Field guide
FanEdit signal pageFan Edit Export Settings for TikTok, Reels, and Shorts
For most short-form fan edits, start with a 1080 × 1920 vertical 9:16 master, progressive scan, H.264 video, AAC audio, and the source frame rate. Keep faces, captions, and key action away from interface overlays, then test the uploaded result before publishing the campaign.
By FanEdit Editorial Team · Updated Aug 17, 2026
Sources and methodology
- Instagram Reel size and aspect ratios — Official Meta guidance.
- YouTube Shorts upload guidance — Official YouTube Help.
- TikTok creative quality tips — Official TikTok for Business guidance.
Frame 01
Use one clean vertical master
A 1080 × 1920, 9:16 master is a practical starting point for full-screen short-form work. Preserve the original frame rate instead of manufacturing extra frames at export.
- 01Resolution: 1080 × 1920
- 02Aspect ratio: 9:16
- 03Video: H.264 in MP4
- 04Audio: AAC with no clipping
Frame 02
Platform differences still matter
Instagram accepts a range of Reel aspect ratios and recommends at least 30 FPS and 720 pixels. YouTube classifies square or vertical uploads up to three minutes as Shorts, while rights restrictions can affect longer claimed Shorts. TikTok creative guidance favors full-screen 9:16.
- 01Check current platform help before a large delivery
- 02Avoid baking important text into interface zones
- 03Use original or properly licensed audio for commercial work
Frame 03
Quality control after upload
Platform compression can expose issues that are not obvious in the local file. Upload a private or unlisted test, inspect motion and text on a phone, confirm audio sync, and only then deliver every version.
- 01Check the first frame and cover
- 02Check captions under interface overlays
- 03Check dark gradients and high-motion scenes
- 04Confirm rights and privacy settings