Should I Film a Commercial for My Business?

Many Austin business owners ask themselves if a commercial video is worth the investment. The truth is, in a city with such a strong creative culture, video can make all the difference.

Think about how you interact with content online. Most people scroll quickly, and photos don’t always hold attention. A short, polished commercial — 60 to 90 seconds — can tell your story in a way that sticks. You’ll see these kinds of ads from boutiques along South Congress to new restaurants opening in Mueller.

For some businesses, a longer brand story makes sense. A 2–4 minute video gives you room to show who you are, what you stand for, and why your customers should trust you. Startups near UT Austin often use these videos not only to attract customers, but also to recruit employees and appeal to investors.

The reach goes far beyond TV. Commercials today live on Instagram, YouTube, and even at events like SXSW. A well-placed video puts your brand in front of people across the city, whether they’re buying condos downtown or looking for services out in Pflugerville.

If you’re asking whether to film a commercial for your business, the better question might be: how much could you gain by not having one?