Hey! Making video ads doesn’t always mean spending $50k. Sometimes all you need is a tiny production. Here’s how I created four short video ads for my client, HiBob: 1. ConceptsI presented my ideas like this: 2. ScriptsThen I turned the chosen ideas into scripts: For the visual reference part, Google’s Nano Banana makes it easy to adjust facial expressions and change details: Also, if you’re stuck or on a tight deadline, you can ask GPT to turn your concept into a script. 🤖 Prompt: “Turn this ad concept into a two-column script with “Visual” on the left and “Audio” on the right.” 3. Pre-ProductionWhile polishing the script, I started prepping the production. I focused on five things: I. Cast and CrewTiny, as promised.
II. WardrobeI put together a wardrobe guide for the actors and asked them to bring their own outfits. III. LocationsWe decided to shoot at HiBob’s office, so I took a tour and booked six spaces in advance. It’s amazing how many different spots you can find in a typical office. IV. ScheduleThe most time-consuming parts are changing outfits, moving locations, and adjusting light setups. So I planned the schedule and shot list to keep those to a minimum. V. Gear and propsI went through my scripts line by line and made a list of everything we’d need on set. Then I asked ChatGPT to do the same, just to make sure I didn’t miss anything. 🤖 GPT prompt: Read these ad scripts and create a full gear and prop checklist for the shoot.
• Break it down by department: camera, audio, lighting, grip, props, wardrobe, makeup, safety, paperwork.
• Include all small items people often forget (batteries, cables, gaffer tape, backups, cleaning kits, release forms, snacks, water, etc.). • Add a scene-by-scene breakdown of what’s needed where. • Flag critical items vs. nice-to-haves. • Include duplicates/backups for anything that could fail. [Attach script PDF] 4. The ShootThe night before, I was ANXIOUS. But I ended up having so much fun! Most of my work is just me and my laptop, so it felt awesome to move around and interact with people for a change 🥲 5. EditingMy friend Tseily handled the editing, and I designed the graphics. We used Frame.io to collaborate and polish the videos. And finally, after five revisions, the ads were ready: You made it! 🕺By the way, I created another ad using only AI. Next time, I’ll break down the tools, prompts, and process behind it. Talk soon, P.S. 400+ marketers have taken my course: Boring Products, Fun Ads. |
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Read in your browser↗ Hey! I created this AI ad for my client: Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process, prompts, and prices. Step 1: Inspiration 🛠️ TikTok (free) and Perplexity ($20/mo) A few months ago, I saw a TikTok of a woman working on her laptop in the ocean. I wasn’t sure what I was going to do with it, but I knew it was a fantastic visual hook, so I created this little mood board. Then, while doing research for HiBob’s payroll feature launch, I saw this Reddit comment....
Read in your browser↗ Hey! Constantly coming up with new ads is hard... But a technique I learned from Pablo Rochat makes it easier. Credit: Nicer Tuesdays I call it Square Storming. And here's how I used it to come up with 100+ ads for my client, AppsFlyer: SPONSOR I use Senja to collect, organize, and share testimonials from my course students: And when I advise startups, Senja is the first tool I recommend, because nothing boosts conversions faster than social proof. SPONSOR Step 1: I...
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