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Getting started · 2 min read

Create your first video ad

Go from a product brief to a finished video, with a review at each important step.

01Start with the right flow

Choose Create ad in your workspace when you want to turn a brief into an ad. If you already have a video whose action and cuts you want to follow, choose Clone an ad instead. The cloning guide covers that workflow.

For a first project, keep the idea focused: one audience, one product benefit, and one action you want the viewer to take. A short, concrete brief gives you something specific to judge at review.

02Describe the moment, not just the product

Enter your brand details and describe the character, situation, and result. Include any product facts or claims the ad must avoid. A product photo helps give the ad a visual reference for what you sell.

Example

A busy commuter is looking for her keys before leaving home. She taps the tracker app, hears a chirp from under the couch, and finds them. Show the relief of getting out the door. End with “Find your everyday essentials with Finder.” Do not claim the tracker prevents theft.

03Review before moving on

Keep automatic progression off when you want to review the work. The standard ad flow includes the character, script, sound, stills, clips, and final assembly. Some settings change which steps are needed.

At script review, read the actual lines aloud. Check the brand name, the order of events, and whether the ending asks the viewer to do the right thing. At still review, check faces, clothing, product appearance, and continuity before approving animation.

  1. Correct the character before approving it.
  2. Check the script and sound before approving the stills.
  3. Select any stills that need another attempt, then submit them together.
  4. Approve the stills when you are ready to animate them.

04Watch the complete result

When assembly finishes, play the whole ad with sound. Check the beginning, transitions, and final line together; individual scenes can look right while a cut still feels abrupt.

Use the finished ad’s download control to save the MP4 or Copy share link to send a viewing link. Anyone with that link can watch the shared video.

Try it in your workspace

Put the next step into practice with your own brand and references.

Open make.ad

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