What’s the Best Ratio for Hotel Videos on Social Media?
In today’s highly competitive hospitality industry, social media has become one of the most influential platforms for attracting and engaging potential guests. As video content continues to dominate, one question we often hear is: What’s the best ratio for hotel videos on social media?
The answer depends on the platform and the purpose of the video. Whether you’re showcasing a luxurious suite, a five-star dining experience, or the serene beauty of your hotel’s surroundings, choosing the correct video ratio is crucial for maximizing engagement.
Why Video Ratios Matter in Hotel Marketing
The video ratio refers to the proportional relationship between a video’s width and height. It determines how your video is displayed across various platforms. If you don’t use the right ratio for the right platform, your video could appear cropped, distorted, or unprofessional — and that’s the last thing a luxury hotel brand wants.
Different platforms and audiences have unique preferences, so optimizing your video ratios ensures that your carefully crafted content delivers maximum impact. Here’s why this matters:
- User Experience: Videos tailored to specific platforms look more professional and make navigation easier for viewers.
- Visibility: Algorithms on platforms like Instagram and TikTok favour content optimised for their preferred ratios.
- Engagement: Well-framed videos are more likely to hold viewers’ attention, increasing likes, shares, and click-throughs.
Best Ratios for Popular Social Media Platforms
To elevate your hotel’s online presence, let’s break down the best video ratios for social media platforms and their ideal use cases:
1. Instagram
- Feed Posts: Use a square ratio (1:1) for a balanced, clean appearance on grids and a consistent look.
- Stories & Reels: Go vertical (9:16) to fill the full screen and create immersive experiences for viewers.
- Carousel Videos: Stick to 1:1 for cohesive storytelling.
- Why? Instagram prioritizes vertical and square content that’s visually dynamic, perfect for showcasing room tours or dining experiences.
2. TikTok
- Ratio: Always 9:16 for vertical, full-screen videos.
- Why? TikTok is a vertical-first platform. Fun, fast-paced videos of your hotel’s amenities, spas, or activities work best in this format.
3. Facebook
- Feed Posts: Use 4:5 (vertical) for feed videos to maximize on-screen real estate without cropping.
- Stories: Stick to 9:16 for full immersion.
- Why? Facebook’s diverse user base responds well to both vertical and square videos for hotel ads, promotions, or events.
4. YouTube
- Standard Videos: 16:9 (landscape) is the go-to ratio for showcasing cinematic hotel brand videos or testimonials.
- Shorts: Stick with 9:16 for engaging, snackable vertical content.
- Why? YouTube’s versatility allows you to highlight cinematic brand films while leveraging Shorts for quick engagement.
5. LinkedIn
- Feed Videos: Use 16:9 (landscape) for professional storytelling and brand promotion.
- Why? LinkedIn is best for more formal, polished content, such as showcasing your hotel’s corporate offerings or awards.
6. Pinterest
- Ratio: Opt for 2:3 (portrait) or 9:16 for video Pins.
- Why? Pinterest is an inspiring platform for travel planners, making portrait formats ideal for aspirational hotel visuals.
Custom Ratios for Paid Ads
When creating videos for social media ads, customising the aspect ratio to fit specific placements can significantly improve performance. For example:
- Facebook and Instagram Ads: Use 4:5 or 9:16 for vertical placements and 1:1 for feed placements.
- YouTube Ads: 16:9 is standard, but don’t forget to create shorter vertical edits for mobile viewers.
- Google Video Ads: Ratios like 1:1 and 16:9 work best for cross-platform compatibility.
Why Customisation is Key for Luxury Hotels
Luxury hotels rely on video to communicate exclusivity, elegance, and unique guest experiences. Using the wrong video ratio risks diluting this image and turning off potential guests. For example:
- A vertical video poorly cropped into a square ratio might cut out key features of a luxurious suite.
- A cinematic 16:9 video squished into a 4:5 ratio can distort visuals, undermining your brand’s professionalism.
Tailoring your videos ensures that your content:
- Preserves Your Visual Story: Whether it’s a serene infinity pool or fine dining close-ups, the right ratio keeps your visuals impactful.
- Enhances Cross-Platform Engagement: A single, all-purpose video ratio doesn’t work anymore. Guests expect content tailored to their viewing platform.
- Strengthens Call-to-Actions: Well-framed videos make CTAs like “Book Now” or “Discover More” more visible and clickable.
Pro Tips for Optimizing Hotel Video Ratios
- Plan Ahead During Production: Shoot with multiple ratios in mind, ensuring footage can be cropped or resized without losing key details.
- Test and Analyze: Use analytics tools to track engagement on different platforms and refine your strategy.
- Work with Experts: Collaborate with a video production team experienced in crafting content specifically for hotels and social media.
Final Thoughts
Using the right video ratios is no longer optional — it’s essential for luxury hotel brands that want to stand out. At Factor Fifty, we specialise in creating award-winning hotel videos optimized for every platform. From stunning 16:9 brand films to engaging 9:16 social media reels, our tailored approach ensures your content captures attention and drives bookings.
Ready to elevate your hotel’s video marketing? Contact us today to start crafting custom video content that delivers results.
