4 5 Ratio Social Media Guide for Images and Videos

Understanding the 4:5 Aspect Ratio in Social Media

The 4:5 aspect ratio is a widely used format in social media marketing because it describes visuals that are 4 units wide and 5 units tall. In practice, for platforms like Instagram and Facebook, this equates to 1080 x 1350 pixels—a size perfectly suited for mobile devices. This vertically oriented frame offers more on-screen presence than a square without triggering unwanted cropping.

Optimizing content for the 4:5 aspect ratio allows creators and brands to maximize engagement on mobile feeds, where taller imagery naturally commands attention and holds viewer focus longer.

---

4:5 vs Other Common Aspect Ratios

While the 4:5 format shines on mobile, different projects call for different ratios. Here’s how it compares:

The 1:1 ratio feels balanced and versatile, while 16:9 offers a cinematic look. However, 4:5 offers the most mobile scroll dominance, showcasing more content without exceeding display limits.

---

Why 4:5 Dominates Instagram and Facebook Mobile

On Instagram, images taller than 4:5 get cropped in the feed, making it the tallest format that preserves your framing. Facebook mobile benefits similarly—4:5 visuals capture more vertical space during scrolling, giving your post more “screen time” and increasing engagement metrics like likes, comments, and shares.

---

Platform-Specific Guidelines for 4:5 Content

Adhering to platform standards ensures your 4:5 assets display perfectly:

---

How to Crop & Size Photos to 4:5

Adobe Photoshop

1. Open your image.
2. Choose the Crop Tool.
3. Set ratio to `4:5`.
4. Adjust framing.
5. Export at 1080 x 1350 px.

Canva

1. Create a custom design at 1080 x 1350 px.
2. Upload your photo.
3. Resize/reposition.
4. Export as PNG or JPG.

Lightroom Classic

1. Enter Crop Mode.
2. Set ratio to `4x5`.
3. Frame subject.
4. Export with correct resolution.

## Example using Python Pillow

from PIL import Image

img = Image.open("photo.jpg")
width = img.width
new_height = int(width * 5 / 4)
cropped = img.crop((0, 0, width, new_height))
cropped.save("output_4x5.jpg")

---

Tips for Balancing Composition in 4:5

A tall canvas can enhance storytelling if used thoughtfully:

• Center the subject to maintain symmetry.
• Use vertical lines to draw the eye upward/downward.
• Add breathing space for clarity.
• Apply the rule of thirds for visual interest.

---

Examples of High-Performing 4:5 Content

This ratio works across content types:

• Travel: Tall landscapes with human elements.
• Food: Portrait-style shots showcasing textures.
• E-commerce: Large product visuals filling most of the frame.
• Fitness: Full-body action shots in portrait mode.

These perform well thanks to an optimized vertical viewing experience that encourages saves and shares.

---

Algorithmic Visibility Benefits

The 4:5 ratio influences platform algorithms by:

• Increasing dwell time due to more feed coverage.
• Improving engagement rates as viewers pause longer.
• Boosting ad CTRs on mobile screens.

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When working with 4:5, sidestep these pitfalls:

1. Excessive text—keep it minimal.
2. Ignoring safety margins for overlay elements.
3. Low resolution leading to pixelation.
4. Cropping errors that cut out important details.

---

Checklist for Consistent 4:5 Visual Branding

• Stick to brand colors.
• Use brand-approved fonts.
• Maintain 4:5 crop throughout campaigns.
• Center or balance focal points.
• Always export at 1080 x 1350 px.
• Preview on a mobile feed before publishing.

---

Summary

Mastering the 4:5 aspect ratio is an essential step for marketers, influencers, and brands aiming to maximize impact on mobile-first platforms. Its taller composition draws attention, fits seamlessly within feed constraints, and enhances user engagement. By applying platform-specific guidelines, careful cropping, and consistent branding, you ensure your social visuals stand out in a crowded scroll.

Ready to elevate your feed? Start adapting your next post to the 4:5 aspect ratio and measure the difference in engagement.