Instagram, with its millions of users from every corner of the globe sharing photos, videos, and stories every day, has cemented itself as one of the leading social media platforms in the world. For companies and content creators, who are looking to build their community of followers, Instagram is a tool that cannot be overlooked—Instagram video ads.

But, what are Instagram video ads? And how are they used to achieve the objectives of the brands? In this blog, we will cover every little detail about Instagram video ads along with Instagram ads in general, so that even if you are a newbie to advertising, you can understand it easily.

What Are Instagram Video Ads?

Video ads on Instagram are short, memorable videos that businesses and creators can use to promote their products, services, or ideas. These video ads are added to your feed, stories, and explore pages just like normal Instagram posts would, however, unlike them, they have a larger reach.

Video commercials capture the audience's eyes because videos are more lively than mere pictures or text. They provide companies with the opportunity to demonstrate their products, narrate a story, or highlight the advantages of their services in a way that is impossible only with words and pictures.

The Different Types of Instagram Video Ads

Instagram has several types of video ads, depending on the purpose and circumstances. Let’s examine them:

1. Feed Video Ads
   These are the video ads that appear in the user's main Instagram feed as he or she scrolls through their posts. They can last for 60 seconds at the most, and a call-to-action button like, "Shop Now" or "Learn More," can be embedded into them. They are the ones you can place in your friends' feeds for the lunch hour distraction.
   
   
   

2. Instagram Story Ads
   Instagram stories are the best feature among users, where photos or videos are uploaded that disappear after 24 hours. Instagram story ads are full-screen videos that pop up between users' stories. These video ads can be up to 15 seconds long and have the advantage of being immersive because they take up the whole screen.
   
   
   

3. Explore Ads
   The Explore page on Instagram is where users discover new content based on their preferences. Explore ads look like video content when a user begins browsing this section. These ads can be used to attract the attention of potential consumers interested in the field associated with your product or service without the need to follow you.
   
   
   

4. Carousel Ads
   Although the main idea is based on using multiple images, you can also insert videos in a carousel format. This feature gives you a chance to elaborate your story by showcasing more of your video clips or images that users can swipe through. Each video or image can link to a different product or service, giving you a lot of flexibility.
   
   
   

Reasons Why Instagram Video Ads Matter

As a result of the recent tremendous upsurge of Instagram video ads, they have turned out to be one of the most viable ways for a company and social media influencer to reach their target audience. The following are the main reasons:

1. Engagement
   Videos are simply more engaging and draw the viewer's attention more effectively than images or text. They are attention-grabbing and encourage people to watch the entire video. Furthermore, Instagram’s algorithm prefers the type of content that gets a lot of engagement, so if you create enjoyable video ads, they will help you boost your visibility on the platform.
   
   
   

2. Wider Reach
   Instagram video ads allow brands to not just target their website visitors but new users who may be interested in the featured products or services too. Since Instagram boasts over a billion users, brands can also confirm their ads are visible to potential consumers from different regions. Employing the right targeting option ensures that your video ads reach the right people.
   
   
   

3. Increase in Brand Awareness
   Video ads are the best way to inform potential customers about your brand. An intelligently made video can tell your story, introduce your services, and remain in the back of users’ minds. Thanks to video ads, your audience is more likely to remember your brand.
   
   
   

4. Better Conversion Rates
   Viewers are more likely to take action after watching a video ad. This could be anything from checking your company’s website to finally purchasing a product or even signing up for a newsletter. Video ads have much higher conversion rates in comparison to static ones, which makes them an important tool for businesses that want to turn viewers into customers.
   
   
   

Steps to Create High-Quality Instagram Video Ads

Having understood the significance of Instagram video ads, we are now going to illustrate how you can create high-quality ads. Follow these easy steps:

1. State Your Objective
   The first step, before the creativity starts, is to determine your aim. Do you want to grow your brand? Got website traffic to drive? Or sales that need an increase? Your goal will give direction to the making of the video ad, which is constructive and effective.
   
