How to Change FaceTime to Landscape on Mac: Easily switch your FaceTime calls to landscape mode on your Mac

Changing FaceTime to landscape mode on a Mac is a straightforward process, but it does depend on how you and the other call participant are using the app. By default, FaceTime on Mac automatically adjusts the video orientation based on how the camera is positioned. Macs typically have fixed webcams at the top of the screen, so the video appears in landscape orientation by default. However, there are certain scenarios where either your video or the video from another participant might appear in portrait mode—usually when the other person is using an iPhone or iPad held vertically.

If you want your view or the call window to be in landscape, here’s what to know and how to adjust the experience:

1. Your Own Camera: The Mac’s built-in camera provides a landscape view automatically. If you use an external webcam, make sure it’s physically positioned horizontally.
2. Other Participants: If someone on a mobile device appears vertical, ask them to rotate their device horizontally to switch to landscape mode. FaceTime will adjust automatically.
3. Adjusting Window Size: You can maximize the FaceTime window or drag its corners to make it larger, giving your call a more landscape-oriented look on your screen, though this doesn't change the actual camera orientation.
4. Screen Sharing and Layout: For meetings, consider using apps or innovative room planning tools that help visualize layouts and interactions for collaborative calls in landscape settings.

Ultimately, on a Mac, FaceTime will default to landscape for your camera, and you have limited manual control over orientation. The real switch happens on mobile devices—ask participants to rotate their screens for landscape if that's important for your meeting or conversation experience.

Tips 1:

As an interior designer, I often advise clients to consider video call setups when designing home offices. Position your Mac or webcam in a location with good lighting and a visually appealing, uncluttered background. Arranging furniture with thoughtful orientation can ensure every FaceTime call—landscape or not—feels professional and comfortable.

FAQ

Q: Why does my FaceTime video appear in portrait mode on Mac?

A: Typically, FaceTime video on Mac is landscape by default. If you’re seeing portrait orientation, it’s likely the other participant on a mobile device is holding their device upright.

Q: Can I force FaceTime to stay in landscape mode on my Mac?

A: The Mac’s camera produces landscape video natively. Orientation changes are based on the position of cameras on external devices.

Q: If I rotate my MacBook, will FaceTime switch to portrait?

A: No, FaceTime does not rotate the camera feed on MacBooks or iMacs, as the webcam is fixed above the screen.

Q: How can I make the video window bigger while on a FaceTime call?

A: Click and drag the window corners, or click the green “maximize” button to enlarge the FaceTime window, making it easier to view in a landscape format.

Q: Can FaceTime support split screen or side-by-side layouts on Mac?

A: Yes, you can use macOS’s Split View to have FaceTime open alongside another app for multitasking during calls.