Use 3:4 for a tall Instagram feed photo, 1:1 for a square composition, and 9:16 for Stories or Reels. The best ratio depends on where the image will appear; a taller canvas gives the feed post more vertical room, while square artwork is easier to reuse across placements.
| Format | Working size | Choose it when |
|---|---|---|
| 3:4 feed photo | 1080 × 1440 | You want the tallest currently supported Instagram photo shape. |
| 4:5 feed photo | 1080 × 1350 | You want a slightly shorter portrait canvas with room around the subject. |
| 1:1 feed photo | 1080 × 1080 | The original composition is square or needs to work in square layouts. |
| 9:16 Story or Reel | 1080 × 1920 | The image or video is designed for a full-screen vertical placement. |
Does a taller image get more reach?
Aspect ratio changes how much of the screen a post occupies; it does not guarantee distribution or engagement. Keep the subject clear at the feed size, and preview the profile grid and feed crop before posting. Instagram currently keeps supported feed photos between 1.91:1 and 3:4 at up to 1080 pixels wide. See Instagram's photo-resolution guidance for the current range.
Where the common crops go wrong
A 2:3 camera portrait is taller than 3:4, so a direct upload can lose part of the top or bottom. Place the full photo inside a 3:4 or 4:5 canvas and use margins if every pixel matters. For Stories and Reels, keep captions, faces and product details clear of the interface at the top and bottom edges.