Images for Instagram: sizes, formats and tips to stand out on the social network
Posted: Mon Jan 20, 2025 4:29 am
Content manager at Marketing4eCommerce
SWhen we talk about photography, the first social network that probably comes to mind is Instagram. The platform, which remains one of the most popular in the world, automatically optimizes the size of images. However, it is worth knowing the most appropriate measurements for each of your publications, especially if you are a professional photographer.
These are the most suitable image formats and sizes for Instagram:
Profile photo: The recommended size is at least 320 x 320 px . This does not mean that you have to upload it in that size, but it is recommended that it be higher resolution. Remember that the moj database are displayed in a circular format.
Square post photo: 1,080 × 1,080 px is recommended, and the maximum allowed size is 2,080 x 2,080 pixels.
Vertical publication photo: 1,080 x 1,350 px . The ratio is between 1.91:1 and 4:5.
Horizontal post photo: 1,080 × 566 px (566 px maximum so that the image is not cut off).
Size for Instagram stories: 1,080 x 1,920 px is the stipulation, although these images depend on the device on which they are displayed (each story adapts to the resolution of the device).
Video size: On Instagram, videos can be 1,080 x 608 px , but also 1,080 x 1,350 .
Instagram Reels size : Reels should be 1,080 x 1,920 px , and the recommended aspect ratio is 9:16. Also, keep in mind that Reels are cropped to 1:1 on profile and 4:5 on feed.
Screenshot of M4C's Instagram profile showing the different images that make it up framed and their measurements indicated. Profile image (320x320 px) stories and reels (1,080x1,920 px), square post (1,080x1,080px), vertical post (1,080x1,350px) and horizontal post (1,080x566px).
The importance of images on Instagram
In the digital age, Instagram has become a key platform for the promotion and growth of brands and businesses. With over 1 billion monthly active users, this social network is primarily focused on visuals, making image care crucial to stand out and capture the audience's attention.
The quality and aesthetics of your photos and videos not only impact brand perception, but also influence user engagement and the reach of your posts. To create them, you have hundreds of great design tools at your disposal. Canva and any of its alternatives can become your best ally to change the face of your channel.
Tips for your Instagram images
Beyond the recommended formats, measurements and weights, there are some key points that you should keep in mind:
Capture the user's attention
Competition on Instagram is fierce, with countless brands and users vying for audience attention. High-quality images are essential to capturing viewer interest within seconds. A crisp, well-composed, and visually appealing image can set itself apart from posts appearing in the feed, encouraging users to stop and explore more about the content or brand.
Building a coherent brand identity
Instagram image aesthetics are an extension of brand identity . Maintaining a consistent visual style helps build a recognizable and professional brand image. Colors, tone, and style of photos should align with brand values and personality. A cohesive Instagram profile builds trust and loyalty among followers, making them more likely to engage and share content.
Increase interaction and engagement
Engagement is a key indicator of success on Instagram. Posts with quality images tend to receive more likes, comments, and shares. Additionally, Instagram’s algorithm favors content that generates high engagement, meaning visually appealing posts are more likely to appear in the Explore section and reach a wider audience. Using eye-catching and authentic images not only improves a post’s visibility, but also encourages active community participation.
Tell a story and connect emotionally
Images are a powerful tool for telling stories and connecting emotionally with an audience. Through well-crafted photographs, brands can communicate complex messages in a simple and effective way. Visual storytelling allows brands to share experiences, values, and emotions that resonate with their audience. This emotional connection is essential for building long-lasting and meaningful relationships with followers.
Optimize for conversion
In addition to improving the profile aesthetic, quality images can increase the conversion rate . Engaging visual content can drive users to take specific actions, such as visiting a website, making a purchase, or registering for an event. Clear and persuasive images are more effective in guiding the user through the conversion process and achieving marketing goals.
