Aspect ratio is the proportional relationship between your video's width and height. Using the correct ratio ensures your content looks great on every platform without awkward cropping or black bars.
The Main Aspect Ratios
- 9:16 (Vertical/Portrait): 1080x1920 — TikTok, Instagram Reels, Instagram Stories, YouTube Shorts
- 1:1 (Square): 1080x1080 — Instagram Feed, Facebook Feed
- 16:9 (Horizontal/Landscape): 1920x1080 — YouTube, Facebook Video
- 4:5 (Portrait): 1080x1350 — Instagram Feed (takes up the most screen space)
Platform-by-Platform Recommendations
TikTok
Always use 9:16 vertical. This is non-negotiable — horizontal videos look small and unprofessional on TikTok.
Reels: 9:16. Stories: 9:16. Feed posts: 4:5 for maximum real estate, or 1:1 for a clean look.
YouTube
Standard videos: 16:9. Shorts: 9:16.
Repurposing Across Platforms
If you shoot in 9:16, you can always crop to 1:1 or 4:5 for Instagram feed. Shooting vertical gives you the most flexibility for social media content.