How to Create TV Commercials and Online Ads That Actually Work: No-Fluff Video Production Tips
- Steven Aprill
- Jun 19
- 4 min read
If there's one thing we know around here, it's how to tell a good story. Trust me… if you’ve ever met DJ & Mark (Co-Owners), you know that they have a million of them and they’re usually thoroughly entertaining! But beyond telling a good story, our team also knows how to do it with authenticity, heart, and perhaps a cup of coffee in hand. At Shift Visuals, we specialize in turning real-world brands into real-good stories. Whether it's a polished TV commercial for prime time or a scroll-stopping online ad, our full-service video production team is here to help you create content that actually connects.
Here are our top tips (Midwest-tested and approved) for creating engaging TV commercials and online ads that make your audience pause, watch, and act.
1. Start with a Story, Not a Script
Midwesterners can spot fluff a mile away (and we like it that way). That’s why the best branded video production starts with a genuine story. Whether you're a startup in Appleton or a legacy brand in Milwaukee, your commercial should say something and fast.
Instead of just listing your product's features, focus on what your audience actually cares about: how it makes their life better. Whether it’s a 30-second TV spot or a five-second pre-roll ad, hook ‘em early with relatable storytelling, not jargon.
2. Know Your Audience and Talk to Them Like You Know Them
Your tone should match your people. Are you targeting B2B clients in the industrial sector? Or young consumers scrolling Instagram? Different platforms and audiences call for different styles, and Shift Visuals knows how to pivot with personality.
TV commercial production still has its place (think high-visibility, trust-building), but online ads offer room for experimentation, humor, trends, and quick-hit visuals. That’s where our experience as a video content company really shines.
3. Plan for Both Platforms From the Start
A big mistake we see? Brands trying to repurpose a TV commercial for social media (or vice versa) without considering the medium. Each platform has its own strengths and quirks.
TV: You’ve got a captive audience. High production value and strong branding go a long way.
Social Media: You’ve got literal seconds… if that. Bold visuals, subtitles, vertical framing, and punchy openers are key.
That’s why our team works closely with you to plan campaigns that work across platforms, from traditional TV commercial production to social media video content. We're not just a commercial video production company; we're your creative partner in strategy and execution.
4. Invest in Quality Visuals (Because People Notice)
Whether it’s a national campaign or a regional ad, quality does matter. Poorly lit footage and tinny audio can make your brand feel, well, cheap. But that doesn’t mean you need a Hollywood budget.
Our crew brings cinematic video production quality to every shoot, whether it’s in a boardroom (although we prefer to shoot ANYWHERE else), a barn, or on a drone above Lake Michigan We’re proud to offer professional videography services, motion graphics and animation, and even aerial drone videography for that wow factor. And if your campaign needs professional photography, corporate headshots, or product photography to match, our photo studio’s got you covered. Headshots, portraits, drone shots, you name it.
5. Call Your Viewers to Action, Then Make It Easy
You’ve crafted the perfect message. Don’t let it fall flat. Whether you want them to visit a website, buy a product, or book a service, your ad should end with a clear, compelling call to action (CTA).
This is one of the biggest differences between a pretty ad and a performing ad. Shift Visuals is a video marketing agency that helps you not only create the ad, but create one that actually drives results.
6. Partner With a Team Who Gets It
Let’s be honest: you can hire a video production company from anywhere. But if you want a team that shows up early, rolls with the punches, and treats your brand like their own, we’d like to throw our hat in the ring.
We’ve worked with companies across Wisconsin, from corporate video services in Green Bay to commercial videography in the Twin Cities. Our approach is Midwest-practical, people-first, and creatively bold.
Whether you need a full campaign from scratch or just want to explore how much a corporate video costs (hint: we keep it fair and transparent), Shift Visuals is here to help.
Ready to Roll? Let’s Make Something Great Together.
From concept to cut, we’re your local videography company with a big vision and an even bigger work ethic. Reach out today to chat about your next TV commercial or online ad.
📍Based in Northeast Wisconsin
🎥 Offering video production services in Green Bay, Appleton, Milwaukee & beyond
📸 Also offering professional headshots, product photography, and drone services
👉 Let’s Get Rolling – Contact Shift Visuals Today
