Choosing the right dimensions for your Instagram posts has never been more critical. With the platform shifting towards vertical-friendly content and new grid formats, you need to stay ahead.
In this article, you will learn what dimensions to use for feed posts, carousels, stories and Reels, plus tips to optimise your visuals for the new 3:4 grid and boost engagement.
What Are Instagram Post Dimensions?
For years, Instagram relied heavily on the classic square format—images sized at 1080×1080 pixels. But as users increasingly favour vertical formats, Instagram’s layout evolved.
Now you’re allowed multiple aspect ratios and must pay attention to how your post appears both in the feed and on your profile grid. The term “post dimensions” refers to both the pixel size (e.g., 1080 × 1350) and the aspect ratio (e.g., 4:5) of the image or video you upload.
Why Correct Dimensions Matter
When you upload an image or video in the wrong size, Instagram might crop it, shrink it, or leave unwanted borders. This reduces visual impact. Using the correct dimensions ensures:
- Your content appears sharp on all devices (using the optimal resolution).
- No important part of your image or text gets cut off.
- Your grid preview remains consistent, avoiding broken aesthetics.
- Better engagement because your visuals look professional.
Key Feed Post Dimensions
Here are current recommendations for feed posts (photos or videos that appear in your profile grid and main feed):
- Square orientation (1:1 ratio) – Use 1080 × 1080 pixels. This remains a safe choice.
- Vertical orientation / portrait (4:5 ratio) – Use 1080 × 1350 pixels. This gives more height and is now recommended.
- Landscape orientation (approx. 1.91:1 ratio) – Use 1080 × 566 pixels. Use this for wide compositions.
- Alternate vertical (3:4 ratio) – Some users upload 1080 × 1440 pixels, though the 4:5 ratio is more widely supported.
The New Grid Preview Format
Instagram’s profile grid preview has moved away from exclusively squares. The grid now displays posts in a taller format — roughly 3:4 ratio (for example 1012×1350 pixels in preview). However, the upload limit remains 4:5 max in many cases. That means you should upload in 4:5 ratio (1080×1350) and assume that the grid may crop to ~3:4 for preview. This subtle shift requires content creators to centre important elements and keep key visuals within a “safe” zone to avoid unwanted cropping.
Best Dimensions for Carousels
Carousel posts (multiple images/videos in one feed post) use the same dimension rules as single posts, but with additional considerations:
- Set your first image in the preferred orientation (e.g., 1080×1350).
- Instagram will display all slides according to the first slide’s ratio unless you choose “mixed” layout.
- If you include videos in the carousel, Instagram may default everything to portrait (1080×1350) to fit.
- Ensure consistency so the carousel doesn’t feel disjointed.
Stories and Reels Dimensions
Stories and Reels occupy full-screen vertical space on mobile devices. The optimal size for both is 1080 × 1920 pixels (9:16 ratio). Key points:
- Leave safe margins: for Stories, text and logos should stay within the central ~1080×1610 pixels to avoid being cut off.
- In your profile grid thumbnail, Reels may display in a cropped vertical size (often 1080×1440).
- For Reels, consider the cover image carefully because it does influence how your profile grid appears.
Profile Photo and Ad Sizes
Although slightly tangential to “post dimensions,” be aware of these details:
- Profile picture: upload at 320 × 320 pixels (Instagram stores at this size though displays at smaller size) and keep key elements centred because the display is circular.
- Ads: though they follow many of the same ratios (square, portrait, landscape), each ad type may allow higher resolution (for example Stories ads 1440×2560 pixels).
How to Choose the Right Ratio for Your Content
To decide between square, portrait, or landscape for a given post, consider:
- The content subject: A tall subject (e.g., standing person) works better with portrait.
- Device usage: Most of your audience views Instagram on mobile; vertical formats dominate.
- Feed layout: Portrait posts occupy more screen real estate in the feed and tend to capture more attention.
- Grid preview: With the newer 3:4 grid, vertical content looks better aligned.
Technical Tips to Upload Without Mistakes
- Always upload images with a width of 1080 pixels. Instagram will downscale images wider than this.
- Avoid uploading images smaller than 320 pixels wide because Instagram may upscale them, causing blur.
- Use high-quality JPG or PNG for images; video uploads should be MP4 or MOV.
- Keep your aspect ratio within the supported range: minimum ~1.91:1 (landscape) and maximum 4:5 (portrait) for feed posts.
- For Stories/Reels: stick to 9:16 ratio.
Design and Composition Tips for the New Grid Format
Since Instagram’s grid preview now shows a taller rectangle rather than a simple square, you should:
- Place your primary text or subject in the central area so it remains visible in both feed and grid.
- Keep top and bottom safe zones clear of critical elements because cropping may vary.
- When designing templates in tools like Canva or Photoshop, add padding around the edges.
- If you’re posting a puzzle-feed or split-image layout, evaluate how each segment appears in the updated preview (3:4) to avoid misalignment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Uploading images in 1:1 ratio when a vertical format would maximise visibility.
- Using ultra-wide landscape images that appear as small strips in mobile feed.
- Placing text or logos too close to edges — risk of being cropped in grid preview.
- Mixing inconsistent dimensions in carousels, causing posts to appear uneven.
- Ignoring the thumbnail of a Reel — a weak cover image may reduce profile engagement.
Why 2025 Demands Vertical-First Thinking
Recent platform updates reflect how users consume content: more scrolls, more vertical interaction, more mobile time. The shift from square to vertical aligns with this behaviour. Brands and creators who adopt portrait formats (4:5 for feed; 9:16 for Stories/Reels) and optimise for the new grid will gain a competitive edge and keep their visuals looking modern and professional.
Practical Workflow Summary for Your Next Instagram Post
- Decide orientation: square (1:1), portrait (4:5), or landscape (1.91:1) based on subject and placement.
- Set your canvas to 1080 pixels wide. If portrait, height = 1350 pixels. If square, height = 1080. If landscape, height ~566 pixels.
- Design your content with central safe zone in mind (to ensure grid preview works).
- Export in high resolution, correct format (JPG/PNG for photo; MP4/MOV for video).
- For Stories/Reels: set canvas to 1080×1920 pixels (9:16) and keep important elements inside central ~1080×1610 pixels.
- Upload to Instagram; preview grid if possible, adjust cover for Reels.
- Monitor performance and track if vertical formats outperform square versions in your niche.
Conclusion
Mastering the correct dimensions for your Instagram posts is essential in 2025. You now know the optimal sizes for feed posts (square, portrait, landscape), carousels, stories, reels and profile images. You also know how Instagram’s grid preview is now taller (3:4) and how to design accordingly.
By using 1080 pixels width and the recommended heights, positioning your key visuals inside central safe zones, and maintaining consistent aspect ratio across your posts and carousels, you’ll ensure your content appears sharp, professional and optimised for mobile audiences. Apply these best practices and your Instagram visuals will stand out and perform better.