Should I Be Doing Landscape Videos on TikTok Now?

Feb 26, 2024
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If you've been bitten by the TikTok bug like millions of others, you may have noticed a recent surge in landscape videos on the platform.

Should you jump on this bandwagon and start creating your own eye-catching horizontal content?

Let's dive in and explore whether landscape videos on TikTok are the next big thing or just a passing trend.

But first...

Why is TikTok making landscape videos now?

You might be scratching your head and wondering why TikTok, a platform notoriously associated with vertical videos, is suddenly embracing the horizontal realm.

Well, my friend, the answer lies in the ever-evolving nature of social media.

TikTok recognizes that creators have diverse visions and stories that can be better conveyed through a wider frame.

By enabling landscape videos, TikTok is opening up new creative avenues and expanding the possibilities for visual storytelling.

The shift to landscape videos on TikTok is also a strategic move to attract a wider audience and cater to different viewing preferences.

With the rise of smart TVs and larger screens, landscape videos offer a more immersive viewing experience, especially for content that benefits from a broader perspective.

This move not only aligns TikTok with the viewing habits of its users but also positions the platform as a versatile space for creators to experiment with various formats and styles.

As TikTok continues to evolve and adapt to the ever-changing digital landscape, the introduction of landscape videos signifies a step towards inclusivity and innovation.

By embracing this new format, TikTok is empowering creators to explore new storytelling techniques and engage with audiences in fresh and exciting ways.

So, next time you see a landscape video on TikTok, remember that it's not just about the orientation - it's about the endless possibilities that come with embracing change in the world of social media.

Tips for Creating Engaging Landscape Videos

Now that we've established the allure of landscape videos, let's talk about how you can create compelling content that captivates your TikTok audience.

Here are a few tips to get you started:

When it comes to landscape videos, the possibilities are endless.

One way to make your content stand out is by paying attention to the lighting.

Golden hour, the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers a soft, warm glow that can enhance the beauty of your surroundings.

Experiment with different times of the day to see how the light transforms your shots and adds depth to your videos.

  • Embrace the wide angle: With a horizontal canvas, you have more space to work with. Take advantage of this by incorporating breathtaking scenery or intriguing backgrounds that complement your video's narrative.
  • Experiment with transitions: Landscape videos allow for seamless transitions between shots, giving your content a polished and professional touch. Try incorporating unique transitions like swipes or spins to elevate your videos to the next level.
  • Think outside the vertical box: Landscape videos offer a chance to break the mold and explore new genres or storytelling techniques. Play around with different styles and formats to keep your audience guessing and coming back for more.

Another tip for creating engaging landscape videos is to pay attention to the composition of your shots.

Use the rule of thirds to create visually appealing frames that draw the viewer's eye to key elements in the scene.

By carefully framing your shots, you can create a sense of balance and harmony that enhances the overall aesthetic of your videos.

When considering whether to film horizontal or vertical on TikTok, it's important to also take into account the platform's user behavior.

TikTok is primarily a mobile app, and most users hold their phones vertically when scrolling through content.

This means that vertical videos may naturally attract more attention and engagement as they seamlessly fit into the user's viewing experience.

On the other hand, horizontal videos can stand out due to their less common orientation, potentially capturing the audience's curiosity and making them stop scrolling to watch.

The choice between horizontal and vertical filming can also be influenced by the type of content you are creating.

For fast-paced, dynamic videos that focus on individual elements or close-up shots, vertical filming may be more suitable as it maximizes the screen space for those details.

Conversely, if your content involves wide landscapes, group shots, or intricate background details that add depth to your storytelling, horizontal filming could be the way to go.

Ultimately, understanding your audience, content style, and creative vision will guide you in making the right decision for your TikTok videos.

That being said...

How long should a TikTok video be to go viral?

Before we talk about landscape videos, let's quickly address an essential factor in any TikTok success story: video length.

When it comes to capturing the attention of the TikTok community, brevity is key.

The optimal video length for viral potential tends to hover around the 15-30 second mark.

So be concise, snappy, and get straight to the point!

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However, it's important to note that while shorter videos are generally favored on TikTok, there are instances where longer videos can also gain traction.

For example, in-depth tutorials, engaging storytelling, or captivating behind-the-scenes footage can sometimes hold viewers' attention for longer durations.

So, don't be afraid to experiment with different video lengths to see what resonates best with your audience.

When considering the ideal length for your TikTok videos, keep in mind that the platform's algorithm also plays a significant role in determining virality.

Factors such as watch time, engagement rates, and completion rates all contribute to how TikTok promotes and shares content.

So, while aiming for brevity is a good rule of thumb, don't forget to prioritize creating high-quality, engaging content that resonates with your audience, regardless of the video length.

Understanding the Algorithm: Landscape vs. Vertical

Does TikTok's algorithm favor landscape videos over their vertical counterparts?

The short answer is possibly?

TikTok's algorithm analyzes various factors such as engagement, watch time, and completion rate—not the orientation of your videos.

But... it's also been stated that it's helping push out landscape videos to get more people viewing them.

So, do your own research and test.

Whether you choose to go vertical or horizontal, rest assured that quality content and engagement are what truly matter.

When creating content for TikTok, it's essential to focus on capturing your audience's attention within the first few seconds.

This initial hook can significantly impact your video's performance on the platform.

Experiment with different ways to make your videos engaging right from the start, whether it's through a catchy opening, a surprising visual element, or a compelling story that draws viewers in.

Furthermore, TikTok's algorithm also takes into account user interactions such as likes, comments, and shares.

Encouraging viewers to interact with your content can help boost its visibility and reach on the platform.

Consider incorporating call-to-action prompts in your videos to prompt viewers to engage with your content, whether it's asking them to like the video, leave a comment, or share it with their friends.

Future Trends: The Evolution of Landscape Videos on TikTok

As with any social media platform, TikTok's landscape video trend will undoubtedly continue to evolve.

Keep your eyes peeled for new features and editing tools that enhance the landscape video experience.

Stay ahead of the curve by experimenting with different formats, collaborating with fellow creators, and exploring uncharted territories.

In addition to exploring new features and editing tools, creators can also consider incorporating immersive sound design into their landscape videos.

Utilizing spatial audio techniques can further enhance the viewer's experience, transporting them into the world being depicted on screen.

This auditory dimension adds a layer of depth and engagement that complements the visual storytelling aspect of landscape videos.

As the landscape video trend gains momentum, creators may find innovative ways to blend elements of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) into their content.

By integrating AR filters or creating interactive VR experiences within landscape videos, creators can offer audiences a truly immersive and interactive viewing experience.

This fusion of technology and creativity opens up endless possibilities for pushing the boundaries of storytelling on TikTok.

Final Verdict

Definitely maybe...

The platform is constantly changing things up and everyone should be testing the new features as soon as they can.

Will they work for you? 

Possibly.

Will they work for everyone? 

Probably not.

Try anyway.

Adam Inocco
Writer