OKLAHOMA –A growing number of filmmakers are turning their cameras vertically as short-form content continues to reshape the entertainment industry, and Oklahoma is beginning to see the impact.
According to Oklahoma Department of Commerce Director Jeanette Stanton, four vertical productions have already filmed in the Oklahoma City and Guthrie areas, with six additional productions awarded to film in September and October.
Vertical series are created specifically for mobile viewing, with videos shot in portrait orientation rather than the traditional widescreen format. The content has gained popularity on platforms like TikTok, Instagram and other mobile-first streaming services as audiences increasingly consume entertainment on smartphones.
Oklahoma filmmaker Ryan Francis said the format reflects changing viewing habits while opening new creative opportunities.
“More people are consuming media on their phones than ever before, and I wanted to create content that fits this market,” Francis said. “The creative possibilities within this format allow for more dynamic storytelling and visual engagement.”
Francis is the owner and operator of Oklahoma City-based EverBright Pictures and works as a producer, writer, director and actor. He recently wrapped production on “A Secret Royal Romance,” a co-production between Nicely Entertainment and Canyon Productions filmed in Oklahoma City.
The series follows a sheltered princess who escapes to Chandler, Oklahoma, under a false identity to prove her independence before finding herself torn between royal responsibilities and a chance at love with a local researcher.
Francis said his goal is to create family-friendly stories that connect with audiences through relatable characters and engaging visuals.
He believes Oklahoma is well positioned to become a hub for vertical productions because of its diverse filming locations, supportive filmmaking community and competitive incentives offered through the Oklahoma Film + Music Office.
“Oklahoma offers a lot of unique advantages,” Francis said. “The state’s rich cultural backdrop and affordability make it an attractive location for filmmakers looking to create engaging vertical content.”
As more creators embrace the format, Francis expects Oklahoma’s vertical production industry to continue expanding.
“The growth of vertical productions could significantly enhance Oklahoma’s film industry by attracting more talent and production companies,” he said. “This, in turn, would create job opportunities in production, post-production, marketing and distribution while boosting the local economy.”
Francis said Oklahoma’s growing network of filmmakers, along with workshops and collaborative events, is helping build momentum for the industry.
“I’d like readers to understand that vertical content is not just a trend but a new way to experience storytelling,” he said. “I encourage everyone to explore this format and engage with our community of creators who are passionate about pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling.”
Francis shares updates on his productions through Instagram at @everbrightpix and @ryanjfrancis3, where he gives followers a behind-the-scenes look at the filmmaking process.
