For years, people shot video in a horizontal format. That approach to videography aligned with movie screens, TV screens and computer monitors. Today, however, consumers also are watching video on their smartphones through social media channels. That usually means they’re watching vertical video.
The rise of short, engaging vertical videos doesn’t mean horizontal videos are obsolete, though. It means brands have more tools at their disposal to strategically engage their target audience.
A vertical video creates a personable experience. Those videos foster a sense of community and interaction with all the ways people can engage with content – liking, commenting and sharing with others. Meanwhile, horizontal videos are best suited for larger screens where viewers are consuming longer-form content like storytelling and promotional brand videos.
One format doesn’t take precedent over another. They both serve different purposes and can take your content to the next level when used correctly.
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When to use vertical video
Vertical videos (9:16 ratio) are intended for use on mobile devices – specifically cell phones and tablets. When creating a video for a mobile device, shooting it vertically ensures the entire screen is filled, capturing the viewer’s full attention.
Opt for a vertical video when creating content for social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram and Facebook. Social media content is short and casual, so shooting vertically helps establish relatability with the viewer.
Shoot vertically for personal messaging, behind-the-scenes and informal storytelling. Creating authentic, relatable content for vertical platforms creates a sense of trust with viewers. This helps establsih a casual connection.
Here’s a quick guide for what kind of videos should be vertical:
- Social media content (TikTok, Instagram and Facebook Reels, YouTube Shorts)
- Behind-the-scenes content
- Informal storytelling
READ MORE: Watch this: Social media video trends
When to use horizontal video
Horizontal videos (16:9 ratio) are best suited for long form, professional storytelling on wide-frame screens like computers and TVs. They offer more frame space for fine details, graphics and high-level production.
Shooting a horizontal video allows for more visuals like multiple subjects, text and product overlays. High-quality horizontal videos increase brand credibility and create lasting impressions with viewers since they have longer run times.
Horizontal videos can be repurposed for multiple platforms, from websites, email and TV commercials to video presentations, organic social media and more.
Examples of when to use horizontal videos include:
- Long-form YouTube videos
- Websites and landing pages
- TV and streaming ads
- Videos for presentations and events
READ MORE: Social media video: Three types of trending clips
Priority Marketing’s video services
Research shows that professional video services have a strong return on investment. Video can reach a multitude of audiences, and when paired with the right distribution platform, it can reach ultra-specific target demographics.
When combined with authenticity, compelling storytelling, strong visuals and a powerful voice, horizontal and vertical video can impact an audience and encourage them to engage with the desired call to action.
Priority Marketing’s in-house video production team provides concepting, scriptwriting, filming, directing, editing and production, animation, motion graphics and more for clients across a broad spectrum of industries, as well as nonprofit organizations.
READ MORE: Video Production Services
Connect with Priority Marketing
Want a professional videographer to film your next social media reel, TV commercial or campaign video? Please give us a call today at 239-267-2638 or send an email to LetsTalk@PriorityMarketing.com.
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