Want buyers to notice your car on Carbee. Here's how to create a video ad that works - whether you're selling a Corolla or a Porsche.
Want your car to stand out on Carbee? Here's how to create a video ad that gets attention (and serious buyers). No Oscar, Golden Globe, or film and television degree required - just your phone and our proven approach to showing your car at its best.
Before You Hit Record
First impressions matter. Give your car a proper clean - and yes, that includes those wheels you've been neglecting. Find a spot with good lighting, a clear background, and minimal distractions. You'll want to shoot in portrait mode (vertical), and if you can time it for 'golden hour' (just after sunrise or before sunset), your car will look even better.
Nailing the Length: Why Shorter Works Better
While Carbee lets you go up to 90 seconds, 60-second videos tend to get more engagement. Think about it - you're competing with TikTok and Reels for attention spans. Every extra second needs to earn its place.
That said, some cars might need that extra time. If you're selling a modified performance car or a luxury vehicle with lots of features, those additional 30 seconds could be valuable. Just make sure you're using them to show important stuff, not just padding.
Structure Your Story
The Hook (First 10-15%)
Grab attention immediately with your car's standout feature. Whether it's immaculate condition, killer modifications, or impressive history, lead with what makes your car special. Remember: most viewers decide in the first few seconds whether to keep watching.
The Walk Around (About 30%)
This is your showroom moment. Start with an establishing shot showing the whole car, then move smoothly around it. Focus on key angles that show your car's condition and features. For standard cars, keep it moving. For premium or modified vehicles, take time to highlight special details.
Interior Features (About 30%)
Take viewers inside, but keep it flowing. Start with a wide shot of the cabin, then focus on what buyers care about: seat condition, tech features, space, and that all-important odometer. If you've got special features, show them working. Don't just talk about them.
A big finish (Final 15-20%)
End strong with what helps sell the car. This might be the engine bay, service history, or special features. Choose this based on your car - a preserved classic might focus on documentation, while a performance car might showcase engine modifications.
Making It Look Professional
Lighting Makes or Breaks
Natural light is your friend, but timing matters. Early morning or late afternoon gives you that perfect glow. If you're shooting midday, find some open shade to avoid harsh shadows. For darker colored cars, bright but overcast days can actually work better.
Steady as you go
Nobody wants motion sickness from your video. Use both hands, move slower than feels natural. Try bracing against your body or use a basic gimbal. You can buy them for around $100.
Sound Advice
Good audio matters more than you think. Film in a quiet spot if you can. Engine sounds are good – traffic or wind noise isn't. If there's too much background noise, consider recording your commentary separately. Keep it natural but informative.
For Standard Cars
- Focus on condition, reliability, and practicality:
- Clean exterior
- Interior condition
- Boot/cargo space
- Key features working
- Service documentation
For Premium/Luxury Vehicles
- Emphasize features and quality:
- Special trim details
- Tech features in action
- Premium audio
- Comfort features
- Service history
For Performance/Modified Cars
- Showcase what makes it special:
- Modifications in detail
- Engine bay
- Performance features
- Aftermarket upgrades
- Documentation of work
Before You Post
However you choose to edit your ad, take a few minutes for a final review of your video before it goes live. Watch it through completely, making sure everything plays smoothly without any jerky movements or cuts.
Check that your audio comes through clearly - background noise or muffled commentary can kill an otherwise great video. Verify you've shown all the key features you mentioned in your description, and ensure your number plates are visible for authenticity.
Give it one last scan for anything important you might have missed.
Making Your Carbee video Work Harder
The most effective car videos keep commentary focused and relevant - think of it as a conversation with a potential buyer, not a documentary.
Wherever possible, demonstrate features rather than just talking about them. Honesty about your car's condition builds trust, so don't shy away from showing small imperfections. Make sure to mention any recent work or upgrades that add value. Remember, you're not just showing off your car - you're making it easy for the right buyer to take the next step.
Bottom Line
The best Carbee videos feel authentic, not overproduced. Whether you're selling a daily driver or a dream car, focus on showing what real buyers want to see. Keep it flowing, keep it honest, and keep it interesting.
Remember: You're not making a Hollywood blockbuster - you're helping someone imagine themselves owning your car. Show them why they should.
