Instagram Post Size Guide

Instagram has evolved dramatically, shifting from a simple photo-sharing app to a video-first platform that’s reshaping how we consume content. With over 2.35 billion users and 38.1% of marketing experts recognizing short-form video as the most influential format, understanding the correct Instagram post size is no longer optional—it’s essential. 

Planning your Instagram content strategy isn’t enough—you need to understand the specific Instagram video dimensions and Instagram aspect ratios for your videos to optimize performance. There are several types of video maker tools offered by Promo.com that you can utilize for Instagram content creation. Having an Instagram video marketing strategy is now more crucial than ever for boosting your online presence. 

What’s New in Instagram: Major Updates You Need to Know

Consider this: five million videos were posted within the first 24 hours after the launch of Instagram Video. With the high engagement rate videos bring on Instagram, most brands are embracing this content format—and you don’t want to be left behind. 

As Instagram continues to evolve, updates in layout and discovery also influence Instagram post dimensions, making it important for creators to stay aligned with the platform’s latest format changes. 

Algorithm Revolution: AI Takes the Wheel 

Instagram has officially moved away from a single “algorithm” and now uses advanced AI models to rank content. These systems track how users behave—what they like, share, save, or skip—and serve content accordingly, regardless of Instagram post format or content type. 

Key Algorithm Changes: 

• Original content gets prioritized over reposts, with labels now added to reposted content 

• Shares have become a top-ranking signal—content that gets sent to friends performs better 

• Watch time, likes per reach, and sends per reach are the top-ranking factors 

• Hashtags no longer work as a primary discovery tool—focus on keywords instead 

New Features Revolutionizing Content Creation 

• Trial Reels: Test your Reels with non-followers before sharing with your audience 

• Blend Feature: Create shared Reels feeds with friends for collaborative discovery 

• Recommendation Reset: Clear your algorithmic recommendations and start fresh 

• Instagram Edits App: A new editing app with AI tools, caption creators, and collaboration features 

• Grid Format Update: Instagram’s grid now shows a 4:5 ratio content instead of squares, which impacts how creators plan visuals and choose the correct Instagram post ratio for feed content. 

Instagram Video Size and Dimensions: Your Specifications Guide 

Instagram Feed Videos (Now Treated as Reels) 

Important Update: All videos posted to your Instagram feed are now automatically categorized as Reels, even if not recorded through the Reels feature. This change gives your content access to the same algorithmic boosts as standalone Reels, and makes understanding the correct Instagram video format more important for feed visibility. 

Videos size and dimensions

Instagram Feed Video Format: 

• Recommended Dimensions: 1080 x 1920 pixels (9:16 aspect ratio), which aligns with the standard Instagram resolution for vertical video content. 

• Alternative Formats: 

• Square: 1080 x 1080 pixels (1:1) 

• Vertical: 1080 x 1350 pixels (4:5 aspect ratio) 

• Landscape: 1080 x 608 pixels (1.91:1), commonly referenced when discussing Instagram landscape dimensions 

• File Size: Maximum 4GB 

• Video Length: 3 seconds to 15 minutes (mobile), up to 60 minutes (desktop for select accounts) 

• Frame Rate: Minimum 30 FPS for optimal viewing experience 

• File Format: MP4 with H.264 codec (recommended) 

• Video Caption: The text portion of your post should be limited to 125 characters. You can go all the way to 2,200 – but nothing after the first 125 will be displayed until the user clicks or taps to expand the caption. 

Instagram Reels: The Platform’s Powerhouse

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Instagram (@instagram)

Instagram Reels: The Platform’s Powerhouse

Reels continue to dominate Instagram’s ecosystem and receive the most algorithmic preference. Reels made with Instagram’s Movie Gen editor show 41% higher completion rates, especially when created using the correct Instagram reel aspect ratio for vertical viewing. 

Specifications: 

• Dimensions: 1080 x 1920 pixels 

• Aspect Ratio: 9:16 (vertical), which follows the standard Instagram reels aspect ratio 

• Video Length: Up to 3 minutes (in-app recording), up to 15 minutes (upload) 

• File Size: 4GB maximum 

• Safe Zone: 1080 x 1440 pixels for important content 

• Caption Limit: 2,200 characters 

• Hashtag Limit: 30 maximum 

Pro Tip: Reels between 5-25 seconds often perform best, as shorter content improves retention and encourages replays. Don’t forget to get the length just right with Promo’s free video cutter tool.  

Instagram Stories: Connecting with Your Core Audience 

Stories remain crucial for engaging your most dedicated followers. Regular Stories updates keep your profile active and increase the chances of appearing at the top of followers’ feeds, especially when content follows the correct Instagram story size for full-screen viewing. You may need to compress a video or use our video compressor to meet the file size requirements without compromising quality.

Videos Size and Dimensions 

• Dimensions: 1080 x 1920 pixels 

• Aspect Ratio: 9:16, which matches the standard Instagram story aspect ratio 

• Safe Area: 1080 x 1610 pixels (keep important content in this zone) 

• File Size: 4GB for every 15 seconds of video 

• Video Length: 15 seconds per segment (longer videos automatically split) 

• Duration: 24 hours (unless saved to Highlights) 

• Captions: For English-speaking content, you can now add captions directly on the video that will automatically transcribe your Story’s audio. 

