If you’re not using video ads on Facebook and Instagram, you’re missing out on one of the most effective ways to stop the scroll and spark sales.
Video ads grab attention faster, tell a better product story, and drive stronger engagement than static images. But as a beginner, figuring out what type of video to make—or how to even start—can feel overwhelming.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know to launch high-impact video ads that actually convert, even if you have zero editing experience.
Why Video Ads Work So Well on Facebook & Instagram
Here’s what makes video ads such a powerful tool for Shopify sellers and marketers:
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People remember video: Users retain 95% of a message when they watch it in video form (compared to just 10% when reading it in text).
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Videos autoplay in-feed: That motion instantly draws attention—critical when fighting for clicks.
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They’re mobile-first: Most Facebook and Instagram users are scrolling on mobile, and short videos fit naturally in the feed.
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They build trust faster: Videos let you show your product in use, highlight customer results, and add personality to your brand.
Types of Video Ads That Work for Beginners
You don’t need fancy gear to create effective videos—your phone and a good idea will do the trick. Start with one of these beginner-friendly formats:
1. Product Demo Videos
Show how your product works in real life. Keep it simple and focused on benefits.
Example: A quick clip showing how a backpack fits everything a student needs in one go.
💡 Tip: Shoot in natural light and add captions for sound-off viewers.
2. Unboxing or First-Impression Clips
People love seeing what they’ll get before buying. Unboxing videos are great for building anticipation and highlighting packaging details.
Example: A customer opening a skincare kit and reacting to the quality and presentation.
3. Before-and-After Videos
Perfect for health, beauty, fitness, or home improvement brands. Visually showcase transformation.
Example: “Day 1 vs. Day 30” with clear side-by-side shots.
4. Lifestyle Montages
Use a mix of short clips to show your product being used in daily life. Add upbeat music and quick cuts for energy.
Example: A fitness brand showing people using their gear at home, at the gym, and on the go.
5. Text-Overlay Explainers
If you’re camera-shy, use a static product video with bold text overlays explaining benefits, pricing, or USPs (Unique Selling Propositions).
Tips for Making Video Ads That Convert
Even if you’re just starting out, these practical tips can make a big difference:
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Hook viewers in the first 3 seconds
Use movement, a bold question, or a surprising visual to grab attention instantly. -
Keep it short and snappy
Aim for 15–30 seconds. Short-form content performs best for TOF (Top of Funnel) campaigns. -
Design for sound-off
Use captions or text overlays so viewers can understand your message without audio. -
Vertical format first
Prioritize 9:16 videos (vertical) for Stories, Reels, and mobile feeds. Crop versions for 1:1 or 4:5 as needed. -
Always add a CTA
End your video with a clear next step: “Shop now,” “Learn more,” or “Try it risk-free.”
Where to Use Your Video Ads in the Funnel
Understanding where your video ad fits in the customer journey is key to choosing the right content:
| Funnel Stage | Goal | Video Type |
|---|---|---|
| TOF (Awareness) | Grab attention | Product teaser, lifestyle montage, quick how-to |
| MOF (Consideration) | Build trust | Demo, testimonial, review-based video |
| BOF (Conversion) | Close the sale | Offer-focused, unboxing, before-and-after |
Pair the right content with the right audience, and you’ll see better engagement and lower CPA.
Tools & Apps for Easy Video Creation
You don’t need Adobe Premiere to make killer ads. Try these beginner-friendly tools:
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CapCut – Free, mobile-friendly, and TikTok-style editing made easy
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InVideo – Drag-and-drop templates with stock assets
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Canva Video – Great for animated product explainers
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Adobe Express – Lightweight and intuitive video templates
These tools let you edit on your phone or desktop, often with ready-made templates designed for Facebook and Instagram ads.
Final Thoughts
Video isn’t just the future of Facebook and Instagram ads—it’s the now.
Whether you’re launching your first product or scaling a store, using short-form video ads is one of the smartest ways to engage your audience and drive results.
Start simple, focus on clarity, and remember: done is better than perfect.
Your first video doesn’t need to win awards—it just needs to stop the scroll and spark a click.