8 Great Brand Video Examples: Telling Your Story Through Videography

When storytelling videography falls flat, it’s often because you haven’t connected with your audience in a way that sparks action.

 

Do you remember the last video that captured your attention and was memorable?

 

Was it memorable because of the flashy visuals or catchy music?

 

Or was it the narrative that tugged at your heartstrings and left you wanting more?

 

StoryBrand harnesses the magic of storytelling which taps into our emotions, fuels our imagination, and creates images that stick.

 

Using it to create brand videos can give you head start over your competition.

 

And in today’s marketing landscape, it’s the difference between getting ignored and sparking genuine connections.

 

But here’s the problem: Most brand videos shout into a void, instead of to their customers.

 

Their focus is on the features and effects, not emotions that are stirred within those who watch it. They talk at their audience, not with them.

 

And that’s why they fail to resonate and drive results.

 

Using StoryBrand In Your Brand Storytelling Video To Flip The Script

 

Traditional marketing often casts the brand as the shining knight, swooping in to save the damsel (the customer) from distress.

 

But the StoryBrand Framework flips this script on its head, putting your customer front and centre as the hero of their own journey.

 

• The Hero: Your ideal customer, facing a challenge (external, internal, or philosophical).

 

• The Guide: Your brand, offering the knowledge and tools to overcome their problem.

 

• The Plan: A clear roadmap to success, easing their doubts and fears.

 

• The Call to Action: An invitation to engage with your brand, benefiting them.

 

• The Stakes: What they risk by inaction, highlighting the urgency of your solution.

 

• The Success: A glimpse of their triumph, fueled by your product or service.

 

Think of it like this: Maybe your customer is a mum overwhelmed by mountains of laundry mountains, an entrepreneur struggling to get their business noticed, or an athlete stuck in a plateau.

 

You step in as a guide to help ease their frustrations: a door-to-door laundry service with pick-up, drop-off, and folding services, a marketing agency who can do it for them, a coach with the skills to reinvigorate and push the athlete.

 

[ According to Search Engine Watch, storytelling can increase conversions by an impressive 30%. ]

 

Storytelling videography in a brand video

 

Creating storytelling videography and promoting using brand videos can help a business connect with their audience on an emotional level.

 

This is because the human mind is attracted to stories, and when one plays out in front of the eyes, it’s easy to draw potential customers in.

 

Video content is becoming more and more favoured by consumers, which is why it is so important that you begin to understand the power of incorporating into your brand storytelling videos.

 

The reason why brand storytelling videos are so effective at helping you build your brand story, is because it blends visual storytelling with strategic messaging to cater to various consumer needs, such as seeking information and making purchase decisions.

 

Types of brand video:

 

1. Explainer Videos

 

Explainer videos stand out for their ability to break down complex products or services into digestible, engaging content.

 

Often animated, this concise storytelling videography is not just educational but also serves as persuasive advertisements by highlighting the key benefits and unique selling points of a brand’s offering.

 

They’re particularly effective in grabbing attention and simplifying the decision-making process for potential customers.

 

2. Social Media Videos

 

Crafted specifically for platforms like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and Twitter, social media videos are designed to capture and retain the attention of a scroll-happy audience.

 

These videos, ranging from stories to tailored posts, are pivotal in driving engagement, fostering shares, and enhancing brand visibility.

 

As part of a broader advertising campaign, they leverage platform-specific algorithms to maximise reach and encourage direct interaction with the brand.

 

3. Product Demos

 

Product demos provide a direct look into the functionality and benefits of a product, showcasing its features in action. These brand videos are invaluable advertising tools, offering potential customers a clear understanding of the product’s value and how it addresses their needs.

 

By demonstrating the product’s effectiveness, product demos help streamline the decision-making process, nudging viewers closer to a purchase.

 

4. Testimonial Videos

 

Featuring real-life customers, testimonial videos offer authentic insights into the experiences and outcomes of using a brand’s products or services.

 

Using testimonials in a brand’s storytelling video acts as a powerful form of advertisement, providing potential buyers with relatable social proof and building trust in the brand.

 

The persuasive power of testimonial videos lies in their ability to influence perceptions and decisions through genuine user stories.

 

5. How-To Videos or Tutorials

 

How-to videos or tutorials serve a dual purpose: they offer valuable information and guidance while subtly advertising a brand’s products or services.

 

By demonstrating the practical use and advantages of a product, these videos not only educate but also showcase the brand’s expertise and reliability.

