Top-Tier Video Creatives, Fast and On Budget

Tips for Video Ads


At Flixr, we understand the power of a standout video. With years of experience creating content that captivates and converts, we’ve gathered our top insights into one place. Below, you’ll find expert tips organized by key themes:

Use these practical tips to craft video ads that grab attention, foster connection, and inspire action. Dive in and elevate your video ad game!






Creating Concepts for Video Ads

Concepting is the foundation of any successful video ad campaign. Try this straightforward approach to develop video concepts that capture attention and are tailored to your product:

I) Start with a Clear Brief

Your video should have a solid foundation. A clear brief gives direction and purpose to your creative team.

  1. Gain Insight:
    • Identify the unique features and value propositions of your product. Ask yourself:
      • What sets it apart from competitors?
      • Why would someone want to use it?
  2. Define Your Target Audience:
    • Avoid broad, generic descriptions. Go deeper to understand:
      • Demographics (age, location, etc.)
      • Interests, motivations, and behaviors
      • Example for games: Instead of “Men, 25-35, USA,” try “Men, 25-35, USA; interests: MMORPG, anime; motivations: leveling up, self-expression.”
  3. Choose a Clear Call-to-Action (CTA):
    • Decide what you want viewers to do after watching:
      • Download the app/game
      • Share or engage with the content
      • Visit your website

II) Choose the Right Platform

Your video’s success depends on meeting your audience where they are. Select platforms based on where your target audience spends time and tailor your content to each platform’s unique style.

Content Types for Different Platforms:

  • TikTok: Quick, trend-driven content.
  • Instagram: Visually polished, highly shareable.
  • YouTube: Longer, more informative videos.
  • Facebook/Meta: Broad appeal, community-driven.

III) Brainstorm Creative Concepts

Crafting a compelling video concept is one of the most challenging yet impactful parts of the process. The right idea can transform an ad, making it memorable and engaging for viewers.

1. UGC Video Concepts

UGC (User-Generated Content) thrives on authenticity and relatability. Try these popular formats for UGC videos:

  • Tutorials & Tips: Show how your product solves a problem or offers unique value.
  • User Reactions: Capture authentic, in-the-moment responses, inspired by live stream-style commentary.
  • Before & After: Highlight the transformation or improvement your product enables.
  • Day-in-the-Life: Illustrate how your product seamlessly fits into daily routines.
  • Trending Skits: Leverage humor and trends to make content more relatable and shareable.
  • Testimonials & Stories: Share real user experiences to build trust and connection.
  • Costume & Character Features: Bring elements of the product to life for a fun, immersive feel.
  • Challenges & Quizzes: Use interactive formats to engage viewers and prompt shares.

Tailor these ideas to your brand tone, target audience, and platform to create relatable, engaging UGC content.

2. CTV Ad Concepts

Connected TV (CTV) ads benefit from cinematic visuals and storytelling to captivate viewers on the big screen. Consider these formats:

  • Narrative-Driven Ads: Build a short story around your product to immerse viewers in its world.
  • Trailer-Style Showcases: Create excitement with a dynamic “trailer” format that combines impactful visuals and sound.
  • Feature-Focused Ads: Zero in on specific features with cinematic shots and text overlays that emphasize their value.

These formats leverage the big screen experience, allowing for deeper storytelling and visual impact in CTV ads.

3. 3D/Motion Graphics Concepts

3D and motion graphics are ideal for visually showcasing complex features and in-app experiences. Explore these animation-focused concepts:

  • Stylized Walkthroughs: Use animations to illustrate key product features in a clear, digestible way.
  • Feature Simulations: Show product functionality with simulated environments that bring the experience to life.
  • Interactive Explainers: Create engaging tutorials that simplify complex features, perfect for unique or technical products.
  • Augmented Reality Visuals: Demonstrate how your product integrates with real-world settings through AR effects and 3D visuals.

These formats are highly engaging and work well for products with intricate features or unique user experiences.

