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23 Instagram Story Ad Examples To Double Your Leads & Sales

Have you been looking for Instagram Story Ad Examples that will help get your leads and sales? Well, look no further. We have collected some of the TOP Instagram Story Ads Examples for Services, Ecommerce, Information: course and summits, and software that we think you really need to see. Be able to showcase your product, service or brand in just a 15 second with an engaging video or image from your Instagram Feed to your Instagram Stories.

Why use Instagram Story Ads you ask?

  • - Reach new audiences
  • - Showcase products, services, business and brands to an already engaged audience
  • - Grab attention quickly
  • - High engagement rates
  • - Lower cost on story ads when done right

Scroll down to learn more about Instagram Story Ads, get some tips and see some proven Instagram Story Ad Examples from some of your favorite companies

What is a Facebook Video ad exactly?

Instagram Stories are a new way of tapping into the passions and desires of your target audience and inspire them to take action. An Instagram Story Ad is an ad in your instagram stories created based off of your feed and / or stories that you have posted to your account. Instagram Stories are one of the fastest growing ad placement platforms for both daily interactions and ad inventory growth. One third of the most viewed Instagram stories come directly from businesses. 

There is a lot of organic content on Instagram stories which provide new advertising opportunities. When done right, story ads can mix right in with the organic content and need not be as obvious and in your face like other ad types can. These ads are 15 seconds long,  take over the full screen,  can be both a video or just an image and can be used to convey multiple objectives.

You can use Instagram Story ads to:

  • - Showcase products, services or brands
  • - Grab attention quickly
  • - Deliver a single message
  • - Build brand awareness 
  • - Drive action through purchase, installs, likes, comments

Scroll down if you would like to see some of the Top Ranking Instagram Story Ad examples in 4 different business categories from some of your favorite companies. For each of these ads we have listed what we like about them, what can be done better, and who these ads are targeted towards. These ads can be used as inspiration for your own ads. 

23 Best Instagram Story Ad Examples

Below you will find 23 of the best Instagram Story Ad Examples that we have collected to serve as inspiration to you. These ads come from top ranking companies that you are sure to have heard of and may have seen before. We will be giving you an insight into what we think is good about each ad, what we think can be improved and who these ads are targeted towards.

Keep Scrolling to see our Instagram Story Ad Example collection. Find out what we like about each Instagram Story Ad Example and what may need a bit of improving.

Best Story ads for Ecommerce

1. Nuggs

Nuggs is a startup company that produces plant based "chicken" nuggets simulation products under their parent company SIMULATE. It has evolved into the fastest growing nugget company in the world

Ad Image & Copy:

Ad Video:

Who is this ad for ?

This ad is targeted towards chicken nugget lovers who may want to try an alternative plant based version of the tasty snack. And for people who are vegan or are on a specific diet that are looking for healthier version of this well known and loved snack.

What makes this ad good?

  • - Showcases and highlights the product.
  • - Uses short, funny and clever text in the ad. This provokes interest and will get more views.
  •  - The visuals show what can be done with the product. It highlights that it can be dip or “drenched” in sauce just like a regular nugget can.
  • - Benefits of the product are also listed in the ad such as it being vegan/ plant based ingredients

What could be improved?

  • - Company name should be shown if not throughout then in the first and last few seconds of the ad.
  • - This ad can use more CTA’s and sales text to tell the viewer exactly what you want them to do from this ad and with this product.
  • - The ad could have shown the benefits of the product for a few seconds longer as it fades out quickly in the end.

2. Strainge Beast

Strainge Beast is a "hard kombucha", which is a fermented alcohol drink and is produced by the company Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.. This drink is organic, gluten free and made simply from the fermentation of fruits, citrus, herbs and roots.

Ad Image & Copy:

Ad Video:

Who is this ad for ?

This ad is for people who may be interested in trying a new type of  alcoholic drink that is organic. Also for people who already enjoy kombucha and would like to try it from a new /  different brand.

What makes this ad good?

