Jasmeet Raina on Social Media's Vertical Video Shift

Felix Braun · 2026-05-20

### The Emotional Toll of Clipping Content Jasmeet Raina recently opened up about a struggle many creators face today: the pressure to clip and reformat long-form content into vertical shorts. He admitted, "I get so sad clipping the show and making it vertical." It's a raw, honest moment that highlights how the changing nature of social media is forcing creators to adapt in ways that sometimes feel unnatural. You're not alone if you've felt that same pang of frustration. The shift from horizontal storytelling to vertical, snackable clips has reshaped how we consume media. But it's also changed how creators like Raina approach their craft. Instead of focusing on the full narrative arc, they're now thinking about which 15-second segment will grab attention in a crowded feed. ### Why Vertical Video Dominates Platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts have made vertical video the default format. Here's why this matters: - **User behavior**: People scroll through vertical feeds on their phones. Horizontal content feels disruptive. - **Algorithm preference**: Most platforms prioritize vertical videos because they keep users engaged longer. - **Ad revenue**: Brands pay more for vertical ad placements, so creators follow the money. But there's a downside. Clipping a show into vertical segments often loses context, pacing, and emotional nuance. Raina's sadness reflects a broader concern: are we sacrificing depth for convenience?  ### The Pressure on Creators Creators today face a tough balancing act. On one hand, they need to produce content that fits platform trends to stay relevant. On the other, they want to maintain their artistic integrity. Raina's comment shows that even successful creators struggle with this trade-off. It's not just about clipping a video. It's about deciding which moments matter most. And sometimes, the best parts of a conversation don't fit neatly into a vertical frame. That's frustrating, and it's okay to admit it. ### How to Adapt Without Losing Your Voice If you're a creator feeling this same pressure, here are a few tips: - **Keep your core message intact**: When clipping, focus on the key takeaway or emotion you want to share. - **Use text overlays**: Add context to vertical clips so viewers understand the bigger picture. - **Mix formats**: Don't abandon horizontal content entirely. Use vertical clips as teasers for longer pieces. - **Stay authentic**: Your audience follows you for your perspective, not just for trendy formats. ### The Future of Social Media The vertical video trend isn't going away. But as Raina's comment reminds us, it's okay to feel conflicted about it. The best creators will find ways to adapt without losing what makes their content special. That might mean being selective about what you clip, or it might mean experimenting with new storytelling techniques. At the end of the day, social media is about connection. Whether your video is vertical or horizontal, what matters most is that it resonates with your audience. So clip what you need to, but never forget the value of a full story.