Scripting Tips for Video Ads

Crafting an engaging script is essential for keeping viewers invested and driving them to take action. Here are scripting strategies for UGC, CTV, and Animation video ads:

I) UGC Video Ads Scripting Tips

User-Generated Content (UGC) thrives on authenticity, relatability, and a casual, friendly tone. Use these tips to make UGC scripts feel approachable and genuine.

1. Start with a Relatable Hook

  • Emotion-Driven: Tap into viewers’ emotions by addressing common experiences or challenges that resonate on a personal level.
  • Question-Based: Open with an intriguing question to engage curiosity and invite viewers to reflect on their own experiences.
  • Casual Visual Surprise: Use an unexpected or playful visual element to immediately capture attention and break the viewer’s scrolling pattern.

2. Use Everyday Storytelling

  • Real-Life Scenarios:  Place the product naturally within a common day-to-day context to make it feel relevant and relatable to the audience.
  • Conversational Tone: Write dialogue that feels like a chat between friends. Skip the corporate jargon.

3. Keep It Dynamic and Flexible

  • Room for Improvisation: Encourage creators to add their own spin for a more authentic feel.
  • Fast-Paced Energy: Use quick dialogue and transitions to maintain excitement, especially for lifestyle or productivity products.

4. End with a Friendly, Low-Key CTA

  • Subtle CTA: Keep it casual (not too salesy) to maintain the UGC vibe.

II) CTV Video Ads Scripting Tips

Connected TV (CTV) ads are viewed on larger screens, where a cinematic and story-driven approach can be very effective. These tips will help you make the most of the big-screen experience.

1. Open with a Strong Visual Hook

  • Visually Striking: Start with sweeping visuals or a dynamic shot to capture attention immediately.
  • Set the Scene: CTV allows for more complex visual storytelling, so establish a strong, cinematic atmosphere in the opening seconds.

2. Develop a Cinematic Storyline

  • Structured Narrative: CTV viewers expect a story arc—introduce a conflict or journey that builds an emotional connection.
  • Character Development: Include relatable characters that resonate with your target audience.

3. Emphasize Visuals with a Clear, Polished Script

  • Balanced Dialogue: Use minimal yet impactful dialogue to let visuals shine. The dialogue should support the storyline, not overwhelm it.
  • Use Emotional Highs: Build up to emotional moments that resonate with viewers on a personal level.

4. Close with a Bold, Visually Integrated CTA

  • High-Impact CTA: Use a striking end card–make it visually bold to match the cinematic quality.

III) 3D/Motion Graphics-Specific Scripting Tips

Motion Graphics and 3D animations allow for detailed, visually compelling storytelling that’s perfect for explaining complex features. These tips will help you maximize clarity and engagement:

1. Begin with Eye-Catching Animation

  • Dynamic Visuals: Use animated graphics or bold text overlays to establish context instantly and hook viewers.
  • Set the Tone: Open with colors, animations, or sound effects that set the mood, whether it’s excitement, calm, or focus.

2. Use Clear Text and Icons

  • Readable Overlays: Utilize text overlays to highlight key benefits without cluttering the screen. Icons can help simplify complex ideas.
  • Split-Screen for Detail: Use split-screen or infographic elements to showcase multiple features or product benefits side-by-side.

3. Focus on Feature Highlights

  • Direct Explanations: Motion graphics are great for demonstrating functionality. Show each feature clearly with short, informative segments.
  • Avoid Overloading: Keep each visual element purposeful; too much animation can become distracting.

4. End with an Integrated, Animated CTA

  • Seamless CTA: Finish with a CTA that feels part of the animation, like an app icon that morphs into a “Learn More” prompt. Keep it visually engaging but clear.