 

As advertising tools, they reinforce the brand’s value proposition and authority, making it a go-to resource for consumers.

 

Video storytelling examples: Old Spice adverts

 

A great example of  storytelling in a brand‘s videos are the Old Spice ads. I’m sure you remember ‘Look at your man, look at me. Sadly he is not me. Look up, look back, I’m on a horse.’

 

Did you know that ad is 14 yrs old?

 

Old Spice ad: the man your man could smell like

 

It’s been a decade and a half and so many people still remember it. It tells the story of “it’s such a pity, ladies, that your man is not me.

 

But! He can smell like me by using this product. You can have the man of your dreams, and your man can smell like a real man”.

 

The videos are ridiculous and humorous, but they have harnessed the art of storytelling, and created long-impacting brand videos.

 

 

By playing into the women’s fantasies, they convince them that when they do the next shop to not buy flowery stuff for their man. Give them a body wash that will make them a Man’s Man.

 

Old Spice ad: car ride

 

And their newer ads now include a man and his wife. The most popular one is only a year old and has 85 million views.

 

It’s a simple video of them being chauffeured on a fancy night out, the husband smells his colon on his wife, who then confronts his wife, who is then covered by the driver.

 

The end? The driver simply states, ‘let’s talk a raise’. The message? Our product can make you money.

 

 

Old Spice knows their audience, and it’s not men. It’s the women in their lives. This is why their storytelling videography is so compelling and memorable.

 

They tell the women, you want a man’s man, you want to be pleased when you smell him – and you’ll love our product so much, you’ll want it for yourself.

 

So when you are making your brand video, ask yourself, “Who is my customer? Am I speaking to them?”

 

Using Storytelling Videography To Find Your Perfect Story: Props, Places, People

 

Storytelling isn’t just about stringing words together; it’s about crafting an experience that lingers in the memory long after the video fades.

 

Using the magic of storytelling videography, you can transform your brand narrative into an emotional journey that resonates deeply with your audience.

 

Strategic props, evocative locations, and real people give you the ability to weave a powerful story that ignites the imagination and connects on a visceral level.

 

1. Props

 

Your props are more than just decorations, they are silent storytellers waiting to speak!

 

Don’t underestimate the power of carefully chosen props to align with your brand’s core message, values, or even the villain your audience faces.

 

• A steaming mug radiating warmth, its billowing aroma whispering tales of comfort and joy, perfectly capturing the essence of your coffee brand.

 

• A well-worn teddy bear, its tattered fur silently narrating countless memories and love, embodying the enduring quality and cherished moments your children’s clothing line fosters.

 

Remember, physical items can evoke emotions and add depth to your narrative, making it resonate on a level beyond words.

 

Every detail matters, so choose your props wisely – let them become silent ambassadors, whispering untold stories that enrich your brand’s message and leave a lasting impression.

 

2. Locations

 

The backdrop isn’t just a pretty picture; it’s a world waiting to be explored. Choose environments that go beyond being visually appealing and actively mirror your brand’s personality and story.

 

• A bustling café buzzing with the infectious energy of your vibrant brand, inviting viewers to join the fun and experience the vibrancy firsthand.

 

• A serene mountain landscape, its calming presence perfectly reflecting the peace and tranquillity offered by your mindfulness app. Think visually, think emotionally, and create an atmosphere that transcends mere observation.

 

Draw viewers into your brand’s unique experience, making them feel understood and seen. Let the location become a character in your story, its unique atmosphere transporting viewers and forging a deeper connection with your brand.

 

3. People

 

The people in your videos should be more than actors creating scripted performances; consider using real people who interact with your brand.

 

Consider featuring:

 

• Customers.

 

• Employees.

 

• Everyday individuals authentically who interact with your brand.

 

Capture their genuine emotions, the challenges they faced, and the transformations your product or service enabled.

 

• Showcase a customer’s face lighting up with delight after sipping your coffee, highlighting not just the taste, but the joy and personal connection it brings.

 

• Let an employee tell their story of empowerment and growth made possible by your company, demonstrating your values and the positive impact you have on people’s lives.

 

• Feature heartwarming testimonials from families whose lives were improved by your clothing line, showcasing the real-world difference you make.

 

These authentic stories build trust, resonate deeply with viewers, and make your brand relatable, forging a true connection that goes beyond advertising.

 

Remember, people are the heart and soul of your story; let their genuine experiences shine through and watch your brand come alive, leaving a lasting emotional impact on your audience.