  • - Interesting, creative and original content.
  • - This ad is a bit strange but it grabs the attention of viewers who will try to figure out what is happening in the ad
  • - The ad highlights the product and showcases the ingredients that go into creating it so that viewers know what exactly they are getting. 
  • - Uses vibrant and eye catching colors  to catch attention when viewers are flipping through their stories

What could be improved?

  • - There could have been text listing the ingredients that are being shown and / or the process of production
  • - Benefits of the product could have also been listed in the ad 
  • - Show the company name in the beginning or throughout the ad not just at the end. Viewers will be interested after seeing this ad
  • - Add in CTA’s to tell viewers what you want them to do from this ad

3. Pela Case

Pela Case is a company that creates eco-friendly protective phone cases for Apple, Samsung and Google phones. These cases are 100% biodegradable and are made with the environment in mind. The cases can be degraded in a composting environment.

Ad Image & Copy:

Ad Video:

Who is this ad for ?

This ad is for anyone in the market for a new cell phone case and are also interested in doing something good for the environment. And for people interested in a buy one get one free deal on phone cases.

What makes this ad good?

  • - This ad uses its own original content to highlight the product
  • - Simple yet creative design that showcases the different type of products that are available 
  • - Shows the product in its indeed use so that viewers can see what it looks like on the phones and accessories to help them with decision making.
  • - Text gives information on the available offer

What could be improved?

  • - Benefits of the product can be listed as well in the text to tell viewers why your product is different and why they should buy yours instead
  • - The company name should be on the ad so that viewers know it and it can be remembered even after viewing the ad

4. Mejuri

Mejuri is a company that creates and sells high quality and accessible jewelry. They have a selection of different pieces from rings to necklaces that can be worn every day and not just for special occasions.

Ad Image & Copy:

Ad Video:

Who is this ad for ?

This ad is for people, mainly females, that are interested in purchasing some new high quality jewelry that can be worn on special occasions and everyday. And for anyone looking for an accessible gift to get someone.

What makes this ad good?

  • - Showcases and highlights the product
  • - Gives a demonstration with the product
  • - Benefits of the product are listed 
  • - Fast movement through the video

What could be improved?

  • - The text in the ad can be in a bigger font as it may be hard for some viewers to read in the fast paced ad
  • - There should be more CTA’s added in the ad so that viewers will know what to do. As the ad stands right now, the product is just being shown and there is no indication that they want you to buy it.

5. Wizeband

Wizeband is a company that creates and produces unique high quality watch bands. These bands can be bought and shipped worldwide. They are mostly for apple watches.

Ad Image & Copy:

Ad Video:

Who is this ad for ?

This ad is targeted towards people who are in the market for new bands for their watches. But specifically to people who have apple watches and are interested in receiving a discount on new watch bands.

What makes this ad good?

  • - The company name and offer are visible throughout the entire video
  • - Shows the different selections and styles of their product that are available. 
  • - Highlights the product and shows it in use on different watch types

What could be improved?

  • - Benefits of the product should have been listed as they tell viewers why they should buy from your company
  • - A better and brighter background could have been used to highlight the products being shown. As it stands now the products can easily fade into the background
  • - A “swipe up” link should have been added to show what you want viewers to do

6. Morphe

Morphe is a company that retails and creates high-quality, professional-grade makeup, makeup tools, skin care item and accessories at affordable prices.

Ad Image & Copy:

Ad Video:

Who is this ad for ?

This ad is targeted towards makeup lovers who may be interested in getting their hands on the company's new collection in collaboration with well known dancer / ex-reality star, Maddie Ziegler.

What makes this ad good?

  • - Bright colors and well placed imagery and text which helps to draw in the attention of viewers
  • - Shows and highlights the entire collection of items available from the collaboration
  • - Original and creative design

What could be improved?

  • - There could have been more CTA’s added such as a “swipe up” link  or “shop now” button for indicate what the viewers should do next 
  • - The text at the bottom of the ad could have been styled in a different way as the very last sentence “Starting at $12” can be hard to read for some viewers

7. Away

Away is a company that creates light weight luggage bundles. Though mainly known for their suitcase collections, Away also produce handbags suited for both travel and everyday life.

