The biggest breakthroughs usually come with the biggest barriers.
Think of the tools we now consider essential—motion graphics, mobile optimization, AI-assisted design. Once upon a time, these were considered “too complex” or “too niche.” They were dismissed—until the brands that embraced them started winning.
Now, augmented reality (AR) stands on that same edge.
While AI was a natural leap in our data-saturated world, AR still feels like science fiction to many marketers. But here’s the thing: brands that adopt AR in their creative strategy are achieving deeper engagement and higher retention than those sticking to business-as-usual.
Why Brands Struggle to Adopt AR
Many marketing teams still confuse AR with VR, picturing goggles, games, and expensive tech stacks. Even those who know the difference often ask the same question:
“Where do we even start?”
According to Eliott Wahba, CEO of DolFinContent,
“Most hesitation with AR has nothing to do with budget or tools—it’s mindset. The brands that win are the ones that are curious enough to test, fail, and keep learning.”
How to Start Using AR in Your Marketing (Without Getting Overwhelmed)
Whether you’re in B2B, DTC, SaaS, or retail—AR has a place in your creative stack.
Here’s a roadmap you can follow, inspired by our own creative-tech team at DolFinContent.
1. Start With the Right People
Before thinking about tech, look at your team.
You don’t need an in-house AR specialist to get started. You just need a few open-minded creatives who are excited to explore.
Find designers or marketers who think differently. People who ask “what if?” more than “what’s safe?” These are the ones who will turn AR experimentation into real brand assets.
Action item:
Identify one or two team members who love trying new creative tools. Pair them with a creative strategist who can guide the process, or bring in outside experts who’ve done it before.
2. Test on Small Projects
No need to launch your big product with a full AR experience.
Instead, start in a low-risk sandbox:
- Enhance your onboarding flow with an AR animation
- Add a scannable AR element to your welcome kits
- Create an interactive Instagram story filter tied to your brand
- Test a virtual try-on tool for internal use
The goal isn’t perfection. It’s traction.
Action item:
List 3 low-stakes projects where an AR touchpoint could add surprise, delight, or clarity. Pick one to prototype.
3. Make Social Media Your AR Launchpad
Social is already AR-ready.
From Instagram filters to TikTok effects, these platforms encourage interaction—and AR is built to engage.
The best part? You’re not asking your audience to install anything new. Just offer something playful, interactive, and brand-aligned.
DolFinContent helped a consumer app generate 3x more engagement on Instagram using a branded face filter than their best-performing video post.
Action item:
Look at how other brands in your space are using social-based AR. Pick one use case and brainstorm your own branded version.
4. Find Your Internal Champions
AR can get stuck in leadership purgatory—unless someone advocates for it.
You don’t need a full executive team on board at first. You just need one ally.
Find someone open to emerging tech and show them what AR can unlock.
Share micro-wins. Show them early engagement numbers. Bring them into the process.
They’ll bring others with them.
Action item:
Talk to key stakeholders. Who’s the most open to innovation? Start there. Position AR not as a gimmick, but as a strategic tool for engagement and learning.
Go Deeper With Augmented Reality
Even a modest AR rollout can change how your audience interacts with your brand.
Whether you're a marketing manager, brand strategist, or creative lead, AR lets you:
- Stand out in noisy feeds
- Create memorable interactions
- Turn passive viewers into active participants
Eliott Wahba explains it like this:
“You don’t need a perfect 3D model or cinematic experience. Even a rough, clever use of AR can become your highest-performing creative. It’s about connection, not perfection.”
Let DolFinContent Help You Get Started
Whether you want to start small or go big from day one, our AR creative pros are here to help. We specialize in turning smart ideas into scalable, engaging brand experiences—no headset required.
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