How to Detect and Capture Sticky Footer Ads Automatically
How to Detect and Capture Sticky Footer Ads Automatically
Sticky footer ads (also known as "Anchor Ads") are incredibly popular because they stay in the user's view as they scroll. For advertisers, they guarantee high viewability. For AdOps teams, they are notoriously difficult to capture cleanly in a screenshot.
The Problem with Static Screenshots
If you take a standard "Full Page" screenshot, the sticky footer usually only appears at the very bottom or, worse, it might "smear" across the entire image because the screenshot engine is scrolling while the ad stays fixed.
Why Sticky Footers Matter
- High CPM: Publishers charge a premium for these slots.
- Engagement: They are always "above the fold" regardless of where the user is on the page.
- Reporting Complexity: Proving they were actually "sticky" requires more than just a lucky snap.
How AdShot Pro Handles Fixed Elements
We developed specific logic to handle "Sticky" and "Fixed" CSS positions during our capture process.
1. Scrolling Simulation
Our engine doesn't just "jump" to the bottom. It simulates a natural scroll, allowing the sticky footer to remain anchored just as a human would experience it.
2. Viewport-Relative Snapping
We can trigger a capture that specifically targets the viewport at a certain scroll depth (e.g., 50% down the article). This perfectly captures the sticky footer in context with the content.
3. Layer Management
Sometimes, a sticky footer might overlap with a GDPR banner. AdShot Pro's logic dismisses the banner first, ensuring the footer ad has a clean "stage" for the photo.
The Result: Clean, High-Contrast Proof
Instead of a blurry or misplaced footer, you get a crisp, timestamped image that shows the ad perfectly anchored at the bottom of the screen. This is the level of visual proof that high-paying clients expect.
Summary
Don't let fixed-position ads break your verification workflow. Use a tool that understands the nuances of modern CSS and viewport behavior.
Want better sticky footer captures? Start your free trial today.
Written by the AdShot Pro Editorial Team
Our team consists of veteran AdOps professionals and software engineers dedicated to bringing transparency and automation to the digital advertising ecosystem. We've processed millions of placements and saved agencies thousands of hours.
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