Ad Image & Copy:

Ad Video:

Who is this ad for ?

This ad is targeted towards travel lovers and overall anyone who is the market for some new travel luggage and/or handbags. The handbags are all suited for everyday use and not just for travel.

What makes this ad good?

  • - Showcases multiple versions an colors of the products that are available for purchase from this company 
  • - Vibrant eye catching colors that will help to grab attention of viewers 
  • - Company name is shown so that viewers will remember the brand 
  • - Short but interesting

What could be improved?

  • - There could have been more CTA’s added such as a “swipe up” link  or “shop now” button to indicate what the viewers should do next 
  • - There also could have been benefits listed in the video to tell viewers why they should use this company over others

Best Story ads for Software

8. Leadpages

Leadpages is a software company that helps small businesses connect with their audiences, get leads, and close sales. Be able to easily build websites, landing pages, pop-ups, and more.

Ad Image & Copy:

Ad Video:

Who is this ad for ?

This ad is target towards people who would like to build their own websites for a business that they have just started. They can learn how to create, design and grow their website. Also for people interested in a free trial before committing to the software.

What makes this ad good?

  • - Bright colors helps to draw in attention
  • - Fast movement through the ad but still readable
  • - Shows a demonstration of what can be created with using the product 
  • - Company name can be seen through the ad 
  • - Benefits are listed to show why viewers should use this website

What could be improved?

  • - The font size of the text at the end that says “ Start your free trial” should be bigger or bolded as that is your CTA and you what viewers to click on it. 
  • - A “swipe up’ link can also be added

9. Grammarly

Grammarly is a digital writing assistant that helps to write clearly and in a more effective way.

Who is this ad for ?

This ad is for people who make grammar and writing mistakes that would like to eliminate this challenge and have better writing and communication skills. Viewers are able to download the autocorrecting keyboard to help eliminate typos and have better writing skills.

What makes this ad good?

  • - Benefit is used as the primary text in the ad it is one of the first things that viewers will notice when they look at the ad
  • - Bright colors help to catch attention
  • - CTA words and buttons are used in the text to tell viewers what they want them to do

What could be improved?

  • - The image could have shown the app in used so that viewers will know what they will be getting 
  • - Company name should be visible on the ad

10. HubSpot

HubSpot is an all in one marketing software company that has a platform of sales, marketing, CRM and customer service that can be used to help grow businesses. With this software you can use tools to help your company with social media, email, marketing automation and more.

Ad Image & Copy:

Ad Video:

Who is this ad for ?

This ad is targeted towards business owners who would like to grow their businesses. Also for people who would like to do better in different aspects of their business such as marketing and customer service.

What makes this ad good?

  • - Lists what the software can be used for which helps to get viewers more interested in the ad 
  • - Fast movement in the ad
  • - Short and straight forward text. Viewers will know what the company can help them with

What could be improved?

  • - Add in CTA  to tell viewers what you want them to do next now that they are interested in your ad. 
  • - Could have gotten more creative with the design and added in images of the software being used etc.
  • - Additional text about the company can help to get viewers more interested

11. Kayla Itsines

Kayla Itsines is a personal trainer, entrepreneur and author. She is the creator of the fitness app Sweat. Sweat is one of the worlds largest female fitness communities. This company provides a vast selection of at home and in gym workouts for women.

Ad Image & Copy:

Ad Video:

Who is this ad for ?

This ad for people who are interested in downloading a new home workout app that provides training sessions in multiple different workout areas. In this ad specifically yoga is being highlighted as 3 new instructors have been added and viewers are able to get a free trial. 

What makes this ad good?

  • - Company name is visible throughout the ad 
  • - The offer is also visible through so that viewers know what they will be getting from this ad
  • - Original content is used to showcase workouts from the app
  • - Highlights one of the different available workout from the app

What could be improved?

