Design for a fast decision
A Story ad has only a few seconds to explain the offer. The preview should answer one question quickly: can someone understand the brand, benefit and next step without pausing?
Common Story ad issues
Most Story ad mistakes come from treating the export as a clean canvas instead of a placement with interface elements.
- Text is placed too close to the top profile area.
- CTA or offer copy sits too low in the frame.
- The asset was built for feed and cropped into vertical afterward.
- Brand name and destination do not match the promise in the creative.
Recommended Story workflow
Build the creative at 9:16, add the real caption and CTA, then use a preview to check safe zones and readability on mobile before upload.
Approval checklist
- Use a full 9:16 layout when possible.
- Keep the first line of text short and specific.
- Do not rely on tiny lower-third copy.
- Check contrast behind every text layer.
- Preview with the selected CTA visible.
Frequently asked questions
What size should Instagram Story ads be?
A common Story ad export is 1080 by 1920 pixels in a 9:16 aspect ratio.
Can I reuse feed creative for Stories?
You can, but it often needs a separate vertical layout. A preview helps catch awkward crops and covered text.
Does AdsOverlay show the actual Instagram app?
No. It provides an independent approximation for creative review and safe-zone checking.