Reels algorithm stuck at 200-300 views after 3 months of consistent posting – what am I missing?

First off, stop posting daily. Quality over quantity, especially for travel/drone content. The algorithm doesn't reward volume; it rewards retention and shares. I had the same issue – went from 300 views to 3k+ average when I cut down to 3-4 times a week and focused on storytelling.

Second, 4K export is overkill for Reels. The platform compresses to 1080p anyway, and large files can take forever to upload. Export at 1080x1920, 30fps, H.264, with a bitrate of 8-10 Mbps – that's the sweet spot. Also, make sure you're not using copyrighted audio that's flagged – even if it says 'trending', some tracks are restricted in certain regions.

Check your account status in the app: Settings > Account > Account status. If you see any flags, that's your problem.

I agree with the above, but let me add something about retention. 80% watch time on a 20-second Reel is good, but if you're hitting 80% on a 30-second Reel, that's 24 seconds – which is great. However, the algorithm also looks at replays and shares. Are you giving people a reason to share? For travel content, that's often 'wow' factor or a useful tip.

Try this: make your first 1-2 seconds a strong visual hook – not just text. For drone shots, start with the most epic view, then rewind to show how you got there. That creates a loop that people watch multiple times.

Also, check your audience retention graph in Insights (if you have a Pro account). See where the drop-offs happen. If they happen at the same point every time, that's your cue to edit tighter.

That's a great tip. Also, don't underestimate the power of captions. Since you're using Premiere, use the 'Auto Captions' feature in the Essential Graphics panel – it's accurate and you can style it. But make sure to place them in the safe zone (center of the screen) because the right side is often covered by UI elements.

Another thing: are you using the 'Remix' feature on trending audio? Sometimes using the exact trending audio with the exact start point gives you a boost because the algorithm is pushing that audio. But avoid using audio that's been used to death – check the audio page to see if it's still trending or if it's been trending for 3+ weeks.

Also, consider cross-posting to TikTok and YouTube Shorts. The same video can perform differently on each platform, and you might get lucky on one. Use a tool like Later or Buffer to schedule – but make sure to remove watermarks from other platforms before uploading.

I've been in the same boat, and the key for me was understanding that the algorithm tests your video on a small audience first. If they don't engage within the first hour, it stops pushing. So your initial 200-300 views are the test group. To pass the test, you need to get at least 15-20% engagement (likes+comments+shares) on those first views.

How? Ask a question in your caption or on-screen text to prompt comments. For travel content, something like 'Would you ever camp here?' or 'Where should I go next?' That boosts comments, which is a strong signal.

Also, check your follower count. If you have less than 1k, your reach is limited. Try to get to 1k by promoting on other platforms or collaborating with micro-creators in your niche. Once you hit 1k, you get access to the swipe-up link (if you have a business account) and more visibility.

And don't ignore the 'Not interested' feedback – if many people tap that, your video gets throttled. If you see a low 'Not interested' rate, you're fine.

Thanks everyone for the detailed advice! I implemented the changes: reduced to 4 posts a week, exported at 1080p, added auto-captions, and started adding a question to my captions. My last three Reels have gotten 1.5k, 2.3k, and 4k views respectively! My average watch time also improved to 85% because I moved the best shot to the beginning.

I also checked my account status – no issues there, so it was just a content/technical tweak. I really appreciate the tips about the audio and the initial test group – that made a huge difference. You guys are the best!