How To Set A Background Video Up Using HTML5 and CSS {Updated}
In this tutorial I will show you how you can set a video up in the background of you file using HTML5 and CSS. A background video can be a cool effect on your site if used correctly.
The example in the site comes from Jinn, a new movie in theater April 4th. The video I demonstrate using video from their site. The examples files from the video are below but you will need to replace the video and still frame out with your own image.
Download sample background video with layers files
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are some related articles or resources about background videos and web design?
“Some related articles and resources about using background videos in web design include tips for implementing these elements effectively on websites and guidance on how to create a fullscreen HTML5 video background playlist.”
What CSS properties and techniques are used to create a fullscreen video background?
Creating a fullscreen video background on a website can be effectively accomplished using a few CSS properties and techniques. To ensure that the video covers the entire screen, you should set the video element to have a minimum width (`min-width`) and height (`min-height`) of 100%. Additionally, it’s helpful to set the width and height to exceed 100% to ensure complete coverage, which may involve values like `width: 100vw` and `height: 100vh`.
To center the video properly, you can employ the `object-fit: cover;` property, which ensures that the video covers the available area without losing its aspect ratio. Centering can be further refined using CSS properties such as `position: absolute;`, `top: 50%;`, `left: 50%;`, `transform: translate(-50%, -50%);`. These ensure that the video remains centered regardless of the screen size.
For mobile devices, a different approach is needed since many mobile browsers do not support autoplay for videos and may show a default play button. To provide a seamless user experience on mobile, it’s often advisable to replace the video with a static background image. This can be achieved by utilizing media queries to apply `display: none;` to the video and replacing it with an image when viewed on smaller screens. It’s important to use the same image as the video’s poster attribute so that there is visual continuity. This technique prevents unnecessary video data loading on devices where the video won’t play automatically.
These CSS techniques and properties ensure a responsive and efficient fullscreen video background suitable for both desktop and mobile platforms.
How can you adjust the aspect ratio of a video background to fit the browser viewport?
To adjust the aspect ratio of a video background and fit it within the browser viewport without leaving white space, follow these steps:
- Understand Aspect Ratios: The aspect ratio of your video element may not match the video source. For example, a 16:9 video might not fit the browser’s viewport, which can vary in size and shape.
- Use Media Queries: Use media queries in your CSS to adjust the video element’s size based on the viewport. Make the video larger than the viewport to ensure it covers the entire area.
- Adjust Video Size: Depending on whether the browser viewport is portrait or landscape, increase the video’s width or height. This ensures full coverage without gaps.
- Center the Video: After resizing, the video may not be centered. Use negative margins to help center it within the viewport and prevent misalignment.
- Ensure Full-Screen Coverage: These techniques will stretch or contract the video to achieve full-screen coverage, improving the visual appeal of your site.
By following these steps, you can adjust the video’s aspect ratio to fit any browser viewport while preserving its aesthetic integrity.
Why is a video background effective in drawing attention on a website?
Video backgrounds on websites are highly effective in capturing visitors’ attention due to their dynamic and engaging nature. When users encounter moving visuals, they are more likely to pause and engage with the content. This not only increases the duration of their visit but also enhances the likelihood of them interacting with additional elements and information on the webpage.