  • - The text could be in a different color and also placed in a different area to make it more readable for the viewers
  • - Add in “swipe up” link or another CTA button to show what you want your viewers to do next

12. Unbounce

Unbounce is a software that help to create and customize landing pages that will increase conversions and drive your business.  Be able to convert more visitors into leads, sales, and customers from your landing page by using this software.

Who is this ad for ?

This ad is targeted towards businesses and business people alike that would like to increase their conversion from their landing pages and turn them into leads, sales, & customers. Also for people who would like to create converting landing pages.

What makes this ad good?

  • - Bright eye catching colors and simple design 
  • - The text gets people interested and thinking about their business and increases interest in the ad
  • - Lists' a  benefit of using the software 
  • - Clear CTA’s let viewers know what to do next.

What could be improved?

  • - The text font size of “Conversion Benchmark Report” and “Swipe up to access the report” could have been slightly bigger so that all viewers are able to see it without some possibly having a hard time. 
  • - A CTA button could have been added in addition to the “swipe up” link.

13. Dropbox

Dropbox is file hosting website that let's you bring files and content together that can be shared through provide tools. You are able to save, store or send files to and from your cloud.

Ad Image & Copy:

Ad Video:

Who is this ad for ?

This ad is for people who would like to learn how to present in a video conference using Dropbox. Also for people who would like to learn new tips and tricks of using the website.

What makes this ad good?

  • - Creative and interesting design that draws attention 
  • - Short and straight forward text
  • - Viewers will know exactly what the ad is about when they see it

What could be improved?

  • - The CTA could have been in the center of the ad instead of on the side so that it is better to see and read
  • - The background could have been a different and more vibrant color to really catch the attention of the viewers who are flipping through their stories.

Best Story ads for Courses & Info products

14. DigitalMarketer

DigitalMarketer is a company that provides tools and training to become a better marketer. Be able to grow your sales and transform your marketing team with trainings and certifications in lead capturing and revenue generations.

Ad Image & Copy:

Ad Video:

Who is this ad for ?

This ad is targeted towards people who are interested in learning more about the customer journey, how to attract customers, and how to get them to keep coming back. This is also for people who are interested in using this company and would like a free trial period before they commit.

What makes this ad good?

  • - Creative and original design that gets people interested 
  • - Benefits are listed so that viewers know what they will be able to learn
  • - Viewers will know exactly what this ad is about when they see it

What could be improved?

  • - A “swipe up link” or another CTA button could have been placed in the ad to encourage viewers to engage
  • - There could be more color added to the visuals to help draw in viewers attention

15. Michael Hyatt

Michael Hyatt is the founder and CEO of a fast growing leadership development company. He is also a best selling author that teaches people tools on how to win at work and succeed at life.

Who is this ad for ?

This ad is for people who would like to learn more on how to be more productive in their work and in life. Also for people who may be stuck at a pain point and would like a solution.

What makes this ad good?

  • - Creative design and good choice of colors
  • - The text is clear and viewers will know what the ad is about and what is being offered
  • - “Swipe up” link is present on the ad which encourages viewers to engage

What could be improved?

  • - The company name should be visible on the ad so that viewers will remember you 
  • - Benefits can also be listed on the ad to help viewers with their decision making

16. Udemy

Udemy is an education website where people can take online courses such as programming, design, communication, personal development and more from high-rated instructors

Who is this ad for ?

This ad is for viewers who may be interested in learning new skills in this particular area. Also for people who may be interested in starting a career in this field, and for people who may already be in this field and would like to continue learning more or refresh their skills.

What makes this ad good?

  • - The text tells viewers exactly what this ad is about.
  • - Benefits of the course are listed on the ad
  • - The image used in the ad is relevant to the text  

What could be improved?

  • - Company name should be visible on the ad.
  • - There could be a CTA button to encourage viewers to engage
  • - Brighter colors could have been used to draw attention

17. Tony Robbins

Tony Robbins is an entrepreneur, NY Times best-selling author, philanthropist, and the nation’s #1 life and business strategist.

