How to change the aspect ratio on iPhone camera (16:9, 4:3, square)
iPhone photos default to 4:3. You can switch to 16:9 or square before you shoot, or crop to any shape afterward.
The fix
Change the aspect ratio before you shoot
- 1
Open the Camera app and choose Photo mode.
- 2
Open the camera controls.
In iOS 26, tap the menu button at the top of the screen, or swipe up on the camera modes. On older versions, tap the arrow at the top.
- 3
Tap Aspect (or the 4:3 button).
- 4
Choose 1:1, 4:3 or 16:9 and take your photo.
The fix
Keep your aspect ratio as the default
- 1
Open Settings › Camera › Preserve Settings.
- 2
Turn on Creative Controls. The camera now remembers your last aspect ratio.
The fix
Change the shape of a photo you already took
- 1
Open the photo in Photos and tap Edit.
- 2
Tap Crop, then the aspect ratio button at the top.
- 3
Choose a ratio such as Square, 16:9 or 5:7, adjust the frame and tap Done.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my iPhone camera go back to 4:3?
The Camera app resets to its default each time unless Preserve Settings is on. Go to Settings › Camera › Preserve Settings and turn on Creative Controls.
Can I change the aspect ratio of a video?
iPhone videos record in 16:9. To change the shape afterward, open the video in Photos, tap Edit, then Crop, and choose a ratio.
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