4 5 Size in Px Explained for Images and Social Media
Learn what 4:5 size in pixels means, why it's popular on Instagram, and how to crop, resize, and optimize vertical images for maximum impact.

Understanding the 4:5 Aspect Ratio
If you’ve ever seen the phrase 4:5 size in px when preparing or resizing images for social media, it refers to a specific aspect ratio — the proportional relationship between an image’s width and height. In this format, the width is 4 units, while the height is 5 units. The image is slightly taller than it is wide, resulting in a vertical format that is highly effective on platforms like Instagram feed posts.
Aspect ratio plays a crucial role in how your image is displayed across devices. Choosing the correct ratio prevents unwanted cropping or resizing, helping your visual content remain consistent and professional.

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Converting 4:5 Aspect Ratio into Pixel Dimensions
Abstract ratios need to be converted into pixel dimensions for practical use. The 4:5 proportion can be scaled to multiple sizes without losing its vertical look. Your choice of size depends on whether you’re posting online, printing, or creating high-resolution designs.
Popular 4:5 pixel dimensions include:
Aspect Ratio | Width (px) | Height (px) | Common Usage |
---|---|---|---|
4:5 | 800 | 1000 | Web and light social media uploads |
4:5 | 1080 | 1350 | Instagram feed optimal size |
4:5 | 1200 | 1500 | High-resolution prints |
The most recommended Instagram feed size is 1080 x 1350 pixels — crisp enough for most screens while maximizing vertical visibility.
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Why 4:5 Size is Popular on Instagram
Instagram’s mobile-first design makes vertical images more visually dominant in the feed. The 4:5 aspect ratio covers more vertical space than a square image without triggering cropping in the main feed view.
Benefits for Instagram
- More screen real estate: Taller posts draw user attention during scrolling.
- Better for portraits: Offers flattering proportion for humans and objects.
- Platform-native fit: Reduces the risk of important elements being cropped.

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Comparing 4:5 with Other Aspect Ratios
Knowing how 4:5 stacks up against common formats helps you pick the best one for each purpose.
Aspect Ratio | Example Pixels | Screen Coverage | Best Use Cases |
---|---|---|---|
1:1 | 1080x1080 | Moderate | Grid posts, balanced layouts |
4:5 | 1080x1350 | High (vertical space) | Portraits, tall infographics |
16:9 | 1920x1080 | Wide | Videos, landscape photos |
Against square 1:1, the 4:5 orientation gives you more height within the same horizontal constraints. Compared to 16:9, it gains emphasis in vertical scrolling but sacrifices horizontal breadth.
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How to Crop and Resize Images to 4:5
You can achieve the 4:5 look using professional software or free mobile apps.
Photoshop
- Open your image.
- Select Crop Tool (C).
- Choose 4:5 (Vertical) from the ratio dropdown.
- Adjust crop framing for balance.
- Export at your target pixel dimensions, e.g., 1080 x 1350.
Canva
- Upload your photo to the workspace.
- Create a blank canvas at 1080x1350 px.
- Drag your image in and crop as needed.
Mobile Apps (Snapseed, Lightroom)
- Import your photo.
- Choose 4:5 as the crop ratio.
- Save/export at full resolution.
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Tips to Maintain Image Quality in 4:5
Keeping images sharp and clean requires mindful resizing:
- Lock proportions: Avoid distorting your subject.
- Start large: Crop from high-resolution files.
- Export at optimal size: For Instagram, maintain 1080x1350 px.
- Reduce compression: Avoid overly compressed exports.
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Best Practices for Composition in 4:5 Frame
The tall, narrow profile of 4:5 offers unique design opportunities.
Key Composition Techniques
- Rule of Thirds: Align subjects along a grid for balanced viewing.
- Central framing: Effective for products and symmetrical scenes.
- Leading lines: Guide the eye upward or downward naturally.
- Ample head/footroom: Prevent cramped compositions.
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Common Use Cases for 4:5 Size in PX
This size’s vertical emphasis makes it a favorite for:
- Portrait Photography — Natural framing for people.
- Data-rich infographics — More vertical space for information.
- E-commerce products — Highlight small-to-medium products.
- Event flyers — Visually impactful in mobile feeds.
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Common Mistakes When Using 4:5 Images
Avoid these pitfalls to keep your visuals professional:
- Stretching assets — Warps shapes, reduces quality.
- Pixelation — Caused by excessive upscaling from low-res sources.
- Ignoring safe zones — Key elements cut off in crop previews.
- Overcrowding frame — Clutters visual flow in vertical space.

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Summary: Benefits & Optimal Workflows for 4:5 Size in PX
The 4:5 size in px is one of the most effective vertical aspect ratios for digital media and social networks. When translated into pixels such as 1080 x 1350, it balances resolution and platform optimization.
Key Takeaways:
- 4:5 maximizes vertical visibility on Instagram.
- Proper cropping preserves both proportion and composition.
- Starting with high-quality sources ensures better final output.
- Simple composition techniques keep the layout appealing.
Optimal Workflow:
- Begin with a high-resolution original.
- Crop to 4:5 ratio in editing tools.
- Export at 1080x1350 px for Instagram posting.
- Preview on mobile before publishing.
Used strategically, the 4:5 aspect ratio brings greater attention and professionalism to your imagery, helping you make the most of today’s vertical-first social media environment.