   
   

2. Make High-Quality Content
   One of the main considerations when creating a quality video ad is to ensure it’s clear, bright, easy to understand, and visually appealing. Quality doesn’t require a huge budget, just good lighting, clear audio, and high-resolution images or clips.
   
   
   

3. Make It Brief
   Videos of 15-30 seconds are the most suitable for communicating a simple and clear message to the viewer and maximizing your chances of capturing attention. Brief videos capture attention quickly, which is important given that people have a short attention span.
   
   
   

4. Engage the Viewers to Take Action
   A call to action (CTA) is a prompt that encourages viewers to take the next step, whether it’s visiting your website, purchasing a product, or following your Instagram account. Examples of CTAs include “Swipe Up,” “Shop Now,” or “Learn More.” Be sure your CTA is clear and visible in the video.
   
   
   

5. Target the Right Audience
   Instagram also gives you targeting options, meaning you can reach out to people who are most interested in your product. You can choose the location, age, gender, interests, and more. Adjust your message according to your audience.
   
   
   

6. Test Continuous Improvements
   It is very important to monitor the performance of your video ad after launching it and make changes where necessary. Test different video lengths, CTAs, and creative elements to see what works best. Instagram’s detailed insights will help you understand how your ad is performing.
   
   
   

Instagram Ads vs. Instagram Video Ads

Instagram ads and Instagram video ads—these are the two terms you have probably come across. What is the difference? Here are the exclusive features:

• Instagram Ads: This is a comprehensive term that encompasses all kinds of ads available on Instagram, which are photo ads, video ads, carousel ads, and story ads. Instagram video ads, in contrast, are simply one type of Instagram ad, specifically made to engage users through video content.
  
  
  

• Instagram Video Ads: As previously mentioned, Instagram video ads are a type of Instagram ad where the user employs the video medium to market their services, products, or brand. They are featured in the feed, in stories, or on the explore page and are unique in their ability to draw people's attention and encourage quick engagement.
  
  
  

Hints for Successful Instagram Video Ads

For your Instagram video ads to be more productive, you must comply with a few additional tips:

• Utilize Captions: Many Instagram users watch videos without sound, so adding captions will ensure your message gets across even if the sound is off.

• Tell a Story: People connect with stories. Whether it's showing how your product works or telling a story about your brand, make sure your video ad tells a compelling story.

• Stay Consistent: Your video ad should align with your brand’s overall style, tone, and values. Consistency helps build trust within your audience.

  
  

Conclusion

Instagram video ads are powerful tools for promoting your brand and interacting with your audience effectively. They serve as great options if you want to create new brand awareness, drive traffic, or increase sales. You can make quality video ads, target the most suitable audience, and improve the performance of your ads by creating and optimizing them properly.

FAQs

1: What is the ideal length for an Instagram video ad?

The ideal length for an Instagram video ad is between 15 to 30 seconds. Shorter videos are more likely to capture the audience's attention, and this time frame allows you to deliver a concise and clear message without losing viewer interest.

2: Can I use Instagram video ads to promote any type of product?

Yes, Instagram video ads can be used to promote any type of product, service, or brand. Whether you're selling physical products, offering services, or looking to build brand awareness, video ads are an effective way to engage potential customers and drive conversions.

3: How do I know if my Instagram video ad is performing well?

Instagram provides detailed insights and analytics for each ad campaign. You can track metrics such as views, engagement rate, click-through rate, and conversions. By monitoring these insights, you can determine how well your video ad is performing and make adjustments as needed.

4: Is it necessary to use a call-to-action (CTA) in my Instagram video ads?

Yes, including a clear call-to-action (CTA) in your Instagram video ads is crucial. A CTA encourages viewers to take the next step, whether that’s visiting your website, purchasing a product, or following your account. Without a CTA, your ad might not drive the desired action from viewers.

5: How do I target the right audience for my Instagram video ads?

Instagram offers advanced targeting options that allow you to reach the right audience based on location, age, gender, interests, and behaviors. You can tailor your audience to match your ideal customer, ensuring that your video ads are seen by people most likely to engage with your brand.