Create Social Media Videos with Framesurfer: Practical Guide to Reels, Stories, and Shorts

With 110 million users engaging with branded video content daily, social media video templates have become the secret weapon for content creators and businesses alike. These proven designs don't just save time—they deliver results. Templates built on engagement psychology generate 11 times more shares than custom designs from scratch. Whether you're managing multiple accounts or creating your first video, discover how AI-powered templates can transform your social media presence.

Why Use Framesurfer for Social Video

Framesurfer helps you build social-first videos quickly using a visual editor, scenes, AI-generated backgrounds, and a credit-based workflow. No template library is required—create reusable scenes with text and media, then export MP4s optimized for each platform.

•Save 5+ hours per week on content creation

•Maintain consistent branding across platforms

•Built-in engagement triggers proven to work

•Auto-optimized for each platform's algorithm

•No design skills required

Platform Guidelines and Recommended Settings

Use these recommendations to tailor content for each platform. Keep a strong hook, readable text, and clear calls to action.

instagram

stories:1080x1920 (9:16), 10–30s, bold captions

reels:9:16, fast hook in 3s, clear CTA

posts:1:1 or 4:5, concise copy, strong thumbnail

image:/blog/image-gen-google/blog-social-media-templates-instagram.webp

tiktok

trending:9:16, punchy cuts, on-screen text

educational:Short tips with large readable text

promotional:Product focus + benefit-first messaging

image:/blog/image-gen-google/blog-social-media-templates-tiktok.webp

youtube

shorts:9:16, 15–60s, narrative hook

intros:Branded intro scene built in Framesurfer

outros:CTA end card with brand and link

image:/blog/image-gen-google/blog-social-media-templates-youtube.webp

How to Customize Templates with AI

Framesurfer's AI doesn't just offer templates—it personalizes them. Upload your brand kit once, and AI automatically applies your colors, fonts, and logo to any template.

Create a project

Start a new project, pick your canvas size (9:16 for Reels/Stories/Shorts), and name your video.

Add scenes and media

Use the visual editor to add scenes, text, and media. Generate background images with AI or upload your own assets.

Refine and export

Adjust timing, layout, and copy. Render and export MP4. Use credits for AI generation when needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What video dimensions should I use for Instagram Reels versus TikTok?

Both Instagram Reels and TikTok use a vertical 9:16 aspect ratio at 1080x1920 pixels. Instagram Reels supports videos up to 90 seconds, while TikTok allows up to 10 minutes, though videos under 60 seconds tend to perform best on both platforms.

Can I use the same video across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts?

Yes, a single 9:16 vertical video at 1080x1920 works across all three platforms without re-editing. Minor adjustments like safe zone padding for text and captions may be needed since each platform overlays UI elements at different screen positions.

How does AI-generated background video work in Framesurfer?

Framesurfer uses AI models to generate short video clips from text prompts, which are then set as scene backgrounds. You describe the visual you want, and the AI renders a matching clip that plays behind your text, captions, or other elements.

Do I need video editing experience to create social media videos with Framesurfer?

No prior editing experience is required. Framesurfer's visual editor uses a scene-based approach where you add text, choose backgrounds, and apply transitions through a drag-and-drop interface. The AI assistant can also generate a complete video from a text prompt.

What is the recommended video length for YouTube Shorts versus Instagram Reels?

YouTube Shorts performs best at 15 to 60 seconds, with the algorithm favoring videos that are watched to completion. Instagram Reels between 7 and 15 seconds tend to see the highest completion rates, though longer Reels up to 90 seconds work well for tutorial-style content.