Remember when video capability came onto the scene and the hardest part was remembering to “turn your phone sideways” to capture the ideal footage and avoid that pesky dead space along the side of the final video? Yeah, forget about that. Vertical is back, baby.
According to Oscar Wilde, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. If that’s true, then TikTok must be the most flattered app out there. Everyone wants to be it or beat it or both. In the world of digital content creation, there’s a recognizable shift happening: the rise (or return?) of vertical videos. What was once an unconventional format is now dominating social media platforms and revolutionizing the way we consume visual content. This blog aims to explore and explain the reasons behind the intentional shift to vertical video, the impact on content creation, the advantages it brings, and what the future holds for this current trend.
The evolution of video consumption has played a significant role in the popularity of vertical video. With the widespread use of smartphones, users are more inclined to hold their devices vertically. This preference for vertical orientation has driven content creators to adapt and cater to this demand, resulting in a shift from traditional horizontal videos to vertical ones. Think about the way the device we choose to view videos is shaped. Phones are vertical, and computer screens and televisions are shaped horizontally. If we are watching the content on a vertical screen, it just makes sense to create it in a way that will translate effectively so the brain can focus solely on consuming the content instead of making subtle edits. This is probably the most crucial driver in the shift back to vertical filming.
Vertical videos are dominating the content landscape for several reasons. Importantly, they provide a more immersive viewing experience tailored to mobile devices. By occupying the full screen, vertical videos captivate viewers’ attention and minimize distractions. The vertical format allows for a larger display of content, making it easier for viewers to focus on the video without any unnecessary elements cluttering the screen and distracting the viewer.
Furthermore, vertical videos feel more natural as they are aligned with how users hold their smartphones. When we hold our phones vertically, it creates a sense of intimacy and connection with the content we are consuming. It feels like we are having a one-on-one conversation with the video, enhancing the overall viewing experience. This seamless integration between the vertical video and the viewer’s natural behavior creates a stronger emotional connection, leading to increased engagement levels. If the viewing experience is familiar and comfortable, the viewer is likely to extend their time with the company or creator that is offering up the content.
Speaking of experience, whether it is conscious or not, the way in which intimate moments and details can be captured really shine through in vertical viewing. Same goes for the grandeur of a scene when viewed in the same format that it was filmed. Imagine watching a vertical video that takes you on a journey through a bustling city. As you scroll through the video, the tall buildings seem to stretch endlessly towards the sky, immersing you in the urban landscape. You, the viewer, can almost feel like you’re a part of it all. Close up details are similarly portrayed, especially if you’re watching a musician perform their craft, or a surgeon save a life. Even though your device may be small, your experience is limitless.
One addition to video creating and consumption has been that brands and creators can leverage the power of vertical video to deliver personalized and targeted content. With the rise of social media and personalized advertising, vertical video provides an ideal platform for delivering tailored messages to specific audiences. By understanding the preferences and behaviors of their target audience, brands can create vertical video content that resonates deeply and drives meaningful engagement.
The rise of vertical video has undoubtedly transformed the visual content creation world. Understanding the shift to vertical video, the impact on content creation, and the advantages it brings is crucial for anyone looking to succeed in the digital landscape at this time in the world. Immersive visual experiences await you! It’s time to dive in.