4 5 IG Size Guide and Best Dimensions for Instagram Posts
Learn the optimal 4:5 Instagram size, pixel dimensions, cropping tips, and export settings to boost engagement and maintain image quality.
Optimizing Content with the 4:5 IG Size
The 4:5 IG size is one of the most effective image aspect ratios for Instagram feed posts, combining aesthetic appeal with maximum screen usage. Understanding how to create, format, and optimize posts in this size can boost engagement, preserve visual quality, and enhance branding consistency. This guide covers everything you need to know about dimensions, cropping, exporting, composition, and performance tracking for the 4:5 ratio.
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Understanding the 4:5 IG Size
When we talk about “4:5 IG size”, we’re referring to an image’s aspect ratio, where the width is 4 units and the height is 5 units. This vertical orientation is taller than the classic square format, yet not as tall as Instagram Stories.
On Instagram, the 4:5 aspect ratio is one of the most effective formats for feed posts because it occupies more vertical space, making your content more attention-grabbing in the scrolling feed.
Why Aspect Ratio Matters
When you upload images to Instagram without the correct aspect ratio, the platform may crop them automatically or add white borders—both of which can hurt engagement and visual consistency. Using the optimal ratio ensures your audience sees exactly what you intended.
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Ideal Pixel Dimensions for 4:5 Instagram Posts
While the ratio determines the shape, pixels determine the quality. Instagram recommends an upload size of 1080 x 1350 pixels for 4:5 posts:
- Width: 1080 pixels
- Height: 1350 pixels
- Aspect ratio: 4:5
This resolution strikes the balance between quality and file size, ensuring your images remain sharp without unnecessarily large files.
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Format Comparisons: Square, Vertical, Story
To understand where 4:5 fits in, let’s compare it with other common Instagram formats.
| Format | Aspect Ratio | Recommended Size | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| Square | 1:1 | 1080 x 1080 px | Classic look, easy cropping, versatile |
| Vertical (Tall) | 4:5 | 1080 x 1350 px | Maximizes vertical feed space, higher engagement |
| Story / Reel | 9:16 | 1080 x 1920 px | Full-screen immersive content |
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Benefits of Using the 4:5 Ratio
Instagram’s algorithm values engagement, and the 4:5 vertical format can help increase it:
- More Screen Real Estate – The taller format occupies more vertical space, giving users more reason to pause on your content.
- Better Visibility – It stands out among smaller square posts.
- Improved Story Integration – Crops can be easily adapted for Stories.
- Balanced Composition – Offers extra space for people, products, or text without overwhelming the image.
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How to Crop and Resize Images to 4:5
If your source image is a different aspect ratio, you can crop or resize it using popular tools:
Canva (Online Tool)
- Open your image in Canva.
- Use the Crop tool and select “Custom Dimensions.”
- Enter 1080 x 1350 px.
- Adjust the framing and export as JPEG or PNG.
Photoshop
1. Open Image > Image Size → Set Width: 1080 px, Height: 1350 px.
2. Change aspect ratio to 4:5 using the Crop tool.
3. Export with “Save for Web” (JPEG, quality 80-90%).Mobile Apps (e.g., Snapseed, Lightroom Mobile)
- Select Crop → Aspect Ratio → 4:5 preset.
- Pinch to reposition the subject within the frame.
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Avoiding Quality Loss: Best Export Settings
Low-quality images hurt engagement. Use these export tips:
- Save in JPEG format with 80-90% quality to retain detail without creating unnecessarily large files.
- Keep color profile as sRGB—Instagram supports it best.
- Keep file size under 2 MB to ensure fast loading.
- Avoid repeated JPEG resaves to prevent compression artifacts.
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Tips for Composing Photos in 4:5
Composition matters as much as resolution. Here’s how to optimize:
- Keep the subject centered or follow the rule of thirds.
- Leave breathing room at the top and bottom to prevent cropping on different devices.
- Use negative space effectively for text overlays.
- Align vertical lines to guide the viewer’s attention.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Cropping out key elements – Always check the preview before posting.
- Uploading low-resolution images – Avoid anything under 1080 px width.
- Misaligned graphics – Keep text and logos within safe zones.
- Over-compression – Results in loss of vibrancy and detail.
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Leveraging 4:5 for Carousel Posts and Ads
The 4:5 format is ideal for carousels and feed ads:
- Consistent dimensions – All slides match for a smooth swipe experience.
- More storytelling space – Extra height fits more visuals or copy without shrinking details.
- Higher ad impact – Vertical space draws more attention in feeds.
For ads, follow these guidelines:
- Create designs at 1080 x 1350 px.
- Place critical messaging in the safe center zone.
- Test variations with and without overlay text.
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Testing and Analyzing Performance
To determine the real impact of 4:5 posts vs. other formats:
- Use Instagram Insights to compare engagement metrics like likes, saves, and shares.
- Track watch time for videos in 4:5 vs. square layouts within carousels.
- Run A/B tests for ad campaigns to measure click-through rates and conversions.
Pro Tip: Collect at least one month of data for accuracy; shorter timeframes can be misleading due to random spikes.
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Summary and Next Steps
The 4:5 IG size isn’t just a technical choice—it’s a strategic way to dominate more screen space and increase engagement. By using the correct pixel dimensions, cropping efficiently, exporting with optimal quality, and composing thoughtfully, you can make your Instagram content visually stronger and more consistent.
Ready to grow your reach? Start incorporating the 4:5 format into your feed posts, carousels, and ads, track your performance, and refine your creative process for maximum impact on Instagram.