Who is this ad for ?

This ad is for people who would like to receive personal coaching from a well known business strategist who can help them with their own businesses.

What makes this ad good?

  • - This ad uses bright colors in the imagery and text 
  • - Creative design and image are used
  • - Coaches names listed on the ad so that viewers will remember

What could be improved?

  • - The ad could have had more text on what is actually being offered. For example what type of coaching 
  • - There could have also been benefits listed so that viewers know why they should get this offer and what they will be getting from it

Best Story ads for Services & Coaching

18. Acadium

Acadium is a company that offers online digital marketing courses and helps people find internships, mentorships, build connections and gain experience from business. They also help people to find jobs in the industry.

Ad Image & Copy:

Ad Video:

Who is this ad for ?

This ad is targeted towards anyone / businesses who would like to hire an apprentice and / or become a mentor to people to help get more work done for their companies. Also for people who are interested in gaining experience  by finding an internship, being mentored and doing work for different businesses.

What makes this ad good?

  • - Eye catching colors and well placed text
  • - Fast moving pace but still able to be read fully
  • - Company name is visible in the ad itself , well placed and present through the ad duration
  • - Solid background and clear CTA’s
  • - Made to be seen on a mobile app

What could be improved?

  • - More benefits could have been listed / shown throughout the ad 
  • - Additional interesting visuals could have been used to keep interest and encourage engagement
  • - There could have be a “swipe up” link to the company

19. Amazon

Amazon is the world's largest online retailer and prominent cloud services provider. This billion dollar company is the worlds leading digital retailor that sells almost anything and everything that you can thing of.

Ad Image & Copy:

Ad Video:

Who is this ad for ?

This ad is for online shoppers that may be in the market for some Christmas gifts for the holiday season. Also for anyone that is doing regular online shopping.

What makes this ad good?

  • - Very creative design and good choice of colors 
  • - Draws in attention with the reveal of items
  • - Shows items that can be purchased 
  • - Short text that indicates exactly what the ad is about
  • - Company name is visible, well placed

What could be improved?

  • - The items in the ad could have been shown for a few seconds longer
  • - Prices of the items could have been shown as well
  • - A “swipe up” link could have been added as a CTA that links the the items shown

20. KLM Royal Dutch Airline

KLM is the flag airline carrier of the Netherlands that operates both passenger and cargo services to 145 destinations. It is the world's oldest airline still operating under its original name.

Who is this ad for ?

 This ad is targeted towards travelers, people who are looking into traveling to a new destinations. Also for people who may be from this destination and may be wanting to go home.

What makes this ad good?

  • - Image is original and interesting 
  • - The vibrant color draw in attention of viewers 
  • - Shows the service provided 
  • - Company name is visible

What could be improved?

  • - There could be a CTA on the image itself
  • - Additional text could have been placed on the ad describing the service.

21. UberEats

UberEats is a food and grocery delivery service provided by its parent company and transport service Uber. Users are able to order from hundreds of restaurants that have signed up for this delivery service.

Ad Image & Copy:

Ad Video:

Who is this ad for ?

This ad is targeted towards people who have just started to use this service and would like to receive a discount on their first order. 

What makes this ad good?

  • - Fast moving pace but still readable
  • - Interesting design and effects the shows a product provided by the service
  • - Clear CTA’s at the beginning and at the end

What could be improved?

  • - This add could have used slightly brighter colors to really catch viewers attention
  • - The name of the company should be visible within the first 3 seconds or less

22. Airbnb

Airbnb is the world's largest community driven hospitality company that offers house rental service. This company was created by two designers who had extra space available that could be offered to travelers looking for a place to stay in the area. This marketplace connects people who have available homes and space to rent with people who are looking for accommodations in that same area.

Ad Image & Copy:

Ad Video:

Who is this ad for ?

This ad is for people who are looking to travel with or to meet their families for the holiday season and are looking for accommodation. Also for people who may be looking for a home away from home experience in their local area with their loved ones. 

