What is a video collage called?
Depending on the layout: a split screen, a side-by-side video, picture in picture, a video grid or a multi-screen video. "Video collage" covers all of them.
Guide · with a free collage maker
What is a video collage?
Several clips and photos in one frame, playing at the same time. How that differs from a slideshow, a montage or a carousel, and when to use each.
A video collage is a single video in which several clips, and often photos, are shown at once, each in its own part of the frame, all playing together. Split screens, picture in picture, grids and scrapbook-style layouts are all video collages.
It is easy to mix up with a slideshow (one picture after another) or a montage (clips cut in sequence). The difference matters because each suits a different job; the table below sums it up.
How to make one
Collect the clips and photos
Two to nine items that belong together: one event, one trip, one product from several angles.
Put them in a layout
Select Add photos and videos above; a template is chosen to fit how many you picked.
Export one video
Select Export, then Export video. The collage is a normal MP4 that plays anywhere.
Collage, slideshow, montage or carousel?
- Video collage: several items on screen at once. Best for comparisons, reactions, "a day in…" and showing many moments in a short time.
- Slideshow: one photo after another, usually with music. Best for a large set of photos and long viewing, such as a party screen.
- Montage: clips cut one after another to music. Best for building energy or telling a story in sequence.
- Carousel: an Instagram or Facebook post people swipe through. Best when each picture deserves the full screen.
They combine well: a collage can open a carousel, and a montage can cut to a collage for its finale.
Common types of video collage
- Split screen: two or three clips side by side or stacked.
- Picture in picture: a small clip over a full-frame one.
- Video grid: four or more equal cells.
- Before and after: two labelled halves.
- Scrapbook styles: polaroids, film strips and magazine pages.
Sizes for each app
- Instagram Stories and Reels, TikTok, YouTube Shorts: 9:16, 1080×1920.
- Instagram feed: 3:4 (1080×1440) or 4:5 (1080×1350).
- Facebook feed, WhatsApp, profile grids: 1:1 (1080×1080) or 4:5.
- YouTube, presentations, TVs: 16:9, 1920×1080.
Video collage questions
Is a video collage the same as a slideshow?
No. A slideshow shows items one at a time; a collage shows several together. With Show one by one, a collage can reveal items in turn but keeps the earlier ones on screen.
Can a video collage include photos?
Yes. Photos sit in their cells for the whole video, often with a slow zoom so they feel alive.
What format is a video collage saved in?
Usually MP4 (H.264 video, AAC sound), which plays on every phone, computer and social app.
How long is a typical video collage?
Ten to thirty seconds for social media; up to a few minutes for gifts and events.