Why Reels need a separate preview
A Reels creative is not just a Story creative with a different label. The right-side action rail, bottom caption area and audio context can change where the eye lands and whether copy remains legible.
What to check before upload
The preview should confirm that the creative still works with interface pressure on three sides: top, bottom and right.
- Keep hooks and product value away from the lower caption stack.
- Avoid placing important text behind the right-side action rail.
- Use captions that support the video instead of repeating every word.
- Make sure the CTA feels natural with the visual promise.
Reels creative QA
Treat Reels QA as a final creative gate. If the first frame, offer and CTA all survive the preview, the ad is much less likely to need emergency edits after upload.
Creative approval checklist
Frequently asked questions
What aspect ratio should Instagram Reels ads use?
Reels ads are commonly prepared as 9:16 vertical creative, often exported at 1080 by 1920 pixels.
Why is the bottom of a Reels ad risky?
The lower area often contains caption, audio and CTA elements, so important creative text can become crowded or covered.
Can AdsOverlay export Reels previews?
Yes. The workspace includes PNG export for preview frames that can be shared during review.