Optimize your Instagram content with this guide.

Hi Creators! Instagram recently had it’s 10th birthday and if you’ve been on the platform for as long as I have, you’ve probably noticed a lot of changes over the years. From the Instagram icon itself to brand new features, IG keeps us on our toes with new updates every month! So, what are the new Instagram Image & Video Sizes for 2020?

Instagram Image & Video Size

When Instagram first launched, it was easy to upload an image, add some hashtags and post your content. While the social media channel once allowed only square images, it had to assert its dominance over other channels (RIP SnapChat) by adding more image sizes, video content, stories, IGTV, Instagram Live, and now, Reels!

Each of these features require content in different sizes and dimensions so it is important to stay up to date with the recommended requirements to optimize your amazing ShoutOuts. If you do not follow these guidelines, that’s okay however you risk the app automatically reformatting your image or video which could result in the quality being reduced. 

If you don’t know how to resize an image, we highly recommend checking out free programs like Canva. Canva allows you to upload your content and auto fit it to premade Instagram photo and video size templates. You can also create a design in Canva with custom dimensions. It’s very easy and it’s free!

So, how are busy content creators like yourself supposed to stay up to date on the latest Instagram image and video dimensions? That’s where we come in! In this blog, we will show you the complete list of updated Instagram image and video sizes for 2020 and end with some tips on which image sizes are best for your gorgeous content.

Instagram image & video sizes in pixels:

Profile photo: 110 x 100

Square image: 1080 x 1080 

Landscape image: 1080 x 566

Portrait image: 1080 x 1350

Story: 1080 x 1920

IGTV cover photo: 420 x 654

Photo thumbnails (on your profile feed): 161 x 161 

Instagram video sizes in pixels:

Square video: 600 x 600 minimum, 1080 x 1080 recommended

Landscape video: 600 x 315 minimum, 1080 x 608 recommended

Portrait video: 600 x 750 minimum, 1080 x 1350 recommended

Carousel videos: 600 x 700 minimum

Reels: 1080 x 1920

IGTV video: 1080 x 1920

Now that you have an updated list to refer to, let’s leave you with some pro tips and content inspiration from some of our creators!

When to post content in square size:

Anytime! The square image size has always been supported by Instagram and it’s the easiest to use. Also, this is the only photo size that can be shot and uploaded directly from the app. Square images are always appealing to the eye and are perfect for posting product shots. Non-photo content like informative text, loop giveaways, and memes are also great in square size. 

This square sized ShoutOut for Artingstall’s Dry Gin perfectly showcases the luxury bar gift set that was sent to @eclisse_creazioni. With over 3000 likes, this stunning ShoutOut really lit up the feed!

Instagram Image - Artingstall's Dry Gin

When to post content in portrait size:

Portrait size is ideal for high engagement as it takes up most of the users screen. This size is great for photos that include people (as in YOU). Whether you’re smiling in your “after” makeup tutorial photo or showcasing your OOTD, portrait size is awesome for close ups and selfies.

Our girl, @robynlee.97 blew us away with this perfectly executed and stylized ShoutOut for Artingstall’s Dry Gin. We love this close up shot of her holding the beautiful items she received in her gifted luxury bar set!

Instagram Image - Robyn Lee

When to post content in landscape size:

This is a great opportunity to show off eye-catching scenery, especially if you’re a travel blogger. Whether it’s a gorgeous sunset or the view of a city while sipping espresso in Vienna, landscape mode works very well for this type of content. 

Are you a beauty blogger who just scored a massive skin care haul from a brand? Try using landscape mode by creating a beautiful flat lay to showcase your products! Flat lays are a great way to get the attention of your followers, especially if they involve a giveaway. Laying out products to entice users to enter really shows what you have to offer. Flat lays are also great for foodies looking to show off their delicious charcuterie boards and dinner spreads. 

Check out this stunning ShoutOut in landscape size by @etsytment for Torill’s Table Waffle & Pancake Mix! This above and beyond pancake flat lay has the entire Creator.co team craving more content from this rising breakout star!

Instagram Image - Torill's Table

I hope you feel inspired by this content created by your fellow Creator.co Influencers! Now that you’re set up for success with Instagram image and video sizes, it’s time to get creative! Visit our Campaign Hub and find a new brand to collaborate with!