How to Make a Full-Length YouTube Video Not a Short
Learn how to create YouTube videos in horizontal 16:9 format over one minute with proper settings to avoid them being classified as Shorts.
How to Make a Full-Length YouTube Video (Not a Short)
Creating YouTube videos that are classified as standard full-length content — instead of being processed as Shorts — requires attention to format, duration, and upload settings. If you want to make video not a short YouTube style, this guide will walk you through the essential technical and creative steps to ensure your content meets the right criteria while also performing well in search.
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Understanding the Difference Between YouTube Shorts and Standard Videos
Before hitting record, understand the characteristics that differentiate these two formats.
YouTube Shorts Characteristics:
- Vertical aspect ratio (9:16)
- Duration of 60 seconds or less
- Typically filmed and uploaded via mobile devices
Standard YouTube Video Characteristics:
- Horizontal aspect ratio (16:9)
- Duration greater than 60 seconds
- Potential for Full HD (1080p) or 4K resolution and long-form storytelling
YouTube automatically tags videos as Shorts if they fit the vertical format and length criteria. Avoiding those factors ensures a standard classification.
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Set Your Recording Resolution to 16:9 Landscape Format
Recording in landscape orientation ensures YouTube interprets your upload as full-length content by default. Use professional or smartphone settings that match horizontal viewing standards.
Recommended Settings for Full-Length Videos:
| Resolution | Aspect Ratio | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1920x1080 (Full HD) | 16:9 | Best balance between quality and file size |
| 3840x2160 (4K) | 16:9 | Ideal for high-end productions and future-proofing |
| 1280x720 (HD) | 16:9 | Faster uploads but reduced clarity |
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Plan a Script or Outline That Exceeds 1 Minute
Length is critical: even a horizontal video under one minute might still be labeled a Short. Structure your script to comfortably pass the 60-second threshold.
Tips for Extending Your Video Duration:
- Provide thorough explanations instead of brief points.
- Include an intro and outro to frame the content.
- Use demonstrations or examples to naturally add time.
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Record with Camera Settings That Match Full HD or 4K Standards
Use a DSLR, mirrorless camera, or smartphone with settings that capture in 1080p or 4K. Switch to landscape mode before recording.
Pro tip: On mobile devices, double-check recording resolution and orientation to avoid vertical output.
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Edit in a Horizontal Frame and Avoid Vertical Cropping
Always edit within a horizontal 16:9 canvas, keeping your footage aligned with standard YouTube playback.
Example Adobe Premiere Pro export settings:
Sequence Settings:
- Frame Size: 1920x1080
- Pixel Aspect Ratio: Square Pixels (1.0)
- Fields: No Fields (Progressive Scan)
- Display Format: Timecode
Export Settings:
- Format: H.264
- Preset: YouTube 1080p Full HD---
Upload via YouTube Studio to Ensure Standard Classification
Use YouTube Studio on desktop for uploading. This avoids Shorts creation defaults.
Avoid:
- Uploading via the mobile Shorts camera feature
- Adding #Shorts in titles or descriptions
A horizontal video over one minute will be recognized as standard without the Shorts tag when uploaded correctly.
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Optimize Metadata for Full-Length Video SEO
Strong metadata boosts visibility for your full-length uploads.
Checklist:
- Title: Include your primary keyword (“make video not a short YouTube”)
- Description: Summarize content, integrate related keywords, and add links/resources
- Tags: Target relevant keywords audiences search for
Example:
Title: How to Make a Full-Length YouTube Video (Not a Short)
Description: Learn how to create YouTube videos in 16:9 format that exceed 1 minute, ensuring they upload as standard content. Follow these tips on recording, editing, and SEO optimization.
Tags: youtube tutorial, make video not a short youtube, 16:9 video, upload long video---
Design a Custom Thumbnail in Landscape Dimensions
A good thumbnail communicates both the topic and the full-length nature of your video.
Best Practices:
- Size: 1280x720 pixels, 16:9 ratio
- Maximum file size: 2MB
- Bold, high-contrast text
- Clear, relevant imagery
- Consistent branding colors or logos
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Enhance Engagement with Timestamps and Chapters
Incorporating timestamps in your description improves navigability and retention.
00:00 Introduction
00:45 Understanding Shorts vs Standard
02:10 Recording in 16:9
04:25 Editing for Full-Length
06:00 Upload Settings in YouTube Studio
08:15 SEO Optimization for Metadata---
Promote Through Playlists and Related Content
Boost reach with strategic linking and playlist integration.
Strategies:
- Add videos to thematic playlists
- Cross-promote in other video descriptions
- Use end screens to guide viewers to related content
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Track Analytics for Watch Time and Retention
Post-upload, monitor YouTube Analytics to refine strategies.
Focus on:
- Average View Duration
- Retention Graphs
- Traffic Sources
Iterating on these metrics will improve both engagement and ranking potential.
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Summary and Call to Action
In short, to make video not a short YouTube style:
- Film in horizontal 16:9 format
- Exceed the one-minute mark
- Upload through YouTube Studio without Shorts tags
- Optimize your metadata, thumbnail, and promotion
Apply these steps to consistently create and publish full-length YouTube content that ranks well, engages viewers, and supports long-term growth.
Ready to publish your next long-form video? Start implementing these strategies now for maximum impact.
