# Portrait, landscape & square pages

Official GBMaps guide for the classic map maker. VectorMaps has a different interface.

Source: https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=orientation
Updated: 2026-09-29

Page shape and key layout are separate choices. A landscape page can still have a tall, portrait key.

[Watch tutorial video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i4pMhr9bAb4)

Some videos show an earlier layout. The written instructions below describe the current controls; this is a guide, not a video transcript.

![Portrait, landscape & square pages — current GBMaps controls](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/help/images/orientation.png)

The current panel, with its options expanded where useful. Select a numbered circle to read its explanation.

## 1. Portrait

Gives you a tall page. This often suits a map of Great Britain or a north–south territory. After switching, check the map framing, title and key in Print View.

[Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=orientation#orientation--portrait)

## 2. Landscape

Gives you a wide page. It can work well for an east–west region or a presentation slide. Move and resize the map and key to make good use of the width.

[Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=orientation#orientation--landscape)

## 3. Square

Uses a square page for a more balanced local map or a square graphic. Check the edges before exporting; changing the page shape does not decide the best composition for you.

[Open this step](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=orientation#orientation--square)

## Related guides

- [Key Settings: layout & visibility](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=key)
- [Move, zoom & frame the map](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=map-gestures)
- [How to download your map as PDF, PNG, SVG or PowerPoint](https://www.gbmaps.com/mcs/map-help.php?topic=downloads)