Instagram Video Ads: Everything You Need To Know

May 17, 2024 5:30:00 AM

“Instagram Video Ads”, surely you might’ve come across this term once.

With the rise of other social media apps, Instagram also gained much popularity in no time. 

People started using this platform for all kinds of stuff from making entertaining videos to posting their real-life updates.

Businesses also weren’t left behind and tried to get as much out of this app as possible. 

Due to its wide reach and large user base, Instagram quickly became an industry standard when it came to marketing! 

Video ads are a feature often used by entrepreneurs and various business firms for the marketing of their products or services.

Many factors need to be kept in mind before launching an ad campaign.

Today, we’ll be discussing just that! 

By the end of this article, you’ll know almost everything you need to know about this feature on Instagram.

So, now let’s begin shall we?

  1. What are Instagram Video Ads?
  2. Types of Instagram Video Ads
    1. Instagram In-Feed Video Ads
    2. Instagram Reels Video Ads
    3. Carousel Instagram Video Ads
    4. Instagram Story Video Ads
  3. Instagram Video Ads Best Practices
    1. Make Improvements to Your CTA
    2. Seasonality of Instagram Video Ads
    3. Make Your Hook Count
    4. Currency and Languages
    5. Make It Snappy And Incisive
  4. Best Instagram Video Ads Examples
    1. Instagram In-Feed Video Ad Example
    2. Instagram Reels Video Ads Example
    3. Carousel Instagram Video Ad Example
    4. Instagram Stories Video Ad Example
  5. Instagram Video Ads FAQ
    1. How Much Does an Instagram Video Ad Cost?
    2. How Much Are Instagram Video Ads Per 1,000 Views?
    3. Do Video Ads Perform Better on Instagram?
    4. What Type of Video Ads Do Best on Instagram?
    5. What is The Ideal Length For An Instagram Video Ad?

What Are Instagram Video Ads?

Instagram video ads appear in your Instagram feed, reels, and explore page.

There are all kinds of video advertisements ranging from reel ads to carousel and shopping ads. 

Generally, someone who is looking to present his/her product/service sought this option as the most viable means of advertising in this new age.

Starting an ad is easy, cost-reducing, and time-saving all at the same time.

So, with the bar of expectations always set high from consumers, a business needs to be dynamic to adapt to these changes.

With the help of social media marketing, and external players like Instagram marketing agencies in some occasions, these businesses can do just that!

Types Of Instagram Video Ads

Now, you know what Instagram video ads are but let’s take a detailed look into the types of Instagram ads.

There are several different types of Instagram video ads like image ads, video ads, carousel ads, collection ads, shopping ads, and more.

In this section, we will be going over the most important ones that are currently in trend.

So, let’s get right into it!

1. Instagram In-Feed Video Ads

in-feed instagram video ads

Have you ever stumbled upon a wild video ad in your feed while surfing Instagram? 

If yes, then that’s exactly what we’ll be talking about in this section. 

Instagram In-Feed Video Ads are a type of advertisement that pops up on an individual’s feed and obviously, only those in a video format. Pretty easy to understand right? 

Well, it may be easy to understand the definition but it’s not that easy to create and run one! Fret not, for that’s what we’re here for. 

To run this type or in fact, any type of video ad on Instagram you’ll need to know its updated specifications and sizes and that’s what we’re gonna be going over now.

So, let’s take a quick peep, shall we?

Instagram In-Feed Video Ads Sizes and Specifications:

  • Video Resolution: 1080 x 1080 pixels (upload the video with only the highest resolution)
  • Recommended Aspect Ratio: 4:5
  • Supported Aspect Ratio: From 1.91:1 to 9:16
  • Maximum File Size: 4 GB
  • Video Length: Can be anywhere between 1 second to 60 minutes
  • Recommended File Format: MP4, MOV, or GIF (additional types are also supported)
  • Maximum Number Of Tags: 30 
  • Primary Text: 125 
  • Other Recommendations: Video Captions and Video Sound are also recommended to be utilized properly to increase the engagement rate.

These are the specifications and some important things that need to be kept in mind. 

For a more detailed understanding, you can refer to Meta’s official page regarding the same.

2. Instagram Reels Video Ads

instagram reel video ads

Surely, you’ve heard of Instagram Reels!

Heck, some people must’ve even been bored by now of reading this article and planning to retreat back to the pavilion (reels) to strategize. 

In the year of 2020, Instagram reels came into existence dethroning IGTV videos and claiming the crown for itself.

Since then reels have only continued to grow at an exponential rate. 

What are Instagram reel ads you ask?

Simply put, it’s an advertisement in a video format that comes up from time to time while someone is surfing reels.

These are full-screen, vertical videos that look like a doppelganger of Instagram Stories ads, but only better! 

