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Mastering Vertical Video: A Step-by-Step Guide to Edit on iMovie iPhone

Cynthia Jul 13, 2026

Dealing with vertical videos on your iPhone's iMovie doesn't have to be a struggle. With a few adjustments, you can master how to edit vertical video on iMovie and create stunning content optimized for modern platforms. Let's dive in and cover the essential steps.

How To Edit Vertical Video on iMovie iPhone
How To Edit Vertical Video on iMovie iPhone

Before we begin, make sure your iMovie app is up-to-date. This ensures you have access to the latest features and stability improvements. Now, let's get started!

How to Make iMovie Video Vertical (Portrait)
How to Make iMovie Video Vertical (Portrait)

Importing and Orientation

First, you need to import your vertical video into iMovie. Tap on the '+' icon at the top right corner and select 'Import Media.' Choose the video you want to edit. Once imported, you'll notice iMovie may push the video to a horizontal orientation. To rectify this, select the clip, tap on the 'Crop' icon, and then on the 'Ken Burns' icon. This opens the Crop tool in vertical mode.

How to edit Vertical / IGTV Videos in iMovie on iPhone | Kayla’s World
How to edit Vertical / IGTV Videos in iMovie on iPhone | Kayla’s World

Now, adjust the aspect ratio by pinching in or out. Make sure the vertical lines on the border align with your video's edges. This ensures the focus remains on your content without losing pixels. Tap 'Done' to apply the changes.

Rotating and Flipping

a man sitting in front of a guitar with the words how to edit vertical video in imovie on your iphone without black bars
a man sitting in front of a guitar with the words how to edit vertical video in imovie on your iphone without black bars

If your video was shot in portrait mode but imported as landscape, it's easy to correct this. Select the clip, tap on the 'Crop' icon, and then on the 'Rotate' button. This will rotate the video to its correct orientation.

What if you need to flip your video for creative purposes or to mirror it? Select the clip, tap on the 'Crop' icon, then on the 'Flip' button. This will mirror the video horizontally. Remember, flipping a vertical video can create unnatural results, so use it judiciously.

Vertical Specific Transitions and Titles

Edit vertical videos in iMovie on iPhone or iPad! | Vertical Video Tutorial
Edit vertical videos in iMovie on iPhone or iPad! | Vertical Video Tutorial

Adding transitions and titles to your vertical video project can enhance the overall production value. To add a transition, place two clips side by side in the timeline, tap on the Georgetown icon between them, and select the desired transition. Remember to use vertical-specific transitions to avoid showing unnecessary blank spaces.

For titles, tap on the 'T' icon, then adjust the text, font, and style. Ensure the text is centered vertically to keep the focus on the content. You can also adjust the title's duration and placement in the timeline.

Exporting and Optimizing

How to Stop iMovie From Cropping Video on iPhone
How to Stop iMovie From Cropping Video on iPhone

Once you've finished editing, it's time to export your vertical video. Tap on the 'Share' icon, then on 'Video.' Here, you can choose the resolution, frame rate, and quality of your export. Ensure you select 'Vertical' under the 'Orientation' setting.

Now, tap on the ' Chambre' icon, and then on 'Share to Files' to save your video to your iPhone or iCloud. You can also choose to share directly to social media platforms by tapping on the icons below. Remember, each platform has its own optimal vertical video resolution, so ensure you're exporting in the correct format for your intended audience.

How To Edit Vertical Video on iMovie
How To Edit Vertical Video on iMovie
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How to Edit Vertical Video – LumaFusion Tutorial
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How To Edit Video on iPhone with iMovie (2021 Tutorial)
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a man sitting at a table with plates of food in front of him and the caption how to do this
a man sitting at a table with plates of food in front of him and the caption how to do this
iMovie for iPad & iPhone - Top 10 Tips & Tricks for Mobile Editing 2020
iMovie for iPad & iPhone - Top 10 Tips & Tricks for Mobile Editing 2020
someone holding an iphone with the text blackmagic app on it's screen
someone holding an iphone with the text blackmagic app on it's screen
a person holding an iphone in their hand while sitting at a desk with various items on it
a person holding an iphone in their hand while sitting at a desk with various items on it
How to edit vertical video in Premiere Pro for IGTV & Instagram Stories
How to edit vertical video in Premiere Pro for IGTV & Instagram Stories

And there you have it! With these steps, you're well on your way to mastering how to edit vertical video on iMovie. Now, go ahead and create amazing vertical content that captivates your audience. Until next time!