Vertical versus horizontal video for local ads should be chosen by placement rather than by personal preference: vertical usually fits mobile feeds, Stories, Reels, and Shorts, while horizontal fits YouTube viewing, connected-TV inventory, websites, and some display placements.

Captions for silent local video viewers should communicate the offer, location context, and next action without requiring speech or audio cues. Use short synchronized phrases, high-contrast text, readable type, and placement that avoids platform controls, faces, products, and address details.

Local video hooks for the first three seconds work best when they immediately identify a nearby customer’s situation, show recognizable visual context, and create a reason to keep watching. Open with the problem, result, or location rather than a logo animation or business introduction.