Instagram Reels Video Ads Sizes and Specifications:

  • Video Resolution: 500 x 888 pixels 
  • Recommended Aspect Ratio: 9:16
  • Maximum File Size: 4 GB
  • Video Length: 1 second to 15 minutes
  • Recommended Video Format: MP4, MOV
  • Video Settings: H.2644 compressions, fixed frame rate, square pixels, and progressive scan
  • Audio Settings: stereo AAC audio compression, 128kbps+
  • Primary Text: 72 characters
  • Other Recommendations: Like in-feed video ads, an Instagram Reels ad doesn’t need to have video sound and captions but it is highly recommended to do so otherwise.

Some things that need to be kept in mind:

  • Reel ads should not contain reels published before the 15th of October 2021.
  • Also, licensed music shouldn’t be used in a reel ad. However, royalty-free music can be used.
  • Reel ads shouldn’t contain media that might have a face or some sort of camera effect. 
  • Media with a GIF is also considered a no-go while producing a reel ad.
  • Reel ads should not contain media with product tags.

These are the specifications and some important things that need to be kept in mind. 

For a more detailed understanding, you can refer to Meta’s official page regarding the same.

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3. Carousel Instagram Video Ads

carousel instagram video ads

Carousel ad is a type of ad that is an amalgamation of photos or videos in one single ad. 

We are pretty sure that you might’ve actually come across these types of ads more often than you think you did on the platform. 

These types of ads showcase a number of videos or photos in a single ad to make it look more like candy to the eye and to also improve the chances of a successful conversion. 

These ads are really popular with the masses because one can interact with the ad and see for themselves what’s in store for them. 

Boasting an impressive CTR (click-through rate) of 72% which is actually quite higher than some other types of ads, these types of ads are preferred by all! 

Instagram Carousel Video Ads Sizes and Specifications:

  • Video Resolution Per Card: 600 x 600 pixels 
  • Maximum Resolution: 1080 x 1080 pixels
  • Recommended Aspect Ratio: 1:1
  • Recommended Video Formats: MP4, MOV or GIF
  • Video Length: 1 second to 2 minutes
  • Maximum Number of Carousel Cards: 10
  • Minimum Number Of Carousel Cards: 2
  • Maximum Video Size: 4 GB 
  • Primary Text: 125
  • Maximum Number of Hashtags: 30 
  • Other Requirements: Landing page’s URL 

4. Instagram Story Video Ads

instagram story video ads

Many business firms often opt to create an Instagram story ad because of their affinity towards a higher engagement rate due to them being riveting and captivating. 

These ads as their names suggest are those which are created with keeping the stories feature of Instagram in mind. 

These ads are vertical like any other ads on the platform mainly due to the huge user base on mobile devices on Instagram.

With more than 500 million daily users and 21.2% more interactions for videos, Instagram story ads is an option that seems hard to miss out on!

Instagram Story Video Ads Sizes and Specifications:

  • Recommended Resolution: At the very least 1080 x 1080 pixels
  • Aspect Ratio: 9:16
  • File Type: MP4, MOV or GIF
  • Recommended Video Length: 5-15 seconds
  • Video Duration: 1 second to 60 minutes
  • Maximum File Size: 4 GB 
  • Minimum Width: 500 pixels
  • Primary Text: 125 characters
  • Other recommendations: Video captions and sound
  • Aspect ratio tolerance: 1%

hese are the specifications and some important things that need to be kept in mind. 

For a more detailed understanding, you can refer to Meta’s official page regarding the same.

Instagram Video Ads Best Practices

Here are some useful tips and tricks that might help you down the road in your journey of structuring an Instagram video ad.

1. Make Improvements In Your CTA

instagram video ads CTA

Have you ever noticed something like “learn more” or maybe “shop now” if you stumbled upon an ad on Instagram? 

Those are one of many forms of CTA (Call to action) and also what we’ll be having a brief discussion about!

By improving your CTA, you’re able to communicate with your audience more distinctly about what exactly you want them to do next. 

For this, your CTA needs to be as concise, simple, and straightforward as possible.

2. Seasonality of Instagram Video Ads

seasonality of instagram video ads

Staying on top of the industry trends is one of the most important things you need to do if you want to launch your own marketing campaign.

For this, one must be thoroughly informed about the current trends, about what will do good or won’t perform well in the market according to that information. 

Keeping track of seasons is also important, especially for someone in the clothing business.

Nobody would buy a product that’s out of season or isn’t in trend! 

Only after such careful research and evaluation, should one proceed with the marketing.

A business firm needs to be well-informed and dynamic to adapt to this ever-changing industry and to grow.

3. Make Your Hook Count

instagram video ads hook

If the initial 2-3 seconds of the ad doesn’t have what it takes to capture the audience’s attention then it is most likely that it won’t do so even in its latter phase.

The majority of people on Instagram aren’t interested in seeing ads. 

So, to truly keep someone hooked and invested in your advertisement would take a lot of creativity.

Moreover, that ad would need to do so instantly without wasting a second. 

To do so you can incorporate some bold statements or comments just in the initial phase of the ad.

Something that a viewer isn’t expecting to hear all of a sudden will most likely capture his attention.

