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How to change picture size on instagram


How to Fit the Whole Picture on Instagram

Border

Julia Enthoven

4 min

This article shows you how to fit the whole picture on Instagram. If you have a full portrait (9:16) image or video or a landscape (16:9) image or video, you can fit the whole picture in your Instagram post by following this tutorial.

Instagram has a maximum aspect ratio of 4:5 on portrait posts (four pixels wide for every five pixels tall). Instagram’s restriction reduces the number of very tall images that take up a lot of vertical space in the feed. Although it’s nice that Instagram keeps users from publishing massive, obtrusive posts, the 4:5 limit makes it difficult to post a whole vertical picture or video that you shot on your phone.

Here's what your tall photos will look like on Instagram without added borders. 

If you want to fit your whole picture on Instagram but it is taller than the 4:5 aspect ratio, you need to modify your image before posting. Otherwise, Instagram will automatically crop your image to a maximum of 4:5. I recommend the Kapwing resizer as it allows you to add white space on either side to bring your image to the required aspect ratio. In this article, I’ll explain how to fit the whole picture on Instagram in three simple steps:

  1. Upload picture
  2. Resize to 4:5
  3. Download and Post to Instagram

Step 1: Upload Picture

Start by opening the Kapwing’s Resizer tool on your phone or computer. Upload your image file from camera roll or import it from a URL. Kapwing supports images, videos, and GIFs, so you can use it to resize for any kind of media.

The video resizer tool in Kapwing

Once your picture loads into the editor, you’ll be taken into the Kapwing Studio Editor where you'll see a preview of your image in the center of the screen.

Step 2: Resize to 4:5

In the Output Size section, select the 4:5 option. This allows your photo to take up maximum vertical space in the Instagram feed without getting sized down. There is a resizing option for Instagram, 1:1, but this shrinks your image to fit in the default square shape.

Resize the image to 4:5 using the button in the Output Size list

Once you have selected the size option, Kapwing adds white padding to either side of your image to make it fit the 4:5 aspect ratio. You can change this white background to any color you want so that it stands out in the Instagram feed.

Step 3: Download and Post

Click the red Export Image button at the top of the screen. After a few moments of processing, Kapwing makes your resized 4:5 picture or video available for download. Whether you're using a desktop computer, iPhone, Android, or tablet you'll be able to instantly download the image to your photo gallery once published.

If you're not signed into a Kapwing account, sign in or sign up using your Google or Facebook account – once you've signed into a Kapwing account, the watermark in the lower right corner will be removed from your final image.

Open the Instagram app and upload your picture. You’ll notice that Instagram crops the picture to square by default, but you can click the expand arrows or pinch the image in the lower left to fit the whole picture on Instagram. When you publish it, Instagram will resize to image width to fit the screen, the white image background will blend in with Instagram’s white background, and your whole picture will appear on Instagram with no cropping.

Note: You can also choose a black background, if you and your followers use Instagram in Dark Mode.

Conclusion

This tutorial shows you a workaround for posting full portrait pictures and videos on Instagram. You can use Kapwing’s Resizer to post multiple images with different sizes on Instagram, add a thin white border around your media, and publish TikTok and Snap videos. I hope that it helps speed up your social media workflow and enables you to post your beautiful and fun candid moments to Instagram.

This is how your tall photos will appear on Instagram slides – you can see the whole thing!

For more information on how to resize a video for Instagram, check out this video tutorial (we give you the best sizes for each type of video too!):

Check back in at the Kapwing Resources page or our YouTube channel for other content creation tips and tutorials! And remember to tag us @KapwingApp whenever you share your content on social media– we love to see what our creators are passionate about!

Related Articles:

  • How to Post a TikTok on Instagram
  • How to Post a Portrait Photo or Video on Instagram
  • Resize an Animated GIF

How to Post Multiple Images With Different Sizes to Instagram

Instagram

Julia Enthoven

3 min

On Instagram, it’s impossible to post an album — multiple photos or videos in one post that you swipe through — with multiple different aspect ratios. In this article, I'll show you how to do it for free and online.

When posting an album, Instagram requires that the images have the same aspect ratio. In this post, I’ll describe how you can post multiple photos or videos with different sizes by first resizing them to square.

On Instagram, it’s impossible to post an album — multiple photos or videos in one post that you swipe through — with multiple different aspect ratios. For example, if you want to post a landscape image and a portrait image at the same time, you need to crop one or the other (or you could crop both to square). Instagram requires that your photos have the same aspect ratio.

When posting multiple photos or videos, all are cropped to square

To post multiple different photos or videos with different sizes on Instagram, you need to use a tool to resize them first. To avoid cropping out content, add a white background to make each photo or video in to a square. Then, you can post the album without cropping out or changing the size of your image.

