Great ads don’t happen by accident. Even a raw UGC video should follow a structure. The best way to stay sharp, visual, and focused? Build a simple storyboard.
Here’s how to map out your 15-second ad before you hit record.
1. Hook (0–3 seconds)
Grab attention immediately. The first frame should pop.
2. Problem (3–6 seconds)
Highlight the pain or frustration your product solves.
3. Solution (6–12 seconds)
Reveal your product doing the work.
4. Call to action (12–15 seconds)
End with clarity and purpose.
Tips for better storyboards
Final thought
Storyboards keep your shoot tight and your message clear. Whether you’re filming UGC or a polished brand ad, plan the beats — and let the visuals do the work.
Want to avoid the five most common video ad mistakes?
Download our free guide at upstir.co/5-video-ad-mistakes
It is 14 pages of real tips to help you improve your hooks, lower ad costs, and create content that actually works.
Here’s how to map out your 15-second ad before you hit record.
1. Hook (0–3 seconds)
Grab attention immediately. The first frame should pop.
- Use bold text on screen
- Start with a strong facial expression
- Show the “after” before the “before”
- Example: “If your moisturizer looks like this, throw it out”
2. Problem (3–6 seconds)
Highlight the pain or frustration your product solves.
- One short sentence, either spoken or text
- Show the “before” situation visually
- Example: Dry skin, broken zipper, tangled cords
3. Solution (6–12 seconds)
Reveal your product doing the work.
- Apply it, use it, interact with it
- Include reactions, close-ups, and motion
- Text overlay should describe the benefit: “Hydrates instantly” or “Fits in any bag”
4. Call to action (12–15 seconds)
End with clarity and purpose.
- “Tap below to shop”
- “Only a few left”
- Show product packaging or brand name clearly
Tips for better storyboards
- Use 4–5 frames max
- Think in actions, not dialogue
- Keep captions and voice lines short — 6–8 words
- Use arrows, text overlays, and camera movement to add energy
Final thought
Storyboards keep your shoot tight and your message clear. Whether you’re filming UGC or a polished brand ad, plan the beats — and let the visuals do the work.
Want to avoid the five most common video ad mistakes?
Download our free guide at upstir.co/5-video-ad-mistakes
It is 14 pages of real tips to help you improve your hooks, lower ad costs, and create content that actually works.