The proportional relationship between an image or video's width and height.

Design & Layout

What is Aspect Ratio?

The proportional relationship between an image or video's width and height.

Definition

Aspect ratio defines the shape of your ad creative — 1:1 (square), 4:5 (portrait), 9:16 (vertical/Stories), and 16:9 (landscape). Different placements require different ratios: Feed ads perform best at 1:1 or 4:5 (which takes up more screen space), Stories and Reels require 9:16, and YouTube pre-roll uses 16:9. Designing creative in all required aspect ratios ensures your ads look native on every placement and maximizes reach.

Example

A brand adapts their product launch ad into three aspect ratios: 1:1 for Instagram Feed, 9:16 for Stories, and 16:9 for YouTube, ensuring consistent branding across all placements.

Related Terms

Ad Creative The visual and written content that makes up an advertisement. Ad Format The structure and type of an advertisement, such as image, video, or carousel. Placement The specific location where an ad appears on a platform.

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