Horizontal videos in 16:9 are trending again on TikTok and Instagram.
You post widescreen clips, the same format used on YouTube, instead of traditional vertical content.
Creators are using this style for documentaries, vlogs, tutorials, and cinematic shots because it feels more polished and intentional.
You see it used for travel content, business storytelling, behind-the-scenes footage, podcast clips, and long-form repurposing.
The wider frame lets you show more of the scene: multiple people in frame, screen recordings, presentations, or full environments instead of tight crops.
Why This Trend Matters Today
Platforms are now offering more flexible aspect ratios, and users are becoming accustomed to rotating their phones or watching letterboxed clips. ‘
The widescreen look signals “premium content,” so viewers expect greater depth, stories, education, or real context, rather than quick memes.
Horizontal clips also make repurposing easier.
One recording can run on YouTube, X, TikTok, and Instagram without heavy editing. For creators focused on efficiency, that matters: one asset, multiple platforms, consistent branding.
How To Join The ‘Horizontal Video’ Trend
Record or export your video in the 16:9 horizontal aspect ratio.
Upload directly to TikTok or Instagram without cropping. Use footage that benefits from width: conversations, workspaces, travel scenes, or screen demos. Add clean captions so viewers watching vertically can still read easily.
Lean into authenticity and story over heavy effects.
Treat the frame like mini-YouTube, clearer audio, better lighting, and slower pacing all work well here. If you’re repurposing long-form content, cut strong segments and post them as standalone widescreen clips.
- Pro Tip: Design your composition for both views. Keep key subjects centered so the video still works when letterboxed on phones.
You may also want to check out some of our other social media trend updates.
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