The AVS Journal
Horizontal or Vertical Aerial Video? Plan Before Capture
Choose horizontal or vertical aerial video based on where the finished film will be watched. Cropping a wide shot later can remove the property or the relationship that made it useful, so discuss both formats before capture if you need them.
List the actual destinations
A property website, presentation screen and phone feed place different demands on the frame. Tell AVS which versions are priorities and whether you need separate edits. Avoid the vague request to make one file work everywhere. The delivery plan should include orientation, approximate length and any text or branding required for each destination.
Protect the subject when planning alternate crops
A horizontal view may place the house on one side and a dock on the other. A narrow crop can preserve only one of them. If their relationship matters, plan additional coverage or a different composition. Merely centering the building does not solve every crop when the surrounding information is the reason for the shot.
Allow space for text and interface elements
Titles, captions and platform controls can cover important parts of a phone video. Preview the intended layout with the actual export. Keep essential property features and text comfortably inside the visible frame, and avoid relying on a universal safe-area measurement because interfaces and placements can differ.
Example: one waterfront scene, two edits
An illustrative horizontal version might show the house and shoreline together. A vertical version could introduce the house first and then use a separate view of the water relationship. These are two clear sequences rather than one wide shot squeezed into a format that no longer explains it.
Format decisions before capture
- Name the primary viewing destinations.
- Confirm which orientations and edits are included.
- Identify features that must remain visible together.
- Preview text and important subjects in the final export.
Frequently asked questions
Can a horizontal film be cropped vertically?
Sometimes, but not every shot will survive the crop. Review composition and image quality rather than assuming the entire film can be converted without compromises.
Do I need both formats for every listing?
Only if the marketing plan calls for them. Prioritize the format you will actually use and discuss the additional scope before booking.
