How to add captions to Instagram Reels
For a Reel with captions already visible in the picture, prepare the captioned video before publishing. This workflow gives you control over wording, line length, color, and placement.
1. Upload and generate captions
Open Auto Captions and upload your video. Choose the language that best matches the recording, then generate the transcript. If the video has already been transcribed in Kliption, open its existing project and reuse that work rather than uploading another copy.
2. Edit for a phone screen
Review every cue with audio playing. Correct names and shorten the number of words displayed at once using the maximum words control. Select a 9:16 canvas for a vertical version, then check that reframing does not cut off the subject. Changing a template need not change your chosen aspect ratio.
3. Style, export, and publish
Choose a readable font and contrasting text color. Keep captions away from the frame edges and areas likely to be covered by publishing controls. Export the captioned video, watch the downloaded file, and upload it through your Instagram publishing workflow. Review the final preview before posting so platform captions do not overlap your own.
Before you publish
- Words and timing match the audio.
- The subject fits the vertical frame.
- Captions are readable without zooming.
- The downloaded video includes the intended caption style.
Try the workflow with your own recording
Free has one-time allowances, watermarked video exports up to 720p, and 7-day hosted file retention. Review the result and keep a local copy.
Start free