Guide
vertical-videoshort-formaiVertical Videos with AI [Step-by-Step]
Vertical video dominates mobile content consumption. Learn how to create professional 9:16 videos with AI that are optimized for TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Instagram Reels.
Last updated: March 4, 2026
Step-by-Step Guide
Design for vertical from the start
Plan content in 9:16 format from the beginning. Never crop horizontal to vertical.
Generate with AI in vertical format
FluxNote creates content in 9:16 by default with proper framing and text placement.
Optimize text placement
Keep text in the center 60% of the frame. Avoid top and bottom edges where platform UI overlaps.
Test on each platform
Preview how your video looks on TikTok, Shorts, and Reels. Adjust for platform-specific safe zones.
Publish native versions
Upload natively to each platform for best algorithm performance. Make platform-specific adjustments.
Why vertical video is the standard for mobile
Over 75% of all video is consumed on mobile devices, and people hold their phones vertically 94% of the time. Vertical (9:16) video fills the entire screen, creating a more immersive experience than letterboxed horizontal content.
Every major platform now prioritizes vertical video: TikTok, YouTube Shorts, Instagram Reels, Snapchat, and even Facebook. Creating in vertical format is no longer optional — it is essential.
AI tools are optimized for vertical video creation from the start. FluxNote generates content in 9:16 by default, with proper framing, text placement, and safe zones for each platform.
Step-by-step guide
Step 1: Plan for vertical from the start.
Do not create horizontal and crop later. Design your content for 9:16 from the beginning.
Step 2: Generate your content with AI.
Use FluxNote to create scripts, voiceover, and footage already formatted for vertical video.
Step 3: Optimize text placement.
Keep subtitles and text in the center of the frame. Avoid the top 15% and bottom 20% where platform UI elements overlap.
Step 4: Test on each platform.
Preview how your video looks on TikTok, Shorts, and Reels. Each has slightly different safe zones.
Step 5: Export and publish platform-specific versions.
Make small adjustments for each platform if needed. Publish natively for best algorithm performance.
Tips for best results
- Center your text and key visuals in the middle 60% of the frame
- Design for thumb-stop — the first frame must be compelling even as a tiny thumbnail
- Use large font sizes — at least 40px for subtitles on mobile screens
- Avoid horizontal b-roll — it looks cramped and unprofessional in vertical format
- Test on your own phone before publishing to verify readability and framing
Common mistakes to avoid
- Cropping horizontal video into vertical — it always looks bad
- Text in platform safe zones — TikTok, Shorts, and Reels all overlay UI at edges
- Tiny font sizes — text must be readable on a phone screen
- Important visuals at the edges — keep everything important in the center
- Same version for every platform — each platform has different safe zones and UI
Pro Tips
- Always design for vertical from the start, never crop horizontal footage
- Keep text and key visuals in the center 60% of the frame
- Use font sizes of at least 40px for mobile readability
- Test on your own phone before publishing to verify everything looks right
- Upload natively to each platform instead of using cross-posting tools
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