Where resolution defines the measurement of total screen capacity, aspect ratio defines a determination of scale. The term expresses a relationship of width to height as a ratio. For instance, a common aspect ratio 4:3 indicates that there are 4 inches in width for every 3 inches of height. The ratio means the same thing with yards, feet, or millimeters, etc. Aspect ratio means the exact same for displaying either photos or video clips. The definition predates the computer age.
In order to recreate a photo properly, the display’s aspect ratio should ideally equal the aspect ratio of the photo produced from the electronic camera. If the two aspect ratios don’t match, the display can stretch the image, or alternatively it can chop edges off of the picture to make it fit (called cropping). Another choice is often to resize the image, keeping its original aspect ratio, in order to fit either the width or height of the screen. This leaves unused portions of the screen at the two ends of the other (perpendicular) axis.
Most popular digital camera models create 4:3 pictures. The very same aspect ratio was used in old model television sets. Newer widescreen television sets employ either an aspect ratio of 16:10 or 16:9. These aspect ratios permit the familiar panoramic effect. Achieving a panoramic view still needs a camera that employs the same aspect ratio. Some digital cameras and frames use other aspect ratios. These are uncommon in typical consumer electronics. They are more used by experts and hard core enthusiasts. The salient point is to steer clear of unconventional aspect ratios if you lack a specific need.