 

By strategically using these powerful elements you can craft a brand video that doesn’t just inform, but captivates, connects, and inspires.

 

Remember, these are your tools to tell your unique story, so get creative, experiment, and find the perfect blend that brings your brand to life in a way that ignites magic and leaves a lasting impression.

 

Mastering the Craft: Weaving Magic Through Technique and Authenticity

 

Crafting a captivating brand video involves more than just pointing a camera; it’s about mastering the art of storytelling. Here’s where we delve into the “how-to” of weaving magic through technique and authenticity:

 

1. Charting the Hero’s Journey:

 

Before the first frame rolls, embark on a narrative adventure.

 

Align your story with the StoryBrand Framework, a powerful tool that helps you weave your audience’s desires (the hero’s goals) with the obstacles they face (the villain) and the ultimate triumph achieved with your brand as the guide.

 

This structure ensures a relatable journey that resonates deeply with your viewers, leaving them feeling understood and inspired.

 

2. Speaking Through Emotion:

 

Humans are emotional creatures, so ignite their hearts! Use the power of sound design, captivating visuals, and expressive camerawork to evoke feelings that resonate with your message.

 

Imagine uplifting music soaring alongside an inspirational brand story, or close-up shots capturing the raw emotions of a customer transformed by your product. These elements create a deeper connection, leaving a lasting impression that goes beyond mere words.

 

3. Show, Don’t Tell:

 

Let your visuals be the storyteller! Instead of simply describing your brand’s value proposition, showcase it in action.

 

Feature customers using your product with infectious enthusiasm, weave in authentic testimonials that resonate with viewers, or offer behind-the-scenes glimpses that bring your brand to life.

 

Remember, visual storytelling resonates more deeply and connects with audiences on a visceral level.

 

4. Authenticity, The Cornerstone of Trust:

 

Forget scripted emotions and forced narratives; embrace genuineness! Focus on crafting stories that authentically reflect your brand’s values and resonate with your audience’s experiences.

 

Authenticity builds trust, making your brand story relatable and fostering a genuine connection with viewers.

 

5. Being Concise is Powerful:

 

Attention spans are precious, so make every second count! Craft a compelling narrative that delivers your message within a timeframe of 3 minutes or less.

 

Prioritise impact, focusing on key messaging and avoiding unnecessary fluff. Remember, concise and impactful storytelling can be immensely powerful, leaving a lasting impression without wearing out your audience’s welcome.

 

6. Shareability – Amplifying Your Reach:

 

Shareability is key! Ensure your video is easily shared across social media platforms. Include clear calls to action that motivate viewers to spread your message, add captions for silent viewing, and consider creating bite-sized teaser clips to generate interest.

 

Remember, the more shareable your video, the wider your reach and the greater the impact of your brand story.

 

7. Collaboration: Fueling Creativity:

 

Storytelling videography thrives on collaboration! Involve a diverse range of creative minds, from writers to sound designers, to enrich your narrative with different perspectives and expertise.

 

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques, props, and locations to find the perfect blend for your unique brand story. Remember, collaboration fosters innovation and opens doors to possibilities you might not have envisioned alone.

 

By mastering these techniques and embracing authenticity, you can transform your brand video from good to phenomenal.

 

Lengths of videos: what should you use?

 

The platform you wish to play your video will determine what type of video you should use.

 

Whether you’ve promoted your brand with storytelling videos before or not, at Results and Co, we always recommend trying many different types to see what works best for you. (This is what we call A/B testing, but more on that in another article.)

 

But first, let’s talk about the different factors and lengths that determine the brand video you create:

 

• Broadcast platform:

 

Different platforms have different time slot lengths. TV commercials commonly come in 15, 30, or 60-second formats, while online ads can be even shorter (like bumper ads at 6 seconds) or longer (like pre-roll ads at 30 seconds or more).

 

• Campaign goals:

 

Shorter ads are often used for brand awareness and reach, while longer ads can be better suited for storytelling and product demonstrations.

 

• Budget:

 

Longer ads cost more to produce and air, so budget constraints can influence the chosen length.

 

• Target audience:

 

Attention spans may vary depending on your audience, impacting how much information they can absorb in a given timeframe.

 

Most common ad lengths and their typical uses:

 

• 6-10 seconds: Bumper ads on social media, quick teasers to pique interest.

 

• 15-30 seconds: Social media video ads, TV commercials, brief product demos.

