutTheHaters

Filters

If you have a lifestyle aspect to your brand? 

Skip em. Go au natural. Get in touch with your inner raccoon or whatever.

If your content has nothing to do with being a bona fide Kardashian, then have at it.

It’s best to have content professionally color corrected.

Sounds

Sounds are good for everyone!

But they’re not available for all accounts. (RIP.)

Yep, business accounts are restricted from using most sounds by commercial license agreements.

So the question becomes…are ads important to you at all?

If not, switch your account to personal and keep pushing that agenda.

If yes, then you should keep a business account.

Either way you should have a bio link with analytics and measuring.

There’s only one tool we trust ‘round these parts (aheh). TrendTok.

And for the other side of “what to post” use ReelTrends.

(Or just be creative and see what takes off.)

That’s the goal at the end of the day – to be creative. Don’t forget that!

If you need some help beyond the campaign ideas this week, don’t forget to ask!

This Week’s Campaigns

Real Estate

Local Market Predictions

Sometimes it’s great to be like everyone else…with your added flair! Offer your expert opinion on upcoming trends in your local real estate market, providing valuable information for buyers and sellers. Bonus points if you make this into two videos!

Mental Health

Setting Realistic Goals

Guide viewers on setting achievable goals, breaking them down into smaller steps, and celebrating progress along the way.

Retail/E-Commerce

Creative Ways to Use [Your Product]

What’s the wrong way to use your product? Inspire your audience with unique and unexpected ways to use your product, expanding its appeal and potential applications. Plus score some points with the funny crowd.

Thanks for reading! See you next week!!!

Fahad & LJ