Casting Your Video Ads

I) Casting UGC Videos

When casting for UGC (User-Generated Content) videos, authenticity is essential. Different types of talent bring unique strengths and challenges:

Influencers

  • Pros:
    • Built-In Audience: Influencers come with a pre-existing, loyal audience that trusts them, making them ideal for brand amplification.
    • Niche Expertise: Their endorsement feels credible, especially if they specialize in your brand’s niche.
    • High Production Quality: Established influencers often have experience with video production and maintain high-quality standards.
  • Cons:
    • Limited Flexibility: Influencers often work through agencies, which can restrict creative control and add complexity.
    • Authenticity Challenges: Some may hesitate to endorse products they don’t genuinely use to avoid seeming “inauthentic.”

Content Creators

  • Pros:
    • Relatable Content: Creators excel in producing down-to-earth, relatable content that feels genuine to viewers.
    • Cost-Effective: Typically more budget-friendly than influencers, making them a versatile choice.
    • Flexible: Creators are often open to following brand guidelines or letting their creativity flow.
  • Cons:
    • Limited Niche Expertise: They might lack specialized knowledge in your industry.

Authenticity Concerns: If your product doesn’t align with their values, creators may feel uneasy promoting it.

Real Users

The “gold standard” for UGC. Real users provide the most authentic experience and often resonate deeply with audiences.

  • Pros: High relatability and authenticity.
  • Cons: Limited control over quality and delivery.

II) Casting for CTV Ads: Prioritizing Professionalism

Connected TV (CTV) ads require a cinematic, high-quality approach, making professional actors the best fit. Here’s why trained actors elevate CTV campaigns:

Why Use Professional Actors?

  • High Production Value: Professional actors bring polish and depth, essential for the big-screen experience.
  • Emotional Impact: Actors are skilled at conveying complex emotions, crucial for story-driven ads where character connection matters.
  • Consistency Across Takes: Actors provide stable performances. This is important for ensuring seamless editing and smooth transitions.
  • Script Fidelity: CTV ads often have structured scripts, and actors excel at delivering lines with clarity and precision.

What to Look for in CTV Casting

  • Experience with Long-Form or Cinematic Content: Actors with backgrounds in TV or film understand how to captivate an audience in longer formats.
  • Relatability and Authenticity: While polished, the actor should still feel approachable to connect with viewers on a personal level.
  • Ability to Handle Complex Scripts: If the ad includes technical language, trained actors can deliver these lines naturally.
  • Emotional Versatility: Look for actors who can switch between serious and lighter tones as needed.

III) Casting for Motion Graphics & 3D Animation: Voice Talent Selection

In motion graphics and 3D animation ads, voiceover plays a crucial role in connecting with the audience. Here’s what to consider when casting voice talent:

Voice Talent Considerations

  • Voice Tone and Emotion: The voice should complement the visual style—energetic for a gaming ad, calm and authoritative for an explainer video.
  • Accent and Localization: For regional targeting, select voice talent with a local accent or language to enhance relatability.
  • Clarity and Delivery: Since motion graphics often communicate complex information, the voice actor should articulate clearly and maintain a pace that’s easy to follow.

Tailor your casting choices to the video type to ensure each format resonates with the audience, stays on brand, and maximizes engagement.

Filming Tips for UGC, CTV, and Animation Ads

Crafting visually engaging videos starts with meticulous attention to filming details. Whether you’re aiming for a relatable UGC feel, a high-quality CTV experience, or dynamic motion graphics, these tailored tips will help elevate each format!

I) UGC Filming Tips

Location & Background

  • Keep It Clean and Relevant: Use simple, relatable locations that don’t distract from the main message. Clutter-free and neutral backgrounds work best to keep the focus on the content.
  • Natural Light: Filming in natural light enhances the authenticity of UGC content. If indoors, position creators near windows or use LED lights to mimic natural lighting.

Lighting

  • Balanced Light Source: Position the main light source facing the subject, ideally behind the camera. Avoid harsh shadows that feel overly dramatic.
  • Golden Hour for Outdoor Shots: The hour after sunrise and before sunset provides the best natural lighting for outdoor scenes, giving a soft, warm look.

