8 min read

How to Add Captions & Subtitles to Instagram Reels

You want to generate subtitles and captions for your Instagram Reels ? Here's what you need to know.
Written by
Jean-Marc
Published on
January 31, 2025
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Instagram provides built-in captioning tools, including auto-generated captions and manual text editing for Reels.

However, it might not be the most more polished and professional approach,

In this guide, we’ll explore different ways to add captions and subtitles to your Instagram Reels.

Does Instagram Reels Have Auto Captions?

Yes, Instagram Reels has an auto-caption feature that automatically converts spoken words into text. Initially, auto-generated captions were introduced for Stories and later expanded to Reels. This feature utilizes speech recognition technology to transcribe spoken words into text, displaying them in sync with the audio.

As of now, Instagram supports auto-generated captions in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, Arabic, Vietnamese, Italian, German, Turkish, Russian, Thai, Tagalog, Urdu, Malay, Hindi, Indonesian, and Japanese. This multilingual support enables creators to reach a broader audience by making content more accessible across different regions.

To enable auto-captions on Instagram Reels, users can utilize the "Captions" sticker during the editing process. After recording or uploading a Reel, tapping the sticker icon and selecting "Captions" will prompt Instagram to automatically transcribe the audio. Users can then review and edit the captions for accuracy before publishing.

Despite its benefits, Instagram’s auto-captioning tool has limited customization. You can adjust the text style, size, and position, but more advanced features like detailed timing adjustments or font selections are unavailable.

How to Use Instagram Auto Captions on Reels

Instagram’s built-in feature generates subtitles automatically, allowing you to make your content more accessible without extra effort. Follow these steps to enable and edit auto captions for your videos.

Step 1: Record or Upload Your Reel

Open the Instagram app and navigate to the Reels section. Record a new video or upload an existing one from your camera roll. Make sure the audio is clear, as Instagram’s speech recognition system works best with minimal background noise.

Step 2: Access the Captions Feature

Once you finish recording or uploading, proceed to the editing screen. Tap the sticker icon at the top of the screen, then select the “Captions” sticker from the list of available options.

Step 3: Generate and Review Captions

Instagram will automatically transcribe the spoken words in your video. This process takes only a few seconds. Once the captions appear, review them carefully. AI-generated captions can sometimes contain errors, especially with accents, slang, or fast speech.

Step 4: Edit Captions for Accuracy

Tap on the captions to edit any mistakes. Instagram allows you to correct misheard words, remove unnecessary text, and refine the timing of the captions. Ensuring accuracy is important because incorrect captions can confuse viewers or misrepresent your message.

Step 5: Customize the Captions’ Appearance

Instagram gives you basic customization options. You can change the font style, color, and position of the captions to match your video’s aesthetics. However, you cannot adjust the timing or add effects beyond these settings.

Step 6: Publish Your Reel

Once you’re happy with your captions, tap “Done” to save them. Proceed with adding any final edits, filters, or effects to your Reel. When you’re ready, tap “Share” to publish your video.

How to Add Captions Manually on Reels

If you prefer more control over your captions, Instagram allows you to add them manually. This option is useful when auto captions do not generate accurate results or if you want to style the captions uniquely. Here’s how to manually add captions to your Reels.

Step 1: Record or Upload Your Reel

Begin by recording a new video or uploading an existing one. Make sure the audio is clear, so you can easily transcribe it into text manually.

Step 2: Tap the ‘Text’ Tool

On the editing screen, tap the ‘Aa’ icon at the top. This will open the text editor, allowing you to enter captions manually.

Step 3: Type Your Captions

Manually enter the captions that match your spoken words. Keep them concise and easy to read. If your video has multiple speech segments, consider using separate text boxes for different parts.

Step 4: Set Duration for Captions

After typing the captions, tap on the text and select “Set Duration.” Use the timeline to match the caption timing with the spoken words, ensuring synchronization.

Step 5: Adjust Caption Style

Customize the font, color, size, and background of your captions to match the video’s theme. Ensure high contrast for better readability, especially for viewers watching on mobile devices.

Step 6: Preview and Finalize

Play your video to check if the captions are correctly placed and timed. Make any necessary adjustments, then proceed with posting your Reel.

How to Turn Off Captions on Instagram Reels

If you no longer want to see captions on Instagram Reels, you can disable them easily. Here’s how to turn off captions for Reels:

Step 1: Open Instagram Settings

  • Tap on your profile icon in the bottom right corner of the app.
  • Tap the three horizontal lines in the top-right corner to access the menu.
  • Select Settings and Privacy from the list.

Step 2: Navigate to the Captions Setting

  • Scroll down and tap Accessibility.
  • Look for the Captions & Subtitles option and tap on it.

Step 3: Disable Captions

  • Toggle the Show Captions switch off to stop captions from appearing on videos.
  • Once disabled, Instagram will no longer display captions for any Reels that have auto-captioning enabled.

Step 4: Hide Captions on a Specific Reel

If you want to hide captions on just one Reel while watching:

  • Long-press on the caption text while viewing the Reel.
  • Tap the Hide Captions option that appears in the pop-up menu.
  • The captions will disappear from the video.

How to Generate Quality Instagram Captions & Subtitles

For a more professional approach to subtitling, consider using an AI-powered subtitle editor like Checksub. This platform simplifies the process and offers advanced customization options:

Step 1: Upload Your Video

Log into Checksub and upload your Reel. The platform supports multiple video formats, making it easy to work with different types of content.

Step 2: Generate Subtitles

Checksub uses AI-powered speech recognition to transcribe the audio. This process only takes a few minutes, depending on video length. Once complete, review and edit the subtitles to ensure accuracy.

Step 3: Customize and Export

Checksub allows you to customize the font, color, size, and effects to match your brand. Once satisfied, export the video with embedded subtitles and upload it to Instagram.

By following these steps, you can enhance your Instagram Reels with high-quality captions, ensuring your content is accessible and engaging for a broader audience.

Want to generate quality Instagram Subtitles ? Try Checksub for free.

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