How to Deliver Multiple Versions for Different Platforms
Let’s say you just wrapped a gorgeous brand shoot. The visuals are strong, the pacing is tight, and the message is clear. But now the client needs a 60-second vertical cut for Reels, a wide format version for their homepage, and a 15-second teaser that works without sound.
Suddenly, it’s not just one final video—it’s four.
And if you didn’t plan for that from the beginning, you’re in for a frustrating (and inefficient) post process.
Here’s how we approach delivering multiple versions at Fragrant Film—without losing creative integrity or losing our minds.
1. Know Your Platforms Before You Shoot
Don’t wait until editing to ask, “Where is this going?” You need those answers early.
Different platforms require different:
Aspect ratios (16:9 for YouTube, 9:16 for Stories/Reels, 1:1 or 4:5 for Instagram grid)
Runtimes (some need 15 seconds, others support up to 10 minutes)
Audio behavior (auto-play muted vs. with sound)
Pacing & attention span (TikTok ≠ Vimeo ≠ internal company portal)
If the client needs five versions, you should be shooting with that in mind—not just cropping later and hoping for the best.
2. Frame With Flexibility
We often frame “wider than we need” so we have space to punch in later. This gives us room to:
Crop vertical content from horizontal footage
Re-center talent or objects for different aspect ratios
Build multiple edits without shooting the same scene three times
It’s about planning for efficiency—especially if you’re shooting run-and-gun or with limited time.
3. Organize Your Assets Intentionally
From the moment cards get dumped, label your folders with multiple versions in mind.
Examples:
/Primary Edit
/Vertical Cut
/Teasers
/Text-Free Version (for clients who want to overlay their own copy)
Also: don’t bake-in text or graphics unless you know they’re universal. What works on a 16:9 explainer video might be illegible on a 9:16 phone screen.
4. Build a Master Timeline First
We always start with the main hero edit. Once that version is approved, we branch out.
From there:
Create shorter cuts from the full timeline (not from scratch)
Duplicate and adjust sequences by platform
Reframe shots for vertical or square versions
Update transitions or pacing as needed per version
This keeps your messaging, tone, and flow consistent—without doubling your editing workload.
5. Manage Expectations with Clients Early
Clients might assume “cutting a version” is as simple as exporting a different file. If you don’t educate them early, you’ll feel underappreciated and overworked.
Set the tone:
“Happy to deliver multiple formats—let’s build that into the scope so we can plan ahead and keep everything excellent.”
You’re not being difficult. You’re protecting the creative.
6. Deliver Smart
Label files clearly. Include notes. Avoid confusion.
Example delivery folder:
markdownCopyEdit
/Finals - BrandFilm_16x9_Website.mp4 - BrandFilm_9x16_Reels.mp4 - BrandFilm_1x1_Grid.mp4 - BrandFilm_15s_Teaser_NoText.mp4
Keep a PDF one-sheet with specs, recommendations, and where to post each version. Clients love it. You’ll save yourself emails.
Final Thought
Delivering multiple versions isn’t just an extra task—it’s part of what makes your work usable across platforms.
At Fragrant Film, we believe in crafting excellent stories and thinking ahead. The goal isn’t just one great video. It’s building assets that serve vision, strategy, and sustainability.
Anticipate the ask. Design your edit with intention.
That’s how you become not just a filmmaker—but a trusted creative partner.