Audio

  • Minimize Background Noise: Record in a quiet room to avoid distractions. Encourage creators to put their phone in flight mode to avoid notification sounds.
  • Basic Mic Options: If possible, use a clip-on microphone to improve audio clarity without adding complexity to the setup.

Props & Set Elements

  • Relevant Props: Use props that add context without distracting, such as a smartphone if it’s essential to the storyline. Avoid flashy or branded items unless they’re directly relevant.
  • Casual Clothing & Appearance: Keep outfits simple and relatable. Encourage creators to avoid complex patterns or logos to keep the focus on the message.

II) CTV Filming Tips

Location & Background

  • Controlled Studio Environments: For CTV ads, opt for studio or carefully selected locations to maintain consistency. Studios allow for controlled lighting and a polished look.
  • Detailed Set Design: Use high-quality props, set pieces, and backgrounds that enhance the narrative, aligning with the brand’s tone and theme.

Lighting

  • Professional Studio Lighting: Invest in a three-point lighting setup for even, shadow-free illumination. Softboxes and LED panels help achieve a cinematic feel.
  • Avoid Harsh Shadows: Use diffused light sources to avoid unflattering shadows. Soft, balanced lighting is ideal for creating a polished, cinematic look.

Audio

  • High-Quality Sound Equipment: Use boom mics or lavalier microphones to capture crisp, clear audio. CTV ads demand professional sound quality to ensure impactful dialogue delivery.
  • Isolated Sound Environment: Film in soundproof or controlled spaces to eliminate background noise. Use windshields for outdoor scenes if necessary.

Props & Set Elements

  • Premium Props: Props should be high-quality and on-brand, reflecting a premium look.
  • Polished Wardrobe: CTV ads benefit from professional styling and makeup. Costumes should match the narrative and character, whether formal or casual, to add authenticity.

Additional Tips

  • Cinematic Shots: Use advanced filming techniques like slow-motion, dolly, or tracking shots to add a cinematic flair.
  • Consistent Framing: Use traditional framing techniques like the rule of thirds for a professional look, ensuring consistent composition across scenes.

III) Animation Filming Tips (3D & Motion Graphics)

Filming

  • Digital Placeholder Props: For live-action elements in animations, use placeholders for where digital graphics will be added later.
  • Green Screen Setup: Use a well-lit, wrinkle-free green screen to allow seamless integration of digital backgrounds and animations.
  • Neutral Wardrobe for Green Screen: Avoid green or reflective clothing that could interfere with digital backgrounds. Stick to neutral colors like black, white, or gray.

Audio

  • Professional Voiceover Quality: If using voiceovers, ensure they’re recorded with high-quality equipment. Clean audio is crucial for animations, where clarity enhances the storytelling.
  • Sound Design: Add background music and sound effects to bring the animation to life. Layered sound enhances viewer engagement and elevates the overall experience.

Additional Tips

  • Clear Text and Icons: Motion graphics should use easily readable text overlays to highlight features or instructions.

Integrated, Animated CTA: Conclude with a CTA that feels natural within the animation, like an app icon or “Download” prompt transitioning in seamlessly.

Editing Video Creatives

I) UGC Editing Tips

Editing is where the magic happens, transforming raw footage into a seamless, engaging narrative that resonates with viewers. Here’s how to approach editing across UGC, CTV, and Animation formats:

Sequencing: Crafting a Relatable Narrative

  • Problem → Solution → Reward: Present a common problem, introduce your product as the solution, and end with the positive result.

Dynamic Editing Techniques

  • Quick Cuts for Energy: Keep the pace lively by segmenting dialogue or action into multiple quick clips. This approach works especially well for fast-paced, humorous content.
  • Zoom for Emphasis: Zoom in to capture facial expressions or product details during key moments, then zoom out to add context.
  • Mix Up Angles: Vary camera angles and use cutaways to keep viewers visually engaged without disrupting the flow.

