Aspect ratios used to display video streams within a graphical user interface (GUI) of a video conference are dynamically adjusted based on events detected during the video conference. According to one approach, during a video conference between a first device and a second device, a first video stream from the first device and a second video stream from the second device are both displayed within the GUI using an initial aspect ratio. Based on the first video stream, an event corresponding to a change in a number of people participating in the video conference from the first device is determined. Based on the event, an adjusted aspect ratio to use for displaying the first video stream within the GUI is determined. The first video stream is displayed within the GUI using the adjusted aspect ratio while the second video stream remains displayed within the GUI using the initial aspect ratio.