5 Branded Cinemagraphs on Instagram That Are Sure to Mesmerize

Instagram marketers are crazy for cinemagraphs, those posts that mix still images with video. Over the last few months, brands have been testing the captivating format on Instagram to kick social creative up a notch. Cinemagraphs have been used for years as GIFs on Tumblr and Reddit, but Instagram's 15-second cap on video and recent update with endless loops makes it an easy call for brands to try the format. And with Instagram opening up its ad business Tuesday with targeting and shoppable links, users are likely to see more videos in their social feeds over the next few months. Check out how five brands are testing out cinemagraphs in intriguing ways: Click play on the embeds to see the images in action. 1. Toyota Here's our vision of @instagram's #WHPHoldstill. #KeepItWild with your Weekend Hashtag Project. #4Runner. A video posted by toyotausa (@toyotausa) on May 31, 2015 at 12:04pm PDT The automaker got in on Instagram's Weekend Hashtag Project, a weekly series of tasks that challenges photographers to take interesting themed pictures. Last week, the project asked photographers to shoot moving video with a still camera. Toyota's take placed an SUV in the woods next to a mountain bike rider. 2. Budweiser For focusing on friends, not your phone. #ThisBudsForYou A video posted by Budweiser (@budweiser) on Apr 17, 2015 at 2:08pm PDT For the perfect pour, pour a Budweiser. #ThisBudsForYou A video posted by Budweiser (@budweiser) on May 25, 2015 at 6:19pm PDT Bud showed off subtle beer suds—and a moving leg—to make its photos a bit more interesting. 3. Netflix In the real outback, there are no blooming onions. #Tracks is #NowOnNetflix A video posted by Netflix US (@netflix) on May 3, 2015 at 5:52pm PDT The video-streaming service poked fun at Outback Steakhouse's famous fried appetizer while also promoting the film Tracks. The effect is a hazy scene that makes it look like it's a scorchingly hot day in Australia. 4. Gilt Groupe From poolside to pool float, pop out & stand out with handbags & more from @katespadeny. Tap the link in bio to shop. #GiltxKSNY A video posted by Get the Gilt look (@gilt) on May 28, 2015 at 11:02am PDT The e-tailer's creative post puts ripples in the pool and almost makes it look like the woman's legs are moving. But, of course, it's just an optical illusion. 5. A+E Networks This killer cast survived yet another night at the #BatesMotel. #AENUpfront #FreddieHighmore #VeraFarmiga #NestorCarbonell @maxthieriot A video posted by Bates Motel on A&E (@insidebates) on May 1, 2015 at 2:42pm PDT The TV network uploaded this image during its recent upfront presentation with the cast of Bates Motel. To play off of the show's eerie vibe, the street light, sky and text at the bottom flicker as users thumb past it.

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5 Branded Cinemagraphs on Instagram That Are Sure to Mesmerize

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Lauren Johnson

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Lauren Johnson