The aspect ratio is an important setting in video editing that determines how your video content will be displayed on screens. Choosing the right aspect ratio ensures your video looks its best when viewed on various platforms and devices.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the easy process of changing the aspect ratio in CapCut, a popular free video editing app. With just a few taps, you can set the perfect ratio for your videos.
Table of Contents
Why Aspect Ratio Matters for Video Creation
The aspect ratio refers to the proportional relationship between the width and height of your video frame. Some common aspect ratios are:
- 16:9 – The standard widescreen/landscape format used for YouTube, Facebook, etc.
- 9:16 – Vertical format used for Instagram Stories, TikTok, etc.
- 1:1 – Square format often used for Instagram posts
- 4:5 – Vertical format gaining popularity on Instagram and Facebook
If you use the wrong aspect ratio, your video may appear stretched, squished, or with black bars when viewed on certain platforms. This hurts the viewing experience.
Additionally, aspect ratio impacts composition. A vertical 9:16 or 4:5 ratio adds a portrait style framing compared to wide 16:9 landscape framing.
So picking the right one for your video content and intended publishing platforms is important.
How to Change Aspect Ratio in CapCut
Changing the aspect ratio in CapCut is simple:
- Import your video clip – Tap the “+” button to access your photos/videos then select a video to import.
- Tap the “Ratio” icon – It’s located along the bottom toolbar. Tapping it opens the aspect ratio menu.
- Select the desired ratio – Choose from preset options like 9:16, 16:9, 4:5, 1:1, etc. Tap a ratio to instantly change project settings.
- Adjust/reposition your clip – Use the crop tool if needed to avoid black bars or reposition your clip so important elements aren’t cut off by the new ratio.
And you’re done! The new aspect ratio will now apply to your CapCut project. Feel free to customize it further or export it to share.
Tips for Choosing the Right Aspect Ratio
Here are some quick tips on picking the best aspect ratio for your videos in CapCut:
- 16:9 – Suitable for YouTube, Facebook, LinkedIn, etc. Provides a widescreen cinematic look.
- 9:16 – Ideal for vertical videos on TikTok, Instagram Reels, Stories. Gives a portrait framing.
- 1:1 – Perfect square format for Instagram feed posts. No cropping or distortion.
- 4:5 – Gaining popularity for vertical Instagram and Facebook videos. More portrait framing.
- Custom – Create a custom ratio not available in presets by entering resolution values.
In most cases, it’s wise to shoot or edit your original footage in 16:9 landscape at the highest resolution possible. This 16:9 master clip gives you flexibility to then export cropped versions at other aspect ratios needed for different social platforms.
Advanced Techniques: Keyframes and Animation
When you change aspect ratios, your footage may not perfectly fit the new canvas size in CapCut. While tools like crop, pan and zoom can help reframe shots, more precise control is possible by using keyframes for animation.
Here is an overview of keyframe animation in CapCut:
- Add a keyframe – Tap the clip then the “timer” icon to open keyframes. Tap “+” to place a keyframe then reposition your clip.
- Adjust multiple keyframes – Add keyframes throughout the timeline wherever adjustment is needed then reposition the clip at each keyframe.
- Review the animation – CapCut will automatically transition the movement/sizing between your keyframes when you play the clip. Tweak keyframes as needed.
This allows you to animate the position and scaling of your clip to perfectly fit the new aspect ratio over the entire video. It takes more effort but enables advanced video edits.
Exporting Videos with Correct Aspect Ratios
After editing your video in CapCut, make sure to export it using the share icon at an optimal resolution and aspect ratio suitable for your publishing platform.
Common export recommendations:
- YouTube – 1080p or 4K resolution with 16:9 aspect ratio
- Instagram Feed – 1080 x 1080 resolution with 1:1 aspect ratio
- Instagram Stories – 1080 x 1920 resolution with 9:16 aspect ratio
- TikTok – 1080 x 1920 resolution with 9:16 aspect ratio
Customizing export settings ensures your video uploads to each platform correctly without distortion or quality loss.
Final Tips for Aspect Ratio Success
Adjusting aspect ratio in CapCut is easy thanks to the handy presets and tools available in the app. Keep these final tips in mind:
- Shoot original footage in high-res 16:9 then edit for multiple platforms
- Know ideal ratios for your publishing destinations
- Use keyframes for animated adjustments between ratios
- Export videos accordingly to avoid upload issues
With the right aspect ratio, your CapCut videos will look visually stunning when shared on social media and other sites. Have fun exploring the creative possibilities!
About the Author
I’m a professional video editor with 5 years of experience creating video content for social media marketing. I’m passionate about helping small business owners amplify their brand and tell compelling stories through short-form vertical video ads.
When I’m not editing, you can find me trying the latest TikTok recipes in my kitchen or rewatching The Office for the 100th time. Feel free to connect on Instagram @videoqueen for video tips!