Here’s a step-by-step tutorial:

1. Upload your photos/videos to Kapwing

Open the Kapwing Studio and start with a square 1:1 canvas (or 4:5 or 5:4, which are both accepted by Instagram).

One at a time, upload the photos or videos you want to post. Kapwing is free to use and online, so you don’t need to download an app. It supports images, GIFs and videos.

2. Add a white background behind each post

If needed, tap the photo or video and resize the canvas to the right aspect ratio. On mobile, use the "Edit Background" button to find the Resize Canvas button.

1:1 for an Instagram Post appears under the "Size" dropdown (Kapwing also supports 9:16 sizing for Stories and other formats). Turn off "Canvas Blur" and select white for your background color. You can use Kapwing’s zoom and positioning tools to zoom in, crop, or add a border. Double tap to crop the image or video, and use the Play button to watch a preview of what your post will look like. Click Export once the preview matches what you want your post to look like.

3. Export, download, and post

After resizing your posts, you can download them and share them on Instagram as an album. Since each photo/video now has a 1:1 aspect ratio, you can publish them without cropping.

On an iPhone, use the "Downloads" gallery to find the file you just made and save it to your camera roll.

If you're not signed into a Kapwing account, sign in or sign up using your Google or Facebook account. Once you're signed in, each of your exports will be saved in your workspace so that you can download them later.

Repeat these steps for each of the photos and videos that you want to share in your Instagram carousel. After you've downloaded each of the square posts, open the Instagram app and upload them as an album.

For more ideas, tutorials, and features, check back in at the Kapwing Resources page or our YouTube channel! And remember to tag us @KapwingApp whenever you share your content on social media– we love to see what our creators are passionate about!

Related Articles:
• How to Caption Videos Using Instagram Threads
• How to Download Anyone's Instagram Stories
• How to Make Social Justice Slideshows for Instagram
• How to Download Instagram Reels

Instagram photo sizes and scales 2021

After years of just one type of image and video orientation, many other formats have been added to Instagram. These features provide excellent opportunities for creating new content; however, navigating through IGTV, stories, videos, and other posts can be difficult.

This guide will help you understand the optimal sizes and scales for different Instagram formats. We hope this helps you and makes things easier. Once you learn the basic rules, you will be able to create high quality content and your social media page will grow faster and more efficiently. nine0003

Instagram Image Basics: Size and Aspect Ratio

Before we get into the specifications of Instagram, there are a couple of terms you need to know - size and aspect ratio. Although at first glance they describe the same thing, you need to understand the difference, especially in units of measurement.

Size

Size, also referred to as resolution, refers to how many pixels are contained across the width and height of an image. It is expressed in two numbers; for example: 320px by 1080px. The width is indicated by the first number, and the second is the height. nine0003

Resolution is important when taking and uploading high quality photos and images. If the resolution is high, then it contains more pixels - in other words, more data. Thus, the higher the resolution, the higher the image quality. A pixel-limited screen or platform modifies the source material to fit within the specified dimensions.

Aspect Ratio

The aspect ratio is the ratio between the width and height of an image. This dimension is referred to as x:y. For example, it could be 9:16 where 9 is how wide the picture is and 16 is how tall it is.

The importance of aspect ratio comes down to resizing images without distortion. Some users make the mistake of changing images - they ignore the recommended aspect ratio. As a result, they get strange photos, although this could be easily avoided.

Instagram Image Size: Best Tricks in 2021

Even if you want to post sharp photos, uploading images in high resolution, such as 5400px by 5400px, will not achieve the desired result. On the contrary, it will negatively affect the image quality. Therefore, you should take the time to study and follow the recommended sizes. nine0003

The table below will give you a basic idea of ​​common ratios and sizes for various Instagram photos.

Instagram image format Aspect ratio Size
Avatar 1:1 180 x 180 px
Square photo 1:1 1080x1080px
Landscape photo 1. 91:1 1080 x 566 px (608 px)
Portrait/vertical photo 4:5 1080x1350px
Carousel posts 1:1 1080x1080px
Stories 9:16 1080x1920px

Instagram avatar size

The avatar is located next to the username and profile header, so you should take it seriously. The requirements for an Instagram avatar for mobile and desktop versions are slightly different, so it’s better to choose larger images so that they fit well under both versions. nine0003

  • Aspect ratio: 1:1
  • Ideal size: between 110 x 110 px and 180 x 180 px
  • Maximum resolution: 180 x 180 px

Note: The rules do not imply that your avatar must be exactly 180x180px when uploaded. Theoretically, you can upload images much larger than this. More importantly, they must be square in order for the system to display them correctly.

Before uploading a photo, crop it into a square shape to see what details will be cut off and what will remain visible. The finished avatar will be in the shape of a circle, