Reels that feel real, this is why low-fi content wins

3 minutes read

In the era of endless scroll, audiences don’t always want polished, high-budget productions. They want immediacy. They want authenticity. They want to feel like they’re getting the inside scoop.

That’s where low-fi Reels shine: fast turnaround, social-first content that cuts through with personality and pace.

At Aruga, we’ve found that the strongest performing Reels aren’t always the slickest – they’re the ones that feel real, reactive and relevant.

For us, low-fi doesn’t mean low-quality. It means smart storytelling, quick turnaround and content built for the way audiences actually consume.
Ben Dutton | Content Creator

Here are the key types of Reels we use to drive reach, engagement and shareability.

Event Recaps

Short, punchy edits that distil a big moment into a quick highlight reel. Think of it as a festival afterglow or a one-minute red carpet. Event recap Reels are perfect for:

  • Giving those who attended a chance to relive the magic
  • Offering FOMO fuel to those who missed out
  • Generating evergreen shareability beyond the live moment.
Video poster
Experience the energy and spirit of Afterglow.
Video poster
Snackable content for Dine BNE City's Fireside launch event.
Video poster
Lights, camera, action! Queensland Theatre Company's 2026 is All Feeling. No Filter.

Reporter-Style Previews

Part hype-piece, part info-drop. These Reels act like the social equivalent of a roving reporter, giving followers a sneak peek, a guided tour or a quick “what you need to know.”

  • Great for exhibitions, openings or campaigns with key talking points
  • Humanises the brand by putting a face/voice front and centre
  • Builds anticipation and helps audiences feel ‘in the know’
Video poster
We browsed the incredible pieces of Affordable Art Fair Brisbane at the media preview to help drive event attendance.
Video poster
Hear about Dead Puppet Society's incredible We're All Gonna Die! by the creative minds behind it.
Video poster
Ergon Energy hit the road with their Thank You Circuit, travelling from Brisbane to Maryborough, Rockhampton, Mackay, and Townsville to thank their customers who have helped them raise more than $20 million for the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

Trends-Based Reels

From trending sounds to visual memes, these Reels tap into what’s already circulating on feeds but make it brand relevant.

  • Quick wins for engagement and discoverability
  • Flexible: can be witty, informative or playful
  • Works best when brands don’t overthink it (speed > polish)
Video poster
Do you want to know what's in our bag?
Video poster
When we got new Aruga merch, we had to give this trend a crack.
Video poster
Not all office arrivals are the same.

Behind-the-Scenes (BTS)

Audiences love peeking behind the curtain. BTS Reels reveal the prep, the personalities and the process. Think of it as VIP access to the work behind the work.

  • Positions your brand as skilled and passionate about the details
  • Turns complex processes into engaging, watchable stories
  • Builds respect and curiosity by lifting the curtain on how things are made or brought to life
Video poster
Join us for a media call for Tourism and Events Queensland's That Holiday Feeling campaign launch.
Video poster
Go behind the scenes with us at Dine BNE City's media call
Video poster
Before the premiere of Rhinestone Rex and Miss Monica we joined Georgie Parker for a bit of fun on stage.

Exclusive Access

Where BTS focuses on the how, Exclusive Access Reels focus on the where. They give your audience a front-row pass to spaces and experiences they wouldn’t ordinarily get to see, whether that’s a backstage green room, a closed rehearsal or the kitchen pass at a restaurant.

  • Unlocks curiosity by showing behind closed doors or restricted spaces
  • Humanises your brand by showing the “inner circle” moments
  • Builds excitement and brand authority by positioning you as the insider with access
Video poster
Explore the hidden tunnels of the Gateway Bridge with Transurban.
Video poster
Come with us for a visit to ABC Radio Brisbane.
Video poster
Ever wondered what the Bridge to Brisbane pace cars look like? Maybe not, but come with us to check them out!

Hero Spotlights

Sometimes one thing deserves the full spotlight, whether it’s a single dish, a standout cocktail, a star performer or a design detail. These Reels zoom in on a hero element and give it the attention it deserves.

  • Keeps the story tight and digestible
  • Builds anticipation by highlighting a must-try or must-see moment
  • Encourages shareability (“I need to try this exact thing!”)
Video poster
Get crafty at Sculptures & Sips with Dead Puppet Society.
Video poster
Hungry? This reel honed in on the dreamy deep fried ice cream created by the team at The Fifty Six for Providore Park.
Video poster
By.Artisans No.99 Bitter Orange Aperitif. We don't need to say anymore, just watch.

Want to explore how Reels can work for your brand? Get in touch to chat about your content needs and let’s create social-first videos that stick.