Where a video will be used decides how it should be delivered. This page puts the common uses in one table. Settle it before commissioning the edit and you avoid finding out afterwards that the aspect ratio is wrong and a second version is needed.
Three things to settle first
- Platform: YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, website, presentation or a big screen at an event. Each has its own recommendations.
- Aspect ratio: horizontal 16:9, vertical 9:16, square 1:1, or a special ratio for an event screen (for example an ultra-wide LED wall).
- Whether you need more than one version: the same video on YouTube and Reels needs a horizontal and a vertical version, with framing and subtitle positions adjusted separately.
Common uses
| Use | Aspect ratio | Recommended resolution | File type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| YouTube video | 16:9 | 1920×1080 (Full HD) or 3840×2160 (4K) | MP4 (H.264) | 4K files are larger and take longer to upload |
| Instagram Reels / TikTok / YouTube Shorts | 9:16 | 1080×1920 | MP4 (H.264) | Keep important text out of the areas covered by the app interface |
| Instagram feed post | 1:1 or 4:5 | 1080×1080 / 1080×1350 | MP4 | 4:5 takes up more space in the feed |
| Website or landing page | Mostly 16:9 | 1920×1080 | MP4, plus WebM if needed | Auto-playing web video is usually muted and should be as small as possible |
| Presentations and training | 16:9 | 1920×1080 | MP4 | Check that the presenting computer can play H.264 |
| Event LED walls and projection | Depends on the venue | Venue spec | Venue spec | Get the specification from the venue or AV supplier before production |
| Wedding or funeral playback | 16:9 | 1920×1080 | MP4 | Test playback at the venue in advance |
Resolution, bitrate and file size
Resolution is the number of pixels (for example 1920×1080). Bitrate is how much data is used per second, which sets the quality and the file size. Two 1080p files can differ: a higher bitrate looks better but is larger. We export at the bitrate the platform recommends. If you have a file size limit (for example sending by email or LINE), tell us first.
Subtitles: burned in or as a separate file?
- Burned in: the subtitles are part of the picture, visible in any player and can't be turned off. Usual for short-form and event playback.
- Separate file (SRT): on YouTube viewers can turn them on and off, and it's easier to add other languages later.
We can deliver both. Tell us the purpose when you commission.
Frequently asked questions
I don't know the screen specification at the event venue.
Ask the venue or AV supplier for the resolution and aspect ratio and pass it on to us. Don't start production until you know, or the ratio may be wrong and need redoing.
Can I have the project files?
Standard delivery is the exported video. If you need project files, ask before we start and we'll assess whether we can provide them and at what cost.
How do I receive the files?
Through a Google Drive share link. Download and back them up when you receive them; we don't keep files long-term after a project.
