Search Reels on Instagram Using Hashtags and Filters
Learn how to search Instagram Reels using hashtags, filters, and audio trends to uncover niche content, track trends, and refine discovery results.
Search Reels on Instagram Using Hashtags and Filters
Instagram Reels are one of the fastest-growing formats on the platform, and knowing how to search Reels on Instagram effectively can help you uncover fresh ideas, trending topics, and niche communities. Whether you’re a creator, marketer, or casual user, mastering search techniques with hashtags and filters ensures you find the most relevant and engaging content without wasting time.
In this guide, you’ll learn proven strategies for discovering Reels using hashtags, filters, and Instagram’s native tools — plus tips for refining your results to match your interests and goals.
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Understanding Instagram Reels and Why Search Matters
Instagram Reels are short, vertical videos lasting up to 90 seconds. They often feature music, editing effects, and captions, and appear in Explore feeds, hashtags pages, and creator profiles, offering high discovery potential.
Key reasons to search for Reels:
- Content inspiration – Identify trending topics in your niche.
- Audience engagement – Connect with creators and communities aligned with your brand.
- Trend tracking – Monitor viral sounds, hashtags, and challenges for timely participation.
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Use the Instagram Search Bar to Find Reels by Hashtags
The simplest way to search for Reels is through Instagram’s search bar.
Steps:
- Tap the magnifying glass icon to open the Search tab.
- Enter a relevant hashtag, such as `#veganrecipes`.
- Select the hashtag page and explore its dedicated Reels section.
Hashtags work like category markers, guiding you to precisely targeted content.
Pro Tip: Combine hashtags to narrow results — for example, `#digitalart #procreate` to find highly specific creative content.
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Explore Trending Audio and Songs for Relevant Reels Content
Instagram offers searchable audio pages, many of which correspond with viral videos and trends.
To search by audio:
- Open the search bar and switch to the Audio tab.
- Tap a track to see Reels that use that sound.
Benefits:
- Jump on trending challenges early.
- Discover innovative styles linked to popular songs.
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Search Reels via Creator Profiles and Niche Communities
When you know a creator specializes in your desired content:
- Visit their profile.
- Tap the Reels tab (film icon).
- Browse all their videos.
Joining niche communities amplifies discovery, as creators often re-share or tag peers producing similar Reels.
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Filter Reels Results by Keywords, Location, and Content Type
While Instagram’s native search lacks complex filters, you can enhance results by:
- Adding keywords alongside hashtags.
- Applying location tags for city- or venue-specific Reels.
- Targeting content types like tutorials, memes, or lifestyle posts.
Example Search Query:
#streetphotography TokyoHere, “Tokyo” acts as a keyword filter, delivering both location-based and thematic relevance.
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Utilize Saved Reels and Likes to Refine Future Searches
Instagram’s algorithm adapts to your interactions:
- Saved Reels serve as bookmarks you can revisit.
- Liked Reels signal preferred content types to Instagram.
Over time, your Explore feed reflects these preferences, indirectly evolving your search experience.
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Follow Hashtag Pages to Get Reels in Your Explore Feed
Following a hashtag integrates its Reels into your timeline and Explore feed. This keeps you updated on trending content in your niche without repeating manual searches.
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Engage with Searched Reels to Improve Algorithm Recommendations
Your engagement patterns inform Instagram’s recommendation engine. Actions like:
- Comments
- Shares
- Complete views
...increase the likelihood of similar content appearing for you later.
Quick Engagement Tips:
- Post thoughtful comments on creator Reels.
- Share informative Reels through direct messages.
- Re-watch valuable Reels for repeated visibility.
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Use Third-Party Tools for Advanced Reel Discovery
Certain external tools can help analyze hashtags and trends while staying within Instagram’s Terms of Service.
Examples:
- Social listening platforms
- Hashtag trend analyzers
- Scheduling apps with built-in discovery features
Avoid apps that scrape private data or automate prohibited actions.
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Stay Updated on Instagram Search Feature Enhancements
Instagram regularly rolls out search updates. Potential improvements include:
- More granular filters
- Enhanced audio discovery tools
- AI-powered suggestions
Tip: Follow the official Instagram Creators account for verified news.
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Analyze Viewer Metrics from Discovered Reels for Inspiration
Studying performance metrics from Reels you find can guide your own strategy.
| Metric | Why It Matters | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|
| Views | Shows overall reach | Create similar high-demand topics |
| Likes | Indicates user approval | Adopt styles that resonate with audiences |
| Comments | Signals community interaction | Encourage feedback within your own Reels |
| Shares | Highlights viral potential | Produce content geared for easy sharing |
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Tips to Avoid Irrelevant or Spammy Reels
- Be specific: Choose targeted hashtags, not broad ones.
- Block spam accounts: Reduce low-quality search results.
- Review hashtags before following: Avoid spam-heavy hashtags.
- Refresh searches regularly: Trends change; stay current.
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Summary
Effectively searching Reels on Instagram boosts your ability to discover quality content, monitor trends, and build valuable connections. Use hashtags, location filters, engagement signals, and even external tools to curate a personalized feed. Keep up with Instagram feature updates and apply insights from your searches to elevate your own content strategy.
Ready to start? Open Instagram now and experiment with hashtags and filters to find Reels that inspire — and give your own videos the spotlight they deserve.