 

• 30-60 seconds: TV commercials, online video ads, more in-depth storytelling or product explanations.

 

• 60+ seconds: Online pre-roll ads, longer-form storytelling content ads.

 

Ultimately, the best ad length is the one that effectively delivers your message to your target audience within the platform’s constraints and your budget.

 

How to tell a story in a short ad

 

Most ads average at 15-60 seconds, this is not a lot of time to tell a story; but if you understand the StoryBrand framework and the art of storytelling, the impossible becomes possible.

 

Here’s how you can weave storytelling magic into a short video:

 

1. Hook Them in 5 Seconds:

 

You have 5 seconds to grab attention. You can do this with a captivating scene, question, or unexpected twist. Think of it as the trailer that draws viewers in before the main feature.

 

Old Spice: Naked man with a towel around his waist.

 

2. Introduce Your Hero:

 

Briefly showcase your ideal customer facing a relatable challenge or desire. This could be a humorous situation, a common pain point, or an aspiration they share with your target audience.

 

Old Spice uses ‘Your man isn’t a real man’.

 

3. The Spark of Change:

 

Enter your brand as the catalyst for change. Offer a solution, a tool, or a perspective shift that empowers your hero to overcome their challenge or achieve their desire.

 

4. Show, Don’t Tell:

 

Don’t just explain your product’s features, demonstrate its impact. Use visuals and humour (if appropriate) to showcase how it transforms your hero’s life for the better.

 

5. End with a Call to Action:

 

Leave viewers with a clear next step, whether it’s visiting your website, trying your product, or joining your community. Make it easy and enticing for them to act.

 

More examples of great short video storytelling

 

Cadbury Roses

 

Cadbury has used simplicity in this 16 second ad with a mother and her son.

 

The mother says one line ‘Me and your aunt used to always share a box of roses together, but now it’s difficult to find the time’ only to hear the doorbell ring with her sister holding a box of roses on the other side.

 

It is short and sweet, but holds the profound message of, ‘We bring back families, we were there back then, we are here now.’

 

 

Embrace Life: Wear a Seatbelt

 

“Your family wants you to come home alive. Wear a seatbelt.”

 

This is the simple, gut-punching message this short, silent video portrays. This minute and a half UK driving ad uses such intense and clever imagery that I honestly can’t watch it without getting emotional.

 

The actors perfectly portray the way life can be happy one minute, suddenly something happens, and a conscious choice can mean the difference between devastation and life.

 

The daughter wraps her arms around her father’s waist to say ‘don’t go’, while his wife’s arms say, ‘I’ve got you.’ The cleverly placed bowl of glitter adds to the effect of shattering car and windows, but we see the man safe in his family’s arms.

 

 

Gerber Gear: Unstoppable

 

Gerber gear decided to speak to the adventurer in its viewers. They show everyday people using their gear through the ages, and tempts the viewer to push past their fear, overcome adversity, and tempt adventure.

 

The video is almost 2 minutes long, but the cleverly used media and sound effects, simple words, the tense disasters, and simple monologue catches the viewer’s attention perfectly saying, ‘We get you through the challenges you face, and the unexpected situations.’

 

 

Mercedes-Benz: Chicken

 

Mercedes-Benz, while being a luxury car brand, has decided to use humour and the ridiculousness of chickens to portray the message of their ‘Magic Body Control’ in their cars.

 

They have cleverly used the fact that a chicken’s head can stay in the exact same position as they choreograph their body to song.

 

 

Nike – Chinese New Year: The Great Chase

 

In China and many Asian countries, the lunar new year is when the older generation gives money in a little red envelope to the younger generation symbolising good wishes and luck for the new year ahead. And when the children are grown, it is customary to return the favour.

 

But it is also customary to politely refuse the envelope a couple times, and then accept it upon their insistence. This is to show that you’re not greedy for their money.

 

Nike has taken it a step further and played upon this custom by making it an intense game of tag between a child and her auntie, with higher stakes as they get older. Then when the child is old enough to return the favour, it’s game on.

 

 

Storytelling is a powerful tool every brand should harness. It can transform the mundane into something memorable, and make the everyday something special.

 

By letting your customer have the limelight and become the hero of their story and positioning yourself as the guide, you take them on a journey beyond the transaction.

 

Let your brand weave the message by saying: We understand. We empathise with you and are here to guide you to something better.

 

Schedule a call with us today to learn how StoryBrand can help you connect with your customers.