New Features: Collage mode for sharing multiple images in a single story and enhanced interactive stickers. For professional-looking Stories, consider using our Instagram Ad Maker to create compelling video content. 

Instagram Story Ads

In addition to using Instagram Stories in your own feed, you can also run Instagram Story ads. In terms of Instagram post sizes, Story Ads are the gold. They take up a user’s screen entirely, providing a full-screen experience when they are presented.  

To achieve this immersive layout, Story Ads rely on the 9×16 aspect ratio, which ensures content fills the screen without cropping or distortion. 

This is an interesting opportunity to use the story format to present your brand to a very targeted audience. Thanks to the advanced tools provided by Instagram for targeting your story ads, you can put this content in front of precisely the right audience demographics for your campaign.  

Our Instagram Ad Maker can help you put together professional video ad content to boost your brand image. 

Videos Size and Dimensions 

• Instagram Story Ads Video Format: Story Ads are meant to be viewed vertically on a mobile device, so 9:16 is the appropriate formatting ratio.  

• Resolution: These videos should be at least 500 pixels wide to meet Instagram video size requirements for ads. 

• File Size: The limit on file size to upload as a story ad is 250MB.  

• Video Length: If you load a video of 15 seconds or less, the entire video will play at once. Going longer means your story ad will be broken up into individual cards.  

Instagram Explore Video Ads 

According to Instagram, more than 50% of users visit the Explore tab to discover content that is related to their specific interests. When you add content to Instagram, your content may be sourced by the platform for inclusion in the Explore feature. Because Explore content appears alongside feed posts and Reels, maintaining the correct Instagram format helps ensure videos display properly across different discovery surfaces. 

While that process is organic, you can also purchase space in the Explore section by running ads. If you choose to run video ads within Explore, you may be able to engage with a new audience who does not yet follow your account and showcase your brand to fresh, new, exploring eyes.  

Videos Size and Dimensions 

• Explore Ad Video Format: The recommended ratio is 4:5, but ratios from 1.91:1 to 4:5 are supported, allowing flexibility while still aligning with the aspect ratio for Instagram. 

• Resolution: In terms of Instagram video size, a minimum width of 500 pixels is required for your video content.  

• File Size: You will need to keep your video file under 4 GB.  

• Length: Explore video ads for Instagram; the length can range from one second to sixty seconds. 

Instagram Live: Real-Time Engagement 

Live videos build authentic connections with your audience through real-time interaction. This format works best when content follows Instagram’s vertical layout, which aligns with standard Instagram vertical dimensions for mobile viewing. 

Specifications: 

• Format: Vertical (9:16) recommended for mobile viewing 

• Participants: Up to 5 people simultaneously (updated from 4 in 2025) 

• New Feature: Automatic subtitles available in multiple languages after Live sessions end 

• Age Restriction: Teens under 16 require parental approval to go live 

Long-Form Video Content (Formerly IGTV) 

Perfect for tutorials, in-depth content, and storytelling. Learn more about maximizing this format in our guide to Instagram TV, especially when working with longer videos that require specific Instagram video dimensions.

This is the perfect place to load video content when you want to spend some time discussing a certain topic with your audience. Rather than using a shorter video format like Stories to send your followers to a longer video elsewhere, you can load an IGTV video and present the information right on Instagram. This reduced friction may result in better engagement with your target market. 

A bonus for using IGTV, the Instagram video format is that the much-coveted Explore Page has a dedicated section for IGTV videos. This increases your chances of grabbing a prime spot on one of the world’s most-viewed feeds. 

IGTV Size and Dimensions 

• Dimensions: 1080 x 1920 pixels (vertical) or 1920 x 1080 pixels (horizontal) 

• Aspect Ratios:  

• Vertical: 4:5 to 9:16, which fits common Instagram portrait dimensions 

• Horizontal: 16:9 to 1.78:1 

• File Size: Up to 650MB for videos up to 10 minutes 

• Video Length: 60 seconds to 2 hours (for verified accounts with certain criteria) 

• New Feature: Chapter feature being tested for longer videos 

• Captions: For captions, you’ll have just 75 characters to work with on IGTV. It’s actually the title of the video that turns into the caption, so take some time to think about the message you want to deliver and how you can deliver that message in as few words as possible. 

Pro-tip:
Unlike other Instagram video formats, an IGTV video will require a photo thumbnail. It’s best to come prepared with one, ideally, a frame you choose from the video itself (using Promo’s publish page, you can easily export any photo from your video). Pay attention that the IGTV thumbnail size needs to be 1240 x 1920, different than the IGTV video dimensions. 

Best Practices for Instagram Video Success 

Now that we’ve talked about all the different types of Instagram videos, let’s dive into some best practices for Instagram video success. Following the platform-recommended Instagram resolution helps ensure videos remain sharp and professional across devices.

