FFmpeg Rotate Video Not Working? Fixed!

Solve all the problem you might meet when using FFmpeg to rotate video. Also have some tips for you to rotate video with FFmpeg.
Elva updated on 2022-05-05 10:52:04

Many users might try FFmpeg rotate video. However, there are several issues with FFmpeg, especially when you want to rotate video in FFmpeg. It clearly shows that the program is not professional and will never be for years to come. Though they are not solely related to video rotation but still they cause the program to remain at the low end:
- The video codecs of FFmpeg are very hard to configure and often cause issues.
- The program is strictly unfriendly when it comes to its interface.
- Only high end users can get the best out of this program which is not fair.

If you encounter FFmpeg rotate video not working issues, no worry! here is the best solution for you.

Part 1: How to Use FFmpeg to Rotate Video

Follow the below steps to Rotate Video in FFmpeg:

Step 1. Download and install FFmpeg from https://www.ffmpeg.org/

Step 2. On the main interface make sure that the add button is pressed to import the video that is to be rotated.

Step 3. FFmpeg is a command line tool where commands are given to make sure that the work is done. The rotation commands are as follows. They can be given to rotate the video as required.

Vertical rotation: ffmpeg -i INPUT -vf vflip -c:a copy OUTPUT
Horizontal rotation: ffmpeg -i INPUT -vf hflip -c:a copy OUTPUT
90 degrees clockwise rotation: ffmpeg -i INPUT -vf transpose=1 -c:a copy OUTPUT
90 degrees counterclockwise rotation: ffmpeg -i INPUT -vf transpose=2 -c:a copy OUTPUT

ffmpeg rotate video


Part 2: How to Rotate Video with FFmpeg Alternative - Filmora Video Editor

Filmora Video Editor for Windows (or Filmora Video Editor for Mac) is one of the best programs to ensure that FFmpeg is replaced. There are several advantages of using this program. Some features are mentioned as under.

ffmpeg rotate
  • The usage is very simple and easy to understand. It will make sure that everyone uses the program.
  • The videos can also be rotated, flipped and joined using this program.
  • The advance editing tools such as PIP and transitions make this program precious.
  • Exporting video directly to common social media platforms has been made easy.
Free Download For Win 7 or later (64-bit)
Free Download For macOS 10.12 or later

Steps to rotate video using Filmora Video Editor

Step 1. Launch Filmora Video Editor

Download the program from the link mentioned above first. Run it so that the installation is completed. Launch the program to begin the process. It is also advised to register the program to get the maximum out of it. Choose "Full Feature Mode" to enter the main interface.

ffmpeg rotate video 90 degrees

Step 2. Import video to the program

Import the video that needs to be flipped. For this press the "IMPORT MEDIA" button on the main interface and select the video to be worked upon.

ffmpeg rotate 90 degrees

Step 3. Rotate videos

Either double click the video on the timeline or press the rotation icon. From the pop up that appears choose the rotation settings. Flip or rotation to a certain angle is also possible. Press OK once finished.

ffmpeg rotate video 90

Step 4. Export video

Press the export icon on top of the timeline. Choose the desired format to export video. Press OK to finish the process.

ffmpeg rotation
Free Download For Win 7 or later (64-bit)
Free Download For macOS 10.12 or later


Part 3: FFmpeg Rotate Video Not Working Fixed

Some common issues of FFmpeg are as follows:

Problem #1: FFmpeg Video rotation to 270 degrees show a tag associated to it.

Solution: Add the -vf "transpose=1" command after the rotation command to resolve the issue.

Problem #2: The audio of the rotated file does not sync with video in FFmpeg.

Solution: The video is broken. To resolve remove the first 30 seconds of video.

Problem #3: The scale option does not work with rotate on FFmpeg.

Solution: It is advised to update the scaling codecs to get the issue resolved.

Problem #4: The rotate metadata does not change when applied in FFmpeg.

Solution: The additional plugin i.e. AVCONV is required to be installed to get the work done easily.

Problem #5: Smart phone orientation on FFmpeg does not work.

Solution: It is advised to use Phil Harvey’s EXIF tool to view the original video orientation. The video is then to be rotated based on those parameters.

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