The Power of Short Video Ads: Trends & Why Quality Matters
Short video ads are dominating digital marketing, especially on platforms like Instagram and Facebook. As consumer habits shift, businesses must adapt to stay relevant. Across the Gold Coast and Brisbane, brands are seeing real results from quick, engaging videos designed to grab attention fast. The popularity of raw, phone-shot content continues to rise. However, high-quality video production still plays a crucial role in making brands stand out among the scrolls and swipes.
At Eyetell, we believe the real power comes from using both—leveraging raw, authentic clips alongside high-quality, professionally produced ads. Here’s what’s trending in short-form video ads and why investing in quality production is key to standing out.
What’s Trending in Short Video Ads?
- Fast-Paced, Attention-Grabbing Edits
You only have a few seconds to make an impact. With quick cuts, bold text, and dynamic visuals, short videos can stop the scroll and hook viewers instantly. - Native-Style Ads That Don’t Look Like Ads
Instead of standing out as traditional ads, effective short videos now blend into users’ feeds. Many brands are embracing UGC-style formats filmed on phones. When combined with professional production, these ads still feel authentic while delivering impact and trust. - Vertical-First Approach
Most short-form videos are viewed on mobile devices, which means vertical formats (9:16) are key. Therefore, optimizing for this format ensures maximum reach and engagement. Repurposing landscape videos into mobile-friendly vertical cuts helps maintain audience engagement. - Hook-First Storytelling
Opening with a bold statement, a relatable problem, or a strong emotional hook sets the tone. Capturing attention right away increases the chances your audience will watch to the end. - Test, Learn, and Adapt
No two campaigns perform the same. Tracking results, listening to feedback, and adapting your content ensures your video strategy keeps improving month after month. Consequently, this continuous refinement leads to stronger audience connections and better overall performance.
Why High-Quality Video Production Still Wins
While raw, phone-shot content is effective, polished, high-quality ads bring credibility, trust, and brand authority. Here’s why brands should combine both approaches:
✔ Professional production increases conversion rates – Clean visuals, smooth motion graphics, and high-end cinematography elevate a brand’s perception.
✔ Stronger storytelling – A well-planned video with sharp scripting and editing makes messaging clearer and more compelling.
✔ Better brand consistency – Professionally produced content aligns with brand aesthetics, ensuring recognizable, cohesive marketing.
✔ Reusability – A single, high-quality ad can be repurposed across multiple platforms, maintaining impact over time.
✔ Authority & Trust – Investing in professional video signals to your audience that your company is established, successful, and serious about quality. It also builds confidence that the product or service you’re offering will be high quality too—because when people see you investing in how you present your business, they trust you’ll do the same in what you deliver.
Our Work with UNLCKD: A Case Study in Short Video Ads
For over a year, we’ve been creating monthly Instagram and Facebook ads for UNLCKD, designed to trigger excitement and drive subscriptions. Each ad is:
- Short, high-energy, and visually engaging
- Strategically tested and refined each month
- A balance of raw & high-quality production
- Themed differently each time for fresh engagement
Over time, we’ve analyzed performance and adapted the short video ads content to what works best. The result? Ads that continue to convert, excite, and engage.
Final Thoughts: The Smartest Approach
Raw, phone-shot videos are part of the strategy, not the whole solution. In contrast, professionally produced videos add polish and credibility, reinforcing brand trust. Brands that combine authentic, organic-style content with professionally produced high-impact ads get the best of both worlds.
If you’re looking to elevate your short video ads strategy, let’s chat about how we can create high-performing, high-quality content that gets results.