The image or images you choose to use for your ad can make or break your campaign. Today we’re offering up our top 11 tips on creating the perfect Facebook ad images!

Urgency 

In general, most people hate to miss out, it’s instinctive to avoid loss and this helps us to better take advantage of the opportunities surrounding us. When advertising, it can be useful to add a sense of urgency by setting a deadline on your offer and can often help those that aren’t fully decided on your product. Even something as simple as including the words “Limited time offer“ can give someone that final push to decide to purchase your product or service. Also with your image being the first thing that most customers will typically see, it should portray this message quickly and clearly. 

Narrowing your audience through targeting

When referring to the images of a Facebook ad, this may seem a little out of place. But that’s where you could be wrong! Defining a clear target audience is definitely one of the first things that you should be doing when starting your advertising campaign, but you should also tailor your imagery to the audience. One size fits all is not something that works in Facebook advertising. Custom targets call for custom ad images. 

Read our blog regarding using Facebook ad exclusions here.

Don’t use excessive text on your Facebook ad image

Facebook's previous recommended use for text overlay on an image was anything less than 20%. More recently they say that you should use little to no text overlays at all. You are still allowed to use them but it can not be more than 20% of the overall image. Adding text to your image will lower the amount of reach that your ad will achieve. (How many people Facebook will show your ad too). 

Whilst most advertisers tend not to use text overlay on their ad to reach their audience, many people still do as they find it can be more effective to include at least a short message. We recommend using a small amount of text and utilising facebook's own tool to ensure that your image will be approved. 

Simply upload your image to the link above and Facebook will deem it a level of approval based on its guidelines.  

Ensure that your message is the main focus of the image

There should be an especially important section of your image that gets your message across straight away. This links back to our 1st paragraph about urgency. Your message should be the 1st thing that your audience should see. Try to ask yourself, “ just from the image, can I tell what this ad is for?”.

Using high-resolution images

I can not tell you how many times I have seen an advert for something using a low-quality image and it instantly has put me off. It’s something that seems so simple but is definitely something where people can be tripped up. Be sure that you have good quality images for your ad, and if you don’t you could always check out Unsplash on the link below:

https://unsplash.com

This is a service that offers you free, high-resolution stock images. 

Simplicity is best

Try to think about how fast people scroll through their feed and just how much content they will see in that time. Now think about just how long you have to get your message across to someone. The more simple that your image can be, the faster you can get your message across. Try not to miss out on opportunities by causing your audience to think too hard about what your ad is actually about. Reiterating really but be sure that your ad and your message are easily understandable and straight to the point. That goes for those text overlays too.

Keeping graphics and content consistent 

Not keeping your ads consistent is an issue that we see on a regular basis. You would be surprised how many images have nothing to do with their copy and no regular flow to their page. You should be aiming to create a cohesive ad that makes your audience want to take action. Try to make sure that there isn’t any form of disconnect between what your image is portraying and what they’re reading in the text. 

Limiting your calls to action

This may sound a little confusing but the task is not that daunting. A call to action is mandatory, but using more than one in an ad can often be confusing. As mentioned above simplicity is key! Try to grab your audience's attention quickly and be sure that they know where to go for your product, giving people an option can sometimes be confusing. 

What do people love most? FREE

The idea of getting something for nothing is something that many people love. The word “FREE” instantly catches our eye. So be sure to try and use it in your ad imagery if possible. Don’t worry, you don’t have to give your product or service away for nothing, something simple like a free consultation or free shipping is often enough to dramatically improve the engagement rate on your ads.  

The psychology of colour

Top creatives have understood the physiological stimulus that can be created when looking at the right colour. Different colours can make us feel different feelings when we see them and you're also able to employ this when targeting a different demographic. Using the colours that people prefer to see means that you can reach that audience more deeply. While this plan isn’t foolproof, it’s definitely something to bear in mind when creating your Facebook ad. 

You can read more about it on our blog here.

Graphics of a specific location

This is something that should generally be used by a smaller local business. If someone sees an image of somewhere that they were familiar with on a Facebook ad, they are far more likely to connect with them. Help people to notice your business by showcasing your local area.

This can also be useful when trying to display an ad for a travel destination. For example, a bed and breakfast by the seafront could show some of the attractions that are in the local area to give people a good idea of what they can be doing when they visit.

If you’re looking for help with your Facebook marketing contact us online or by calling 01522 275 021 today!