Here are some examples of a good hook that you can refer to:

  • Starting the video with a question
  • Did you know…
  • This will change your life
  • Stop scrolling!

4. Currency And Languages

localized instagram video ads

If you want to advertise globally, consider currencies and languages.

Imagine someone clicks your ad, but can't understand the currency or language on the landing page. 

It would be inconvenient and they might not buy.

To boost global sales, optimize your landing page for different currencies and languages.

Incorporate video localization while making your Instagram Video Ads 

This will help you reach more customers in new markets!

5. Make It Snappy And Incisive

snappy instagram video ads

This is actually an excellent trick to make your video ad come into the limelight quickly!

This is also a trend nowadays.

Making your video ads in a fast-paced manner and using some impactful lines along the way is a great way to capture someone’s attention.

By doing so you can not only pass on a lot of information to your audience in just a few seconds but also at the same time increase the retention rate too. 

That’s like killing two birds with a stone!

So, fast and punchy is the way to go in short!

The attention span of an adult is only 8 seconds according to Microsoft!

So, in this age with such low attention spans this trick works like a charm.

Best Instagram Video Ads Examples

best instagram video ads examples

Here are some of the best examples you can refer to in your venture of procuring an Instagram video ad!

1. Instagram In-Feed Video Ad Example

 

What makes this stand out?

This in-feed video ad for Samsung’s S24 Ultra is effective because it creatively showcases the phone’s features with engaging visuals and animations. 

It grabs attention quickly, highlights the sleek design and advanced AI capabilities of the phone, and conveys its high-end status, making it appealing to viewers who value technology and innovation. 

The ad’s animation adds a dynamic touch that can make the product memorable to potential customers.

2. Instagram Reels Video Ad Example

 

What makes this stand out?

This Instagram Reel video ad of the Clove agent in Valorant is impressive because it showcases the character’s unique abilities in an easy-to-understand and visually engaging way. 

The video highlights Clove’s gameplay style and her role as a controller agent, which can be both aggressive and strategic.

It’s a quick and effective way to introduce players to what they can expect from using Clove in their matches. 

Plus, the production quality and the inclusion of game footage make it an exciting watch for fans of the game

3. Carousel Instagram Video Ad Example

 

What makes this stand out?

This carousel video ad from Google is a good example because it’s a creative and interactive way to showcase multiple features or products in a single post. 

The animation makes the content more engaging and easier to digest, while the carousel format allows viewers to swipe through different slides at their own pace, which can lead to better understanding and retention of the information presented. 

It’s a smart use of Instagram’s capabilities to capture audience interest and convey a message effectively.

4. Instagram Stories Video Ad Example

 

What makes this stand out?

Imagine a canvas where colors dance to the rhythm of knowledge, and each frame is a doorway to endless possibilities—that’s the essence of the Open University’s animated stories video ad on Instagram. 

It’s like a visual symphony that captures the spirit of learning, with vibrant animations that bring the adventure of education to life. 

The ad is a creative masterpiece, painting a picture of the university’s offerings in a way that’s as inviting as a warm, open book on a rainy day. 

It’s not just an ad; it’s a beacon for curious minds to embark on a journey of discovery and growth.

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Instagram Video Ads FAQs

instagram video ads faq

1. How Much Does an Instagram Video Ad Cost?

Instagram CPC ranges from $0.40 to $0.70.

For ads with a URL, it's $0.50 to $0.95.

Instagram CPE and CPM vary from $0.01 to $0.05 and $2.50 to $3.50, respectively.

2. How Much Are Instagram Video Ads per 1,000 Views?

Businesses that are advertising on Instagram on average spend about $0.25 to more than $2 per click and from anywhere between $4 to $10 per 1,000 views. 

3. Do Video Ads Perform Better on Instagram?

Yes, ads, especially video ads, perform better on Instagram than on other platforms.

Video ads on Instagram get more likes and comments on average.

With millions of users on the app all the time, it's like a gold mine

4. What Type of Video Ads Do Best on Instagram?

Video ads tend to perform so much better in contrast to the image ads on Instagram.

According to statistics, video ads get 612% more likes and comments than image ads. 

Now it's up to you to decide which type of Instagram video ads will get the job done for you.

5. What is The Ideal Length For An Instagram Video Ad?

Story video ads are 5 - 15 seconds long, while reel video ads are 30 seconds long.

In-feed video ads can be up to 60 minutes, but let’s be honest, no one pays attention to those.

So, it's best to keep your Instagram video ad length short and sweet!

Conclusion 

instagram video ads

In the end, it can be said that Instagram video ads are a tool that if utilized correctly can prove to be a great asset.

There are way too many ways to increase the engagement rate or retention rate of a viewer. 

It basically comes down to keeping your audience invested and intrigued by implementing various tactics for successful sales conversion.

Now, it’s about time to wrap up this article. 

Thank you for being here with us up until here.

Also, look forward to more such interesting articles only on Broadcast2World!

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