What makes this ad good?

  • - Ad moves at a good pace to give viewers the opportunity to view it well
  • - A video of the offered service is provided to give viewers a look into what they can get by using this company.

What could be improved?

  • - This ad does not show the name of the company. The name of the company should be in the first few seconds as it helps viewers to remember you.
  • - Benefits of using this service could have been listed in the ad 
  • - There could be a change in the color of the text at the beginning as it slightly blends into the background and can be harder to read for some viewers

23. Spotify

Spotify is a digital music service that gives you access to millions of songs and different kind of podcast. This streaming service is used by millions of people all around the world.

Ad Image & Copy:

Ad Video:

Who is this ad for ?

This ad is targeted at music and podcast lovers alike that will like a playlist created of all sounds that they’ve liked and were hits over the past year. 

What makes this ad good?

  • - This ads visuals are  original, creative and uses eye catching colors to draw attention  
  • - The ad also uses clever word play in the text from one of the millions of song that can be streamed 
  • - The ad also showcases one of the well known artists whose music can be found on the service
  • - The company name is shown at the beginning and at the end of the ad which helps people to remember the ad and the company

What could be improved?

  • - There could have been more information provided in the ad about what “Wrapped” actually is
  • - There could have also been a CTA button in the ad or a “swipe up” link that tells viewers what you want them to do

4 Instagram Story Ad tips

Below we have collected 4 Instagram Story Ad Tips that you absolutely need to consider when creating your ad. We have also pointed these out in our Instagram Story Ad Examples. These tips will help you create quality ads that will grab attention and stand out from the rest.

  • 1) Make it count - Instagram stories only last for 25 seconds which means you must get straight to the point fairly quickly. You should show your brand or business within the first 3 seconds or less. You will want to use a vertical picture or video to stand out, and you can use text in your story promotions. Be creative as you want to capture your audiences’ attention in the most effective ways.
  • 2) Be original - Always use original content. You should avoid using emoji’s GIFs and stickers in your promoted stories as they are not viewed as original content which can hinder your ads being approved.
  • 3) Know your goal - What is your goal? Is it to promote a product or service? Try sharing insight and behind the scenes. Be creative. Keep your promotions at the center of your ad. 
  • 4) Show don't tell - Use your story ad to showcase the uses of your product or service. Add in tutorials or videos demonstrating how people use your product in fun and creative ways. This catches people’s attention and they will want to stop and look at your ad

Instagram Story Ad Specifications

In addition to seeing our Instagram Story Ad Examples to know how your ads could look, you also need to know to some more Instagram Story Ad details. When creating your Instagram Story Ad you will need to know the exact specifications for the design, text and technical aspects. We have collected and listed these specification for you below.

Design Recommendations

  • - Image File Type: JPG or PNG 
  • - Ratio: 9:16 
  • - Resolution: At least 1080 x 1080 pixels

Consider leaving roughly 14% (250 pixels) of the top and bottom of the image free from text, logos, or other key creative elements to avoid covering them with the profile icon or call-to-action.

Text Recommendations

  • - Primary Text: 125 characters

Technical Requirements

  • - Maximum File Size: 30MB
  • - Minimum Width: 500 pixels
  • - Aspect Ratio Tolerance: 1%

Summary

In conclusion, Instagram Story Ads help to promote engagement, show off your products, services, benefits and/or brand in a unique and different way and in only 15 seconds. In this post we have shown you 23 of some prime Instagram Story Ads Examples that we think will give you the inspiration that you need, listed tips and have given you the exact specification that you can use as inspiration for creating your next Instagram Story Ad.

If you've enjoyed this read and these Instagram Story Ad Examples and would like to see other ad examples, such as Facebook Ads Examples, then be sure to check out our Ads Library.

Have any feedback for us on our Instagram Story Ad Examples Post? Let us know in the comments below. And if you would like to get more post like this one and / or get more Ad inspiration, Join and Become a Member to gain access to our very own Ads Vault and more!

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