How-To Guide · Ad Creative Generation

How to Make a Transformation Google Ad (Before-and-After Carousel)

Learn how to build transformation (before-and-after) ads in Google Ads using Demand Gen carousel format. Includes image specs, step-by-step setup, and creative tips.

TL;DR Use Google Ads carousel format inside a Demand Gen campaign to run transformation (before-and-after) ads. Upload images in order, match aspect ratios across cards, and aim for "Excellent" Ad Strength. Coinis Before & After workflow generates matched creative pairs automatically.

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Originally published .

Key Takeaways
  • Google Demand Gen carousel ads are the best format for transformation (before-and-after) ads.
  • Upload before and after images in order — Google displays carousel cards exactly as uploaded.
  • All cards in one carousel must share the same aspect ratio: horizontal, square, or vertical.
  • Target 'Excellent' Ad Strength by uploading at least 3 images per aspect ratio.
  • Images must be JPG or PNG, under 5 MB, with recommended sizes of 1200×628 (horizontal) or 1200×1200 (square).
  • Coinis Before & After workflow generates matched creative pairs from a product URL automatically.

What Are Transformation Google Ads?

Transformation ads show a before state and an after state. The viewer fills in the story. That shortcut reduces skepticism and drives clicks.

Definition and use cases

These ads work for skincare, fitness, home improvement, software, and any product with visible results. One image shows the problem. The next shows the proof.

Why before-and-after ads convert

The format does the cognitive work for the viewer. No imagination required. They see the result. That shortens the decision.

Per Google's Ads Help Center, creative is responsible for 49% of total sales impact in advertising. Transformation ads put that creative weight to work.

Carousel is the strongest format for transformation storytelling. You control the image order. Google displays carousel cards exactly as uploaded.

Carousel ads (primary format)

Demand Gen campaigns run carousels across YouTube, Gmail, Discover, and the Google Display Network. Per Google's Demand Gen documentation, each carousel supports 2 to 10 images. Upload your "before" card first and your "after" card second.

Single image ads with text overlay

A single image with "Before" and "After" text baked into the creative works for Display retargeting. It trades sequence for simplicity. Good for audiences already familiar with your brand.

Video transformation sequences

Short video ads on YouTube and Discover can show the transformation in motion. Hook with the problem in the first 5 seconds. Show the result before the skip button appears.

Step 1. Prepare your before/after image pair or sequence

Shoot or source your images. Keep the lighting, framing, and subject position consistent across both. Inconsistent framing looks accidental and hurts credibility.

Step 2. Size and format your images for Google Ads specs

All cards in one carousel must share the same aspect ratio. Use horizontal (1.91:1), square (1:1), or vertical (4:5). See the spec table below for exact dimensions.

Step 3. Create carousel card structure in Google Ads

In Google Ads, select Demand Gen as your campaign type. Create a new ad and choose "Carousel." Upload your before image first, then your after image. Add intermediate steps as extra cards if your transformation has stages.

Step 4. Add compelling headlines and descriptions

Lead with the result, not the product name. "Skin cleared in 14 days" converts better than "Our acne formula." Keep headlines specific and outcome-focused.

Step 5. Set your CTA and landing page

Point your URL to a page that reinforces the transformation. A results gallery or a before-and-after product page works best. Match the ad promise to the landing page.

Step 6. Review Ad Strength and publish

Google's Ad Strength score reflects asset diversity. Aim for "Excellent." Upload at least 3 images per aspect ratio across your Demand Gen ad group, then publish.

Image Specifications for Transformation Ads

Recommended sizes by aspect ratio

Per Google's Demand Gen creative asset specifications:

| Aspect ratio | Recommended size | Minimum size |

|---|---|---|

| Horizontal 1.91:1 | 1200 × 628 px | 600 × 314 px |

| Square 1:1 | 1200 × 1200 px | 300 × 300 px |

| Vertical 4:5 | 960 × 1200 px | 480 × 600 px |

File format and size limits

JPG or PNG only. Maximum 5 MB per image. Files over that limit will be rejected at upload.

Multi-image strategy for best reach

Google recommends at least 3 images per aspect ratio. More assets give Google's AI more options to match placements. That means broader reach at lower cost.

Best Practices for High-Converting Transformation Ads

Keep framing consistent between before and after

Same angle. Same lighting. Same subject position. Consistent shots look intentional. Inconsistent shots look accidental.

Use multiple aspect ratios for maximum coverage

Provide all three aspect ratios. Google picks the right ratio per placement automatically. More formats covered equals more impressions.

Optimize headlines to highlight the transformation

Be specific. "Lost 12 lbs in 30 days" beats "Weight loss supplement." Numbers and time frames build instant credibility.

Test and iterate based on Ad Strength feedback

Ad Strength is a creative diversity signal, not a direct performance guarantee. But ads rated "Excellent" reach more placements. Use it as a practical asset checklist.

Create Transformation Ads Faster with Coinis

Building matched before-and-after creatives manually takes time. Coinis Before & After workflow cuts that time down sharply.

Before & After workflow overview

Upload a before image. Describe the transformation. Coinis generates the after creative using premium AI models, sized and formatted to match.

Automated generation from product or brand context

Brand Profile learns your colors, voice, and product category. Every creative stays on-brand from the first generation. No manual brief required after initial setup.

Publish directly to Coinis Creative Library

Every asset lands in your Creative Library. Download them for Google Ads upload. Publish the same creatives directly to Facebook or Instagram from one place.

Coinis publishes directly to Meta today. Google Ads direct publishing is on the roadmap. Use Coinis to generate and refine the creative, then upload to Google Ads manually.

Or let Coinis do it.

From a product URL to a live Meta campaign. AI-generated creatives. On-brand copy. Direct publish to Facebook and Instagram. Real performance reporting. All in one platform.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Google Ads campaign type is best for transformation ads?

Demand Gen campaigns are the best fit. They support carousel ads across YouTube, Gmail, Discover, and the Google Display Network, and let you control the order images display, which is key for before-and-after storytelling.

How many images can a Google Ads transformation carousel contain?

Google Ads carousel ads support 2 to 10 images per carousel. For a simple before-and-after, two cards is enough. Add extra cards for multi-step transformations.

Do all cards in a Google Ads carousel need the same aspect ratio?

Yes. Google requires a consistent aspect ratio across all cards within one carousel ad. Choose horizontal (1.91:1), square (1:1), or vertical (4:5) and use the same ratio for every card.

What file formats and sizes does Google Ads accept for carousel images?

JPG and PNG are the accepted formats. Each image must be under 5 MB. Recommended sizes are 1200 × 628 px for horizontal, 1200 × 1200 px for square, and 960 × 1200 px for vertical.

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