Optimize for the New Algorithm 

1. Create Original Content: Instagram’s algorithm now penalizes reposts and rewards original, creative content, regardless of Instagram post format. 

1. Focus on Shareability: Design content that people want to send to friends—shares are now a major ranking factor in Instagram campaigns. 

1. Prioritize Watch Time: The percentage of video watched matters more than absolute time 

1. Avoid Watermarks: Content with visible watermarks from other platforms won’t rank well 

Content Strategy for Maximum Reach 

• The Optimal Weekly Mix: Post 3 carousels, 2 Reels, and daily Stories for 50% more referrals from Explore. This balanced approach works best when you understand what size an Instagram post is for each format you publish. 

• Hook Your Audience Fast: The first 3 seconds are critical. Create compelling openings that make viewers want to keep watching. Mix things up by adding photos to a video to keep your audience engaged. 

• Use Interactive Features: Polls and quizzes now weigh twice as much as static stickers. Include question stickers in about 33% of your Stories. 

Technical Optimization Tips 

1. File Format: Use MP4 with H.264 codec to avoid quality loss during Instagram’s conversion process and maintain compatibility with the standard Instagram video format. 

1. Mobile-First Design: Optimize all videos for mobile viewing since most users view Instagram on mobile devices. Use our video cropper to ensure perfect mobile formatting. 

1. Audio Matters: Include compelling audio in your video to enhance your content and complement your visuals. Adding music to video can be effortless with the right video maker. 

1. Resolution: Stick to 1080p minimum for crisp, professional-looking content 

1. Captions Are Essential: Always add captions to your video so people can enjoy it with the sound off 

SEO and Discovery 

Since hashtags are less effective when optimizing content for Instagram discovery. Using the correct Instagram image size helps ensure visuals display properly across feeds, Explore, and profile grids. Focus on: 

• Keywords in Captions: Use primary keywords in the first 125 characters 

• Profile Optimization: Include relevant keywords in your bio 

• Limited Hashtags: Use 3-5 relevant hashtags instead of maxing out 

• Alt Text: Add descriptive alt text to improve content discovery 

• Social Media Image Optimization: Don’t forget about optimizing your other visual content with our social media image guides 

Advanced Features to Leverage 

Instagram continues to introduce tools that help creators and brands produce content more efficiently while maintaining a consistent Instagram size across formats. 

AI-Powered Tools 

• Movie Gen Editor: Use Instagram’s AI editor for higher completion rates, especially when creating videos that follow the recommended Instagram video dimensions. 

• Content Success Predictor: A machine learning tool that evaluates posts before they go live 

• Heatmaps: Strategically place key elements in high-retention areas 

New Monetization Opportunities 

• Clickable Links in Reels: Meta-verified users can add clickable links to Reels (subscription tiers apply) 

• Collab Reels: Post Reels simultaneously with up to three other accounts, while maintaining the correct Instagram reel dimensions for shared visibility. 

Quick Reference: Instagram Video Specs

*For verified accounts meeting certain criteria 

Looking Ahead: The Future of Instagram Video 

Instagram head Adam Mosseri says this year will be all about creativity and connection, with enhanced AI tools to foster both. As the platform evolves, creators will need to stay aligned with new Instagram size guidelines to ensure future content displays correctly. 

The platform continues evolving with: 

• Improved AI ranking systems that better understand user preferences 

• Enhanced creator tools for more professional content production 

• Stronger focus on authentic, original content creation 

• Better safety features, especially for younger users 

Final Thoughts 

Instagram’s updates represent a significant shift toward rewarding creativity, originality, and genuine engagement. To succeed long-term, creators must understand not only content strategy but also what ratios Instagram post formats use to display correctly across feeds and discovery surfaces. 

Focus on understanding your community, telling compelling stories, and leveraging the platform’s new AI-powered tools. With the right strategy and these updated specifications, you’ll be well-positioned to thrive in Instagram’s evolving landscape. Promo.com’s Instagram Video Maker can help ensure consistency in the size and quality of your videos. 

Remember: authenticity and transparency are key to building sustainable engagement on Instagram. Create content that keeps your audience coming back, and the algorithm will follow. Whether you’re creating Instagram Stories or working on increasing your reach with Instagram Reels, focus on delivering value to your audience first. 

FAQs: Instagram Sizes and Formats 

1. What is the recommended Instagram post size? 

The recommended Instagram post size depends on whether the content is square, portrait, or landscape, but all formats must stay within the supported Instagram post dimensions. 

2. What size is an Instagram post for best quality? 

For the best quality, use the proper Instagram photo size or Instagram video size while maintaining the correct Instagram aspect ratio. 

3. What is the Instagram story size and ratio? 

The ideal Instagram story size follows a vertical format with a consistent Instagram story ratio designed for full-screen viewing. 

4. What are the correct Instagram reel dimensions? 

Instagram reel dimensions follow a vertical format and rely on a specific Instagram reel aspect ratio to display properly in feeds and the Reels tab. 

5. Why is the Instagram aspect ratio important? 

Using the correct Instagram aspect ratio ensures your content isn’t cropped, stretched, or compressed, preserving visual quality and engagement.