4:5 Sizes Guide for Social Media Images and Posts

Introduction to the 4:5 Aspect Ratio for Social Media

The 4:5 aspect ratio has become a go-to format for social media creatives, marketers, and influencers aiming to make the most of vertical space on mobile devices. This size offers optimal visibility in feeds without unwanted cropping, making it especially valuable for platforms like Instagram and Pinterest. In this guide, we'll explore why the 4:5 size works so well, how to create and optimize your posts, and the tools you can use to ensure maximum engagement.

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Understanding the 4:5 Aspect Ratio

The 4:5 aspect ratio refers to the proportion between the width and height of an image. Specifically, for every 4 units of width, there are 5 units of height. This means the height is slightly taller than the width, creating a vertical image suitable for certain social media platforms.

Mathematically:

`Width / Height = 4 / 5 → e.g., 1080px / 1350px`

This ratio is neither square nor as tall as a perfect portrait (like 2:3), making it a versatile choice for digital platforms.

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Why the 4:5 Size is Popular on Instagram and Pinterest

Instagram limits portrait image ratios to a maximum of 4:5. Anything taller is automatically cropped. Pinterest, while more flexible, often gives more screen space to vertical images, and 4:5 fits well into feed previews without cutting off important details.

Key reasons for popularity:

• Maximizes vertical screen space without triggering cropping
• More visible in feeds compared to square or horizontal formats
• Mobile-first friendly — perfect for the way users scroll

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Optimal Pixel Dimensions for a 4:5 Post

For most social media uses, maintaining high resolution while staying within platform limits is crucial.

Recommended Instagram & Pinterest dimension:

• 1080 x 1350 pixels (Width:Height = 4:5) — keeps clarity while ensuring full use of the allowed portrait ratio.

Other common resolutions:

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Benefits of 4:5 for Engagement and Visibility

Using the 4:5 ratio strategically can lead to:

• Higher engagement rates: Taller images take up more screen real estate, slowing down scrolling
• Better storytelling space: More vertical area to arrange elements, text, or product shots
• Improved click-throughs: Visual dominance can draw the eye toward call-to-action elements

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Cropping and Resizing to 4:5 in Canva and Photoshop

In Canva:

1. Upload your image
2. Select Resize → Set dimensions to 1080 x 1350 pixels
3. Adjust the crop window to keep essential elements within frame
4. Export as JPG or PNG

In Photoshop:

1. Open the image
2. Choose the Crop Tool
3. Set Aspect Ratio to 4:5 in the options bar
4. Position crop boundaries and press Enter/Return
5. Export via File → Export → Save for Web

Pro Tip: Always duplicate your original file before cropping to avoid irreversible changes

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Best Practices for Maintaining Image Quality at 4:5

• Start with high-resolution photos to prevent pixelation when cropping
• Use lossless file formats (e.g., PNG) when possible for graphics and text-heavy designs
• Avoid excessive compression before uploading
• Sharpen slightly after resizing to restore crisp edges

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Content Types That Work Well in 4:5 Format

• Portrait photography — head-to-toe or mid-length images
• Product shots — especially those benefiting from vertical framing
• Infographics — optimized for mobile reading
• Event posters — with vertical typography

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Visual Composition Tips for Maximizing Space

• Rule of Thirds: Divide the frame into a 3x3 grid for balanced placement
• Center the subject for symmetry in product shots
• Use vertical leading lines to emphasize height
• Keep empty space for overlaid text or CTAs

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Ignoring safe zones — critical elements can get cropped in previews
2. Overstuffing visual elements — clutter reduces engagement
3. Neglecting platform compression — test uploads to ensure colors remain accurate
4. Using oversized file sizes — can slow load times and hurt performance

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Step-by-Step Workflow for Creating a 4:5 Size Post

1. Plan the concept and confirm if vertical space benefits the content
2. Capture or select source images with extra edge space for cropping
3. Open editing software (Canva/Photoshop/Figma)
4. Set canvas size: 1080 x 1350 px
5. Apply crops — maintain key subject positioning
6. Add design elements like text or iconography
7. Export optimized file — aim for <1MB for web use
8. Upload and add caption/hashtags
9. Publish during peak engagement times for your audience

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Testing and Analyzing Performance

Track post metrics in native analytics tools (Instagram Insights, Pinterest Analytics):

• Impressions
• Engagement rate (likes, comments, shares)
• Click-through rate (for linked content)

A/B testing approach:

• Publish two similar posts, one in 4:5 and one in square format
• Compare engagement over a fixed period to draw data-based conclusions

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Recommended Tools and Apps Supporting Custom Aspect Ratios

• Canva: Simple drag-and-drop, presets for 4:5
• Adobe Photoshop: Granular control over resolution and compression
• Figma: Collaborative design with custom frames
• Adobe Lightroom: Photography-focused aspect cropping
• InShot: Mobile-friendly editing with ratio presets
• PicMonkey: Web-based tool for social media graphics

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Conclusion

Mastering the 4:5 aspect ratio is essential for improving social media visibility and engagement. Whether you're a brand, influencer, or marketer, the vertical dominance of this ratio helps content stand out in crowded feeds. Pairing smart cropping techniques, quality preservation, and strategic composition ensures your 4:5 posts maintain professional quality and drive results.

Ready to boost your social media impact? Start experimenting with 4:5 layouts today and watch your engagement grow.