UPSTIR Blog

How to storyboard a short-form video ad

Creative tips
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.

  • 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.