Instagram Post Size 4:5 Guide with Dimensions and Tips

Introduction: Why the 4:5 Ratio is a Game-Changer on Instagram

Instagram remains one of the most influential platforms for visual storytelling, where mastering dimensions can significantly impact performance. While square (1:1) and cinematic horizontal (16:9) formats are well known, the Instagram post size 4:5 has quickly become a high-engagement favorite.

Why? The 4:5 aspect ratio occupies more vertical space in Instagram’s feed, giving your content greater visual dominance and increasing the likelihood of catching a user’s attention mid-scroll. More on-screen presence often translates to higher engagement rates and stronger audience retention.

If you’re looking to maximize feed impact without relying exclusively on multi-slide carousels or video Reels, understanding and using the 4:5 Instagram post size effectively is essential.

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What is the 4:5 Aspect Ratio in Pixels?

The 4:5 aspect ratio means the width is 4 units and the height is 5 units—taller than a square but shorter than Stories (9:16).

For Instagram, the recommended 4:5 pixel sizes are:

• 1080 x 1350 pixels (width × height)
• Minimum resolution: 600 × 750 pixels
• Any larger size preserving the ratio will be compressed to fit Instagram’s limits

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When to Choose 4:5 Over Square or Horizontal

Opt for the 4:5 post size when:

• Your subject is vertical (e.g., portraits, buildings, fashion photography).
• You want your content to take up more feed space without getting cropped.
• You’re focusing on details better highlighted in a vertical frame.

Avoid it when:

• Your scene is panoramic or uses horizontal storytelling.
• You need a universal format for other platforms that favor horizontal images.

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How 4:5 Impacts Feed Preview and Engagement

Instagram crops the feed display to accommodate aspect ratios, and 4:5 offers the tallest preview before being auto-cropped.

More screen coverage = longer attention time = improved engagement potential.

Data indicates that vertical posts like 4:5 can outperform square formats by 13–15% in engagement, especially for fashion, travel, and culinary niches.

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Designing 4:5 Posts in Popular Tools

Canva

• Select Custom Size: set to 1080 × 1350 px.
• Utilize grid overlays to enhance composition balance.

Photoshop

• Create a document at 1080 × 1350 px, 72 or 300 dpi depending on purpose.
• Use the Crop Tool with the 4:5 (8:10) preset for precision.

Lightroom

• Select the Crop Overlay tool and set the aspect to 4×5.
• Batch sync edits for cohesive branding.

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Tips for Cropping Existing Images to 4:5 Without Losing Quality

1. Use the highest resolution source file to prevent pixelation.
2. Center the crop unless you want intentional off-center composition.
3. In Photoshop, use “Content-Aware Fill” to extend backgrounds after cropping.
4. Avoid aggressive upscaling—stick to a minimum of 72 dpi for digital use, 300 dpi for print.

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Optimizing Resolution and File Size After Export

Instagram compresses uploads, but pre-optimizing avoids unnecessary quality loss:

• Export as JPEG at ~80% quality.
• Keep files below 1 MB if possible.
• Use the sRGB color profile for consistent color rendering online.

Example export settings:

Format: JPEG
Dimensions: 1080 x 1350 px
Quality: 80%
Color Space: sRGB

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Best Practices for Text and Composition in Vertical Frames

• Keep essential text within the safe central 80% to avoid UI overlaps.
• Maintain margin space for visual clarity.
• For portraits, position eyes around the upper third for balance.

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Examples of Brands and Influencers Using 4:5 Posts Effectively

• Fashion Influencers present full outfits in vertical frames for maximum detail.
• Travel Creators showcase tall landscapes, waterfalls, and architecture.
• Food Bloggers enhance plating visuals with immersive vertical shots.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid with 4:5 Instagram Images

• Uploading oversized images that suffer from over-compression.
• Ignoring how the feed crops previews on different devices.
• Cluttering the vertical space with too much text or too many elements.

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Scheduling and Posting 4:5 Content for Peak Reach

• Use scheduling tools like Buffer, Later, or Meta Business Suite to stay consistent.
• Check Instagram Insights to find peak audience activity times.
• Mix in other aspect ratios for variety while keeping the 4:5 as a strong visual hook.

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Conclusion + Quick Reference Chart for Instagram Sizes

The Instagram post size 4:5 is one of the most effective dimensions for capturing audience attention in-feed. By utilizing correct dimensions, optimizing resolution, and applying sound composition principles, you position your content for maximum engagement and reach.

Here’s a cheat sheet to keep handy:

Action Tip: Start implementing 4:5 posts for your next campaign, monitor performance through Instagram Insights, and refine your content strategy to take full advantage of this high-impact format.