Let's figure out what the correct image size for Instagram is and how to make each post beautiful.
It would seem: what's difficult about posting a photo on Instagram*? You create a post, choose a shot from the gallery, upload it — and admire the result. Or you don't admire it: if the image is of the wrong size, it will automatically be cropped or stretched. This means it will lose its appeal. So let's remember the important parameters — and do everything beautifully.
Image Parameters
Each image has three important parameters: its size, measured in pixels (further — px), aspect ratio, denoted as [width]:[height], and image weight in megabytes.
When Instagram* first appeared, all images were formatted in a square with an aspect ratio of 1:1. But later, developers made it so the image size and format could vary. However, if the photo doesn't meet the necessary criteria, the system will adjust it to the standard format.
Image Sizes for Instagram*
The maximum photo weight should not exceed 30 MB.
Avatar Size
Optimal — 320x320 px.
Format — JPG and PNG.
Highlights Icon Size
Optimal — 150x150 px.
Format — JPG and PNG.
Post Image Size
Optimal — 1080x1080 px.
Format — JPG and PNG.
Story Image Size
Optimal — 1080x1920 px.
Format — JPG and PNG.
Targeted Advertising Image Size
- in the feed — scale 1:1, from 1080x1080
- in explore and stories — scale 9:16, from 1080x1080
Avatars on Instagram*
Avatar photos on Instagram* can be larger or smaller than the recommended 320x320 px. However, the image will still be adjusted by the network to this value. And if the image was initially too small, it will stretch, and the image will blur. By the way, don't forget that avatars on this network are round, so choose images that will look good in this format.
Highlight Icons on Instagram*
Highlights are relevant "eternal" stories pinned under the profile header. They allow you to convey important information to subscribers. Highlight images are taken from archived stories. It's best to place icons in files 1080x1920 px — they will automatically be adjusted to the required size.
Images for Posts on Instagram*
Initially, all images on Instagram were cropped to a square, but now the social network does not restrict users in choosing the height and width of images. However, it is necessary to maintain the aspect ratio so that the composition is preserved and the image is reflected exactly as you intended. Instagram* post images have the following requirements:
- format 1:1 — 1080x1080 px;
- format 4:5 — 1080x1350 px;
- format 1.91:1 — 1080x566 px.
Note:
Photos with an aspect ratio of 1:1 are best suited for still life, static portraits, and top-down shots.
Photos with an aspect ratio of 1.91:1 are ideal for landscapes or dynamic reportage shots.
Photos with an aspect ratio of 4:5 are most often used for portraits and posters, as well as landscapes and still lifes.
Images for Stories on Instagram*
The aspect ratio for story images should be 9:16, the minimum size is 600x1067, the optimal size is 1080x1920 px, and the weight is no more than 20 MB. If the image does not match the optimal size, it can be placed on a suitable color background.
Images for Targeted Advertising on Instagram*
For targeted advertising, Meta* sets specific requirements. For the feed, the advertising image must have an aspect ratio of 1:1 and a size from 1080x1080 px. And for explore and stories — a ratio of 9:16 and a size from 1080x1080 px.
By the way, if you're preparing an advertising post for publication, use the photo and video editor Postmypost. Here, there are all the tools for those who love to tinker and get creative when creating a unique post. For those who value every minute, they can use one of the many ready-made design templates.
* Meta Platforms Inc, which owns the social networks Facebook, Instagram, is recognized as extremist. The company's activities are banned in Russia.
