Aspect Ratio

Also known as: aspect_ratio

Aspect ratio sets the width-to-height proportion of the generated image or video. Common options include 1:1 (square), 16:9 (widescreen), and 9:16 (portrait/mobile). The right choice depends on your intended use — social media, film, print, or mobile display.

What It Does

Rather than specifying exact pixel dimensions, many models accept an aspect ratio parameter that automatically calculates the appropriate width and height. This keeps the total pixel count within the model’s optimal range while giving you control over the image shape.

The aspect ratio you choose has significant impact on composition. Square images (1:1) center the subject naturally. Wide images (16:9) encourage horizontal compositions with landscapes or group shots. Tall images (9:16) are ideal for portraits or mobile-first content. Some models support additional ratios like 4:3, 3:2, or 21:9 for ultrawide compositions.

Adjusting It in CSF

Aspect ratio is set in the Advanced Model Settings modal. Edit a production design, open its Image tab (or Video tab for video models), and click Advanced Settings, then pick the model to configure. If the model exposes an aspect_ratio parameter, CSF renders it as a row of buttons — one per ratio that model supports — with the selected ratio highlighted.

Because the buttons come straight from the model’s own list, you’ll only see the ratios it accepts. Click one to select it, then Save to store it for this design and model (only if it differs from the default); Reset to Defaults restores the model’s default shape.

Common Ratios

1:1 (Square)

Equal width and height. Classic format for portraits, social media posts, and album art.

16:9 (Widescreen)

Standard cinematic and display ratio. Great for landscapes, establishing shots, and video thumbnails.

9:16 (Portrait)

Tall format for mobile screens, stories, and vertical video. Ideal for full-body character portraits.

Tips

Match the aspect ratio to your intended platform: 1:1 for Instagram, 16:9 for YouTube, 9:16 for TikTok/Stories.
For film production storyboards, 16:9 or 2.39:1 matches common cinema formats.
Extreme aspect ratios (e.g., very wide panoramas) can cause composition issues — subjects may be stretched or off-center.
Not all models support all aspect ratios — only the ratios a model accepts appear as buttons in the modal.