Now that you have mastered Instagram formats, we encourage you to also learn about image sizes on other social networks . Remember that the content you create and how you present it will influence how your audience perceives you.
SWhen we talk about photography, the first social network that probably comes to mind is Instagram. The platform, which remains one of the most popular in the world, automatically optimizes the size of images. However, it is worth knowing the most appropriate measurements for each of your publications, especially if you are a professional photographer.
These are the most suitable image formats and sizes for Instagram:
Profile photo: The recommended size is at least 320 x 320 px . This does not mean that you have to upload it in that size, but it is recommended that it be higher resolution. Remember that the moj database are displayed in a circular format.
Square post photo: 1,080 × 1,080 px is recommended, and the maximum allowed size is 2,080 x 2,080 pixels.
Vertical publication photo: 1,080 x 1,350 px . The ratio is between 1.91:1 and 4:5.
Horizontal post photo: 1,080 × 566 px (566 px maximum so that the image is not cut off).
Size for Instagram stories: 1,080 x 1,920 px is the stipulation, although these images depend on the device on which they are displayed (each story adapts to the resolution of the device).
Video size: On Instagram, videos can be 1,080 x 608 px , but also 1,080 x 1,350 .
Instagram Reels size : Reels should be 1,080 x 1,920 px , and the recommended aspect ratio is 9:16. Also, keep in mind that Reels are cropped to 1:1 on profile and 4:5 on feed.
Screenshot of M4C's Instagram profile showing the different images that make it up framed and their measurements indicated. Profile image (320x320 px) stories and reels (1,080x1,920 px), square post (1,080x1,080px), vertical post (1,080x1,350px) and horizontal post (1,080x566px).
The importance of images on Instagram
In the digital age, Instagram has become a key platform for the promotion and growth of brands and businesses. With over 1 billion monthly active users, this social network is primarily focused on visuals, making image care crucial to stand out and capture the audience's attention.
The quality and aesthetics of your photos and videos not only impact brand perception, but also influence user engagement and the reach of your posts. To create them, you have hundreds of great design tools at your disposal. Canva and any of its alternatives can become your best ally to change the face of your channel.
Tips for your Instagram images
Beyond the recommended formats, measurements and weights, there are some key points that you should keep in mind:
Capture the user's attention
Competition on Instagram is fierce, with countless brands and users vying for audience attention. High-quality images are essential to capturing viewer interest within seconds. A crisp, well-composed, and visually appealing image can set itself apart from posts appearing in the feed, encouraging users to stop and explore more about the content or brand.
Building a coherent brand identity
Instagram image aesthetics are an extension of brand identity . Maintaining a consistent visual style helps build a recognizable and professional brand image. Colors, tone, and style of photos should align with brand values and personality. A cohesive Instagram profile builds trust and loyalty among followers, making them more likely to engage and share content.
Increase interaction and engagement
Engagement is a key indicator of success on Instagram. Posts with quality images tend to receive more likes, comments, and shares. Additionally, Instagram’s algorithm favors content that generates high engagement, meaning visually appealing posts are more likely to appear in the Explore section and reach a wider audience. Using eye-catching and authentic images not only improves a post’s visibility, but also encourages active community participation.
Tell a story and connect emotionally
Images are a powerful tool for telling stories and connecting emotionally with an audience. Through well-crafted photographs, brands can communicate complex messages in a simple and effective way. Visual storytelling allows brands to share experiences, values, and emotions that resonate with their audience. This emotional connection is essential for building long-lasting and meaningful relationships with followers.
Optimize for conversion
In addition to improving the profile aesthetic, quality images can increase the conversion rate . Engaging visual content can drive users to take specific actions, such as visiting a website, making a purchase, or registering for an event. Clear and persuasive images are more effective in guiding the user through the conversion process and achieving marketing goals.
Now that you have mastered Instagram formats, we encourage you to also learn about image sizes on other social networks . Remember that the content you create and how you present it will influence how your audience perceives you.