Visual Elements

  • Text Overlays: Use on-screen text to reinforce key messages or explain product benefits in a quick, digestible way.
  • Emojis & Stickers: Add personality with emojis or stickers, but keep it relevant and subtle.
  • Simple Graphics: Sparingly add graphics like arrows or highlights to draw attention to specific points, enhancing the video without overwhelming it.

Sound Design

  • Background Music: Use royalty-free music that matches the energy of the video without distracting from the message.
  • Minimal Sound Effects: Light sound effects, like clicks or chimes, can enhance viewer engagement but should be used sparingly.

Ending

  • Friendly CTA: Conclude with a natural, conversational call-to-action that feels like a friend’s suggestion rather than a hard sell.

II) CTV Editing Tips

Sequencing: Creating a Cinematic Flow

  • Introduction → Development → Resolution: Develop a full narrative arc, allowing viewers to get invested in the story.
  • Character Journey: Focus on a storyline that introduces relatable characters and gradually reveals the product’s benefits. When done right, this can create an emotional connection with the viewer.

Advanced Editing Techniques

  • Smooth Transitions: Use cinematic transitions like fade-ins and fade-outs to create a high-end, polished feel.
  • Consistent Visual Quality: Maintain high-definition footage and smooth transitions, as CTV ads are typically viewed on large screens where quality discrepancies are more noticeable.
  • Balanced Pacing: CTV ads sometimes allows for a slower, more engaging rhythm. Keep a consistent pace to hold attention without overwhelming the viewer.

Visual Elements

  • Minimal Text Overlays: Keep on-screen text minimal to maintain the cinematic experience. Subtitles should be clear but not intrusive.
  • High-Quality Special Effects: For added impact, consider using premium effects such as slow motion, CGI, or complex transitions that suit the cinematic nature of CTV.

Sound Design

  • Cinematic Soundtrack: Use high-quality, dramatic background music and sound effects suited for larger screens and home sound systems.
  • Voice Clarity: Prioritize clear, high-quality audio for voiceovers, as CTV ads are often viewed in quiet environments where audio quality is critical.
  • Dynamic Volume Control: Balance background music to ensure voiceovers remain prominent during key messaging moments.

Ending

  • Impactful Conclusion: End with a memorable moment that resonates emotionally, reinforcing the brand message.

III) Animation Editing Tips (3D & Motion Graphics)

Sequencing: Guiding Through Visual Narratives

  • Showcase Features in Steps: Use a sequence like Introduction → Feature Highlight → Call-to-Action to guide viewers logically through the product’s key attributes.
  • Interactive Explainers: Break down complex processes with animations that are visually engaging and easy to follow.

Dynamic Editing Techniques for Animation

  • Seamless Transitions: Use fades, zooms, or slides to transition smoothly between elements, keeping the motion graphics cohesive and easy on the eye.
  • Zooming for Detail: Focus on key features or specific actions within the animation to highlight product capabilities.
  • Color and Contrast: Use vibrant colors and strong contrasts to make key visuals stand out, particularly for mobile viewers.

Visual Elements

  • Text and Icon Integration: Include readable text overlays and branded icons that enhance comprehension and reinforce brand identity.
  • 3D and AR Effects: For 3D ads, integrate realistic effects or simulations that give viewers a close-up look at the product, adding an immersive experience.
  • Smooth Animation: Ensure all animated elements flow fluidly without abrupt changes, maintaining a professional look.

Sound Design

  • Synchronized Sound Effects: Time sound effects to sync precisely with animated movements, enhancing viewer immersion.
  • Layered Audio: Use a mix of background music, sound effects, and ambient sounds to build a multi-layered audio experience.
  • Looping Tracks: For shorter animated ads, use looping music or sound effects to maintain a consistent tone throughout.

Ending

  • Integrated, Animated CTA: Wrap up with a CTA that naturally transitions from the animation (e.g. your brand’s logo that morphs into a “Download Now” prompt).
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