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How to Create Scroll-Stopping Social Media Videos with Canva: A Step-by-Step Guide

Author: Lorena Milanović


Short video content has taken over social media, the reason for this is because it is fast, dynamic and incredibly engaging. It is very important to know how to make quality and engaging videos that are able to scroll-stopping and encourage people to watch, like and share them?

The good news is that you don't need expensive software or editing experience, as this guide gives you a complete overview of how to create eye-catching videos using Canva, even if you're a complete beginner. Whether you're promoting a brand, running a personal page, or simply testing new content ideas, this step-by-step approach will help you create videos that not only look great, but perform well across all platforms.


Why Short-Form Videos Matter in 2025

Hands holding a smartphone showing "Cheers!" and sparklers. A laptop and a glass of water are on a white table, creating a serene mood.

If you’re marketing anything online, you already know that video content dominates every major platform. Instagram Reels, TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and even Facebook are pushing short videos more than ever. The average viewer gives you less than 3 seconds - so your video has to hit hard and fast, and this is where Canva comes in.

It is important to emphasize that short videos are not only to attract attention but are effective in driving engagement and increasing brand recognition and even increasing conversions. Algorithms on social platforms prioritize this type of content because it keeps users active and entertained. If you're launching a product, building a personal brand, or running paid ads, mastering short videos can give you a serious competitive advantage.

Best of all, you don't need a film crew or editing software because with tools like Canva, anyone can create videos that will take your eyes off you, and they can look professional if you learn how to use them properly.

 

Why Canva Is a Marketer’s Secret Weapon

Canva is a favorite among digital marketers, offering:

  • pre-built video templates designed for each platform

  • drag-and-drop interface that requires no editing experience

  • access to music, images, graphics, videos, transitions and animations

  • Brand Kit that maintains consistency in fonts, colors, and logos

  • gives you the ability to resize videos for each platform with one click


It is not only a design tool, it can be said that it is a tool that gives the possibility to brands, to create video content, who want quick results.


Step-by-Step: How to Create a Scroll-Stopping Video in Canva

  1. Choose the template that works best for you

Go to Canva → Create a design → Select “Video (1080×1920)” for Instagram, TikTok or Youtube. For best results, we recommend using the Mobile Video or Social Video category.

  

Hands hold a smartphone showing the Canva app on a blue-green screen. Laptop keyboard in the background. Casual setting.

          

  1. Customize scenes to fit your video theme

Add your own text, logo, or product images

Use bold and larger fonts, and use color to highlight important parts

Keep your message short and clear

 

  1. Add movements and music

Choose light animations or use preset transitions

Turn on background music from the free audio library in Canva or Pixabay Music

 

4. Keep It Short and Impressive

You should make an interesting short video that is no longer than 45 seconds.

The goal is not to explain everything - just to hook the viewer.

 

Optimization Tips for Each Platform

  • Instagram Reels: Use bold on-screen text and trending audio. Add a short caption and relevant hashtags.

  • TikTok: Be playful. Start with a question or problem, then reveal the solution. Use native features like text stickers.

  • Facebook: Include subtitles. Many people watch with the sound off.

  • YouTube Shorts: Strong hook in the first 2 seconds. Avoid long intros.


Pro tip: Export your video in 1080×1920 and repurpose it across all platforms.


Person working on a laptop displaying Canva, design edits visible. Phone nearby on a wooden table. Background features a green textured surface.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  •  Adding too much text

  •  Using low-resolution images

  •  Forgetting a call to action

  •  Making the video longer than it needs to be

  •  Not aligning the visuals with your brand

Remember: less is more!


Final Thoughts 

Canva is a great free tool, it has some paid features, but you can also make a good video with free templates. You don't need a videographer or a big production budget to create content that will give you effective results. With Canva, you have all the tools to create videos on social media that will give you professional and good results. Short videos are no longer optional, they are now essential for promoting a new or existing product, entering the market with a new business or if you want to stay visible in a competitive digital environment.

The advantage of Canva is that it allows you to move quickly, such as testing different styles, quickly updating your campaign and keeping up with trends without the need for external support. So, don't worry about complex editing software or spending hours on post-production, just open Canva, choose a template, let your imagination run wild and I guarantee that with a little practice and monitoring the views of your videos, you will soon become an expert in creating promotional videos. Your next viral video could be just a few clicks away.

A very simple tool that can give you a lot, so don't hesitate to get to know it, and start making videos right away.

 


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