While people watch movies and television horizontally, there has been an increase in the popularity of vertical video. Vertical video involves the image being more tall than wide. However, the increased popularity of smartphones and iPhones has made vertical video more accessible. It is more likely for an individual to record a moment by using their phone because it is convenient and easy. We carry our phones with us almost everywhere. Having our phones within reach makes creating a video a lot simpler. Our phones are taller than wider, which is why videos are vertical instead of horizontal. Unless someone turns his or her phone so it will record horizontally, the image comes out vertical.
Throughout this article we will discuss how vertical video is taking over. The increased demand for smartphones connects with the increased popularity of vertical videos.
So, why vertical video?
There are several reasons why people choose to record their videos vertically rather than horizontally. Listed below are some of the reasons why vertical videos are taking over:
Convenience
Vertical videos are easier to watch on a phone. Because people have instant access to their social media accounts through their phones, audiences tend to view videos on their mobile devices. When someone records their videos horizontally the image shrinks. Therefore, it is more appealing and easier to watch a vertical video. Phones are naturally shaped vertically, so it makes sense why an individual wants to watch a video vertically. In fact, Aaron Shapiro, the CEO of the digital consulting company Huge, states in an article how shooting a video vertically is the obvious and natural thing to do. We adjust ourselves to our objects, and in a way, we become accustomed to the vertical image.
Popularity
It is more common for someone to watch videos on their phones rather than on their computers or televisions while on social media. Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook, and other social media accounts use images. Mobile devices make videos more easily accessible. Vertical video is more popular because more people use their phones to record videos. If more videos are being recorded vertically, it makes sense why more people watch vertical videos.
Social Media
As previously mentioned, vertical video is popular because of its relevance in social media. With the increase of Snapchat’s popularity there has also been an increase of vertical video. Audiences engage more with vertical videos. They tend to be more captivated by videos on the phone than on any other device. Social media accounts that support vertical video not only includes Snapchat and Facebook, but also Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.
Competition
Vertical video has also attracted mobile video advertising. Marketers invest themselves in mobile video advertising because of the popularity of vertical video. Competitors understand that in order to appeal to audiences they need to utilize the resource of a phone. There is a large amount of competition when it comes to vertical videos and ads. By using the vertical video as a platform for your advertisements you can appeal to a larger audience and compete with other advertisers.
How to Take Advantage of Vertical Video
Use vertical video as a way to engage with your audience on social media. There are different steps you can take depending on which social media account you use.
- Use Your Phone: People use their phones every single day. However, if you want to take advantage of vertical video, you need to use your phone strategically. Try portrait mode and record vertical videos more often.
- Use Facebook: Uploading vertical videos on Facebook can be really beneficial. Facebook has adjusted to vertical video by defaulting videos to 2:3 aspect ratio for smartphones. Plus, it is a great way to practice and engage with your audience.
- Use Instagram: Instagram is a great way to use and record vertical videos. Instagram stories are displayed vertically. If you need practice posting vertical videos, Instagram is a great tool to use.
Overall…
Vertical video is a great way to engage your audience on social media. There are several people who watch videos on their phones. When audiences are on social media they tend to watch videos on their phones. More than likely, these videos are displayed vertically because they were recorded vertically. Phones are made to be held vertically. So, it is easier and more convenient to record vertical videos. Vertical video took over the year 2017 and will only grow. Take control of your social media account by recording and posting vertical videos.
As a writer and a poet, Alexandra finds that words have the power to connect people from around the world.
