In this article
Plan each required image shape before generating a campaign. Keep the subject and visual identity consistent, but give each layout its own composition and space for copy. A landscape image that works beautifully on its own may lose the product, gesture or message when forced into a narrow portrait crop.
Write the layout brief before the prompt
Aspect ratio describes width relative to height: 16:9 is wide, 1:1 is square and 9:16 is tall. It does not specify pixel dimensions or guarantee quality. Adobe's aspect-ratio guide illustrates how changing the format affects the composition. Available choices depend on the selected tool and model.
List the actual destinations, required dimensions and intended message. Treat landscape, square and portrait as three layouts to solve, rather than assuming they are interchangeable exports. Check current destination requirements before delivery; this article does not prescribe a universal social-media size or safe zone.
Protect what makes the subject recognizable
Imagine a campaign for a red backpack. The front zipper, both straps and the contact shadow are essential to the concept. Mark those as protected details in the brief. Leave enough breathing room for them to survive the intended crop, including the space needed for any gesture or direction of attention.
For landscape, you might put the backpack on the right and reserve the left for a headline. For square, reduce competing background elements. For portrait, stack the subject and copy vertically. These are design options to test, not fixed placement rules. A background that must become much wider or taller may need a different composition.
Generate a family of compositions, not accidental copies
Keep the visual constants explicit: red fabric backpack, soft side light, pale stone surface, quiet background. Then adapt subject position and empty space for each shape. A working brief could read: “Show the complete backpack and both straps, with a grounded shadow. Keep the headline area visually quiet. No lettering.”