Essential Instagram Image Sizes for Perfect Visuals
Key Things to Know
  • Optimal Aspect Ratios for Different Post Types: Instagram favors specific aspect ratios like 1:1 for square posts and 9:16 for stories and reels, ensuring content fits well on the app.

  • High-Resolution Uploads: Uploading images at Instagram’s recommended resolutions helps avoid pixelation from compression, keeping your visuals sharp.

Using the correct image sizes on Instagram ensures that your posts display beautifully and retain their quality, keeping your followers engaged with high-quality visuals. Here’s a quick guide on ideal dimensions for each type of Instagram post.


Profile Picture

  • Recommended Size: 320 x 320 pixels
  • Display: Appears as a 110 x 110-pixel circle
Tip: Use a high-resolution image, centered so that key elements aren’t cropped out by the circular frame.

Feed Posts

Square Photos

  • Size: 1080 x 1080 pixels (1:1 aspect ratio)
Tip: This balanced format is the Instagram classic and displays beautifully in your feed.

Portrait Photos

  • Size: 1080 x 1350 pixels (4:5 aspect ratio)
Tip: Portraits are taller, allowing you to take up more vertical space, making your post more prominent.

Landscape Photos

  • Size: 1080 x 566 pixels (1.91:1 aspect ratio)
Tip: Landscape images are shorter and ideal for wide visuals. Make sure details aren’t too small due to the reduced height.

Instagram Stories

  • Size: 1080 x 1920 pixels (9:16 aspect ratio)
Tip: Full-screen visuals create an immersive experience. Place important text and details away from the edges to avoid cropping.

Reels and IGTV Cover Photos

  • Size: 1080 x 1920 pixels (9:16 aspect ratio)
  • Cover Image: 420 x 654 pixels when displayed in-feed
Tip: Reels use the same vertical format as Stories, so center important elements to ensure visibility across all previews.

Carousel posts allow multiple images, so consider keeping the aspect ratio consistent within each carousel. This helps create a cohesive look and seamless scrolling experience for viewers.


Maintaining Image Quality on Instagram

Upload in High Resolution

To ensure your images maintain their quality, always upload high-resolution files. Instagram compresses images during upload, so starting with the highest quality helps reduce visible loss.

Use Recommended File Types

For best quality, use JPEG for photos and PNG for graphics or text-heavy images. These file types preserve clarity and color better on Instagram’s platform.

What are the best dimensions for Instagram feed photos?
Square images should be 1080 x 1080 pixels, while portraits are best at 1080 x 1350 pixels. For landscapes, use 1080 x 566 pixels.
Why do my Instagram images look blurry after upload?
Instagram compresses images, especially if they’re low-resolution. Uploading images at recommended sizes and in JPEG or PNG format helps maintain quality.
Can I use the same image size for all types of Instagram posts?
Not ideally. Using tailored dimensions for stories, reels, and feed posts ensures your images display correctly without cropping or distortion.

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