What is 1:1?
1:1 is a commonly used aspect ratio in videography. It produces videos that are a perfect square; the width and height of the video image are the same. The main advantage of the 1:1 aspect ratio is that it is easy to view on various platforms and devices.
What is Aspect Ratio?
The aspect ratio indicates the proportional relationship between the width and height of a video image. It is commonly denoted as width: height, separated by a colon. The aspect ratio is the factor that determines how wide the video is and how it will fit on your display screen.
Use Cases of 1:1 Aspect Ratio
- 1:1 is used on Instagram and TikTok for its square video and photo posts
- Profile pictures on social media platforms are typically 1:1.
- 1:1 is used to create posters, brochures, and more
- 1:1 is used for still photography and portraits
- 1:1 is also used in videos captured for surveillance cameras
Note: 1:1 aspect ratio is not commonly used in television nowadays. It is aptly used in short-form video content on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
1:1 vs. Other Aspect Ratios
Some commonly used aspect ratios include:
- 16:9 — it is used across most modern televisions and display monitors, as well as for HD and UHD resolutions.
- 4:3 — it is typically used in television and older computer monitors
- 3:2 — it is a traditional format used in photography
- 2.39:1 — often called Cinemascope, it is used for high-end movies and television shows.
While there are recommended sizes and aspect ratios for different content formats, content creators often use aspect ratios in conjunction with one another to fit the need of the content. Most platforms support various aspect ratios and formats.