How to Make a Video on Facebook for Free

Making a video for Facebook doesn't require a Hollywood budget or complicated software. You can create engaging, effective videos entirely for free using tools you likely already have. This guide will walk you through exactly how to do it, from simple slideshows made right on Facebook to polished vertical videos created with powerful free apps.

Why Video on Facebook is Non-Negotiable

Before jumping into the "how," it's worth remembering the "why." Video isn't just another content type, it's the dominant format on social media. Facebook's algorithm prioritizes video, especially Reels because it keeps users on the platform longer. For a brand, creator, or small business, this means more reach and higher engagement than static photos or text-only posts.

There are three primary ways to post videos on Facebook, and each serves a different purpose:

• In-Feed Videos: These are your traditional landscape or square videos that appear in your followers' news feeds. They are ideal for tutorials, announcements, or short documentaries.
• Facebook Reels: Short-form, vertical videos (up to 90 seconds) designed for viral discovery. They lean on trends, humor, and quick, valuable tips.
• Facebook Live: Live-streamed video for real-time engagement. Perfect for Q&As, behind-the-scenes looks, or event coverage.

Understanding these formats helps you decide what kind of video to make. For this guide, we'll focus on creating prerecorded in-feed videos and Reels, as they form the foundation of most video strategies.

The Easiest Method: Creating Videos Directly in Facebook

Facebook gives you several built-in tools to create simple but effective videos without ever leaving the app. This is the best place to start if you're new to video creation.

Method 1: The Simple Slideshow Video

Don't have any video clips? No problem. If you have at least three photos, you can create a video slideshow in minutes. This is perfect for showcasing product photos, recapping an event, or creating a quick "listicle" style post.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. On your Facebook Page or profile, start creating a post by clicking on "Photo/Video."
2. Select "Create Slideshow."
3. In the settings that pop up, you can adjust the Aspect Ratio (choose 1:1 for square or 9:16 for vertical/Reels), Image Duration (how long each photo stays on screen), and Transition (Fade or None).
4. Next, under the Music tab, you can add a soundtrack from Facebook’s royalty-free collection. Sort by genre or mood to find something that fits.
5. Click the "Upload Photos" button and select the images you want to use. You need between a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 10.
6. Once your photos are uploaded, click "Create Slideshow."
7. Wait for Facebook to process it, then add a compelling description, relevant hashtags, and hit "Post."

Method 2: Making Facebook Reels In-App

Reels are one of the most powerful ways to get organic reach on Facebook. The in-app editor provides all the basic tools you need to create a trendy, engaging video for free.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Open the Facebook app and tap the "+" icon at the top right, then select "Reel."
2. You can either record clips directly by pressing the record button or upload pre-recorded videos and photos from your camera roll by tapping the gallery icon in the bottom-left corner.
3. Once you have your clips, it's time to edit using the tools on the right-hand side of the screen:
   • Audio: Tap this to search for trending music or use original audio. Using popular songs can help your Reel get seen by more people.
   • Text: Add text overlays to explain what’s happening. You can change colors, fonts, and set durations for when the text appears and disappears.
   • Effects: Add filters or fun AR effects to your video.
   • Stickers: Include polls, quizzes, GIFs, or other interactive stickers to encourage engagement.
4. Once you're happy with your video, tap "Next."
5. Write a captivating caption. Keep it short and sweet, and include a few relevant hashtags. Make sure the option to share to your Instagram feed is toggled on if you want it to post there simultaneously.
6. Tap "Share Now" to publish your Reel.

Level Up: Using Free External Apps for a Polished Look

While Facebook's native tools are great for starting, free third-party apps give you significantly more creative control. The apps below are user-friendly, don’t add watermarks (or they have an easy way to remove them for free), and are packed with professional features.

CapCut: The All-in-One Video Editor (Mobile & Desktop)

CapCut is arguably the best free video editor available. It's owned by the same parent company as TikTok, so it's perfectly designed for creating short-form social videos.

Why Use CapCut?

• Auto Captions: This is a game-changer. CapCut can automatically transcribe the audio in your video and create timed captions with one tap. Since most users watch videos with the sound off, this is essential.
• Advanced Editing: Easily trim clips, add transitions, use picture-in-picture effects, apply animations to text, and remove a video's background.
• Huge Music & Sound Library: Access a massive library of commercially-licensed trending sounds and music clips to use in your videos without copyright issues.
• No Watermark: Just delete the pre-made "credits" slide at the end of every video before exporting.

Pexels or Pixabay: Free Stock Footage and Photos

Sometimes, you need B-roll footage to illustrate a point, and you can't film it yourself. Websites like Pexels and Pixabay offer millions of high-quality, royalty-free stock videos and photos. You can download and use these clips in your projects for commercial purposes without attribution, making your videos look much more professional at zero cost.

YouTube Audio Library: Copyright-Safe Music

If you're creating a longer in-feed video and want background music without the risk of a copyright strike, the YouTube Audio Library is your best friend. Even though it's run by YouTube, you can download any track and use it in your Facebook videos. Simply filter by genre, mood, or duration to find the perfect track.

Best Practices: How to Make Videos People Actually Watch

Making the video is only half the battle. You also need to package it for success. Here’s what you need to focus on to get views and engagement.

1. Hook Them in the First Three Seconds

You have a very short window to capture someone's attention as they scroll. Your video needs an immediate hook. This could be:

• An attention-grabbing text overlay (e.g., “3 Facebook mistakes you’re making…”)
• An intriguing question (e.g., “Have you ever wondered why…?”)
• A surprise or unexpected visual
• A person speaking directly to the camera with high energy

Don’t waste time with a long logo reveal or a slow introduction. Get straight to the value.

2. Design for Sound-Off Viewing

Assume most people seeing your video will have their phone on silent. Your video must make sense without audio. Use:

• Bold Text Overlays: Summarize key points on screen.
• Captions: Use an app like CapCut to generate captions for all your videos where someone is speaking.
• Strong Visuals: The video itself should tell the story, even with the sound muted.

3. Optimize Your Video Post for Discovery

Give your video the best chance of being seen by filling out all the details before you post.

• A Clear Title & Description: Your description should tell viewers what the video is about and what they stand to gain from watching it. Use keywords that people might search for.
• Strategic Hashtags: Use a mix of broad hashtags (e.g., #Marketing) and niche hashtags (e.g., #SmallBusinessTips) to help Facebook categorize your content and show it to the right people.
• A Custom Thumbnail: For in-feed videos, always upload a custom thumbnail. This is the "poster" for your video and determines whether people click on it. Your thumbnail should be bright, clear, and feature a human face or intriguing text.
• Call-to-Action (CTA): End your video and your caption by telling people what you want them to do next. Should they follow you, comment below, visit your website, or share the video? Be direct.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, creating great videos for Facebook comes down to providing value and being consistent. You don’t need an expensive camera or premium software, just a smartphone, a few free apps, and a solid understanding of what makes people stop their scroll. Use the tools and strategies outlined here, start simple, and build your confidence over time.

Once you’ve nailed the creation process, the next challenge is consistency. That's why we wanted to build something better. We designed Postbase to streamline the rest of your workflow, especially for video-heavy strategies. With our visual calendar, you can plan and schedule your Facebook Reels, Stories, and in-feed videos - along with your content for TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube Shorts - all in one place, ensuring your great videos aren't forgotten in your camera roll.