Everyone is consuming content on social media today more than ever before. And a lot of content creators are on the rise, competing for attention on these platforms. This also means your content is less likely to stand out amongst the noise.

So how do you ensure that your content captures the attention of your audience? How can you stand out?

The answer is vertical video formats.

The aspect ratio of the content you post on social media can significantly impact user engagement and interaction. Vertical videos are more visually appealing on mobile devices, which is how most social media users access their accounts.

Vertical video dimensions allow for a more immersive viewing experience, as it takes up the entire screen on mobile devices. It also allows for more effortless scrolling and consuming content on social media platforms, where users tend to scroll quickly through their feeds.

But vertical video is not just about capturing attention on social media; it also allows for better storytelling, as the vertical frame creates a more intimate and personal viewing experience.

Vertical video content takes up more real estate on mobile screens, making them instantly more noticeable to viewers scrolling through their feeds.

It also allows the viewer to fully immerse themselves in the content without distractions or needing to rotate their phone.

The rise of mobile video consumption

The vertical format also aligns with the rise of mobile video consumption. Animoto’s 2022 State of Social Video reports that 93% of businesses landed a new customer after sharing a video on social media. It also ranked video #1 in terms of ROI. Furthermore, the study found that 57% of millennial consumers watch more video ads on social media than on TV. About 86% of businesses use video as a marketing strategy.

Does it mean it’s time to create vertical videos than horizontal videos?

The quick answer – is yes!

Horizontal video used to be the standard for video content, but with the rise in mobile usage and social media consumption, vertical videos are quickly becoming the preferred format.

Vertical video functionality is now available on popular video editing software and is being implemented by major social media platforms.

So, to truly stand out on social media and engage your audience, start creating compelling vertical video content.

Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and experiment with this format – that’s how you’ll genuinely rock vertical videos.

Should you make ads in vertical format?

Mirror yourself. When you browse a social media platform, what type of gadget do you use?

Chances are, it’s your smartphone. And when we scan our phones, the vertical video format is far more suitable.

Vertical video ads can effortlessly fit into the user’s natural scrolling behavior, leading to higher engagement and more potential conversions.

However, it is still essential to consider your target audience and platform. While vertical videos may be popular on mobile social media, horizontal videos may still be the preferred format for desktop viewing or specific platforms like YouTube.

When creating vertical videos know your audience and your platform – this will ensure the most successful ad campaign.

The Video Formats You Need to Remember

• The recommended aspect ratio for Facebook vertical videos is 9:16.
• For Facebook feeds, the maximum dimensions are 1289x5px, and for Stories, 1080x1920px.
• When using a video carousel format, it is recommended to use a 1:1 aspect ratio for all videos in the carousel.
• Finally, when using Audience Network or in-stream video formats, the correct aspect ratio is 9:16.

Protect Yourself Against Vertical Video Syndrome

If you think there is no turning back once you start filming videos in a vertical format, think again.

Don’t get infested with Vertical Video Syndrome – a satire disease that claims those afflicted can only shoot videos in portrait orientation.

To avoid this, remember to continually assess your filming environment and the platform on which you will share the video before deciding on a vertical or horizontal format.

In some cases, switching to landscape mode may be more suitable for your content and audience. So, don’t forget to keep an open mind and experiment with both vertical and horizontal formats.

What matters most is creating high-quality, engaging content – so don’t let vertical video restrict your creativity.

In conclusion

Vertical videos quickly became the preferred social media consumption and engagement format. But remember to continually assess your filming environment and target audience before deciding on a vertical or horizontal format. Experiment with both, and focus on creating high-quality content that will captivate your target audience.

Need to upgrade your video marketing?

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Our team at Mentally Balanced Media will help you stand out on social media and engage your audience effectively.

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