Music video specs for YouTube and TikTok

For a primary YouTube release, plan a 16:9 master with readable detail on television and desktop screens. For TikTok and vertical Shorts, use a 9:16 composition that keeps faces, titles, and performance gestures away from interface overlays.

Protect the useful frame

Keep essential action away from extreme edges, but do not shrink every shot into the center. Compose deliberately for each format and use safe zones for captions and platform controls.

Export from the clean master

Archive a watermark-free master when your plan includes commercial rights. Create platform versions from that source, then verify duration, resolution, audio sync, caption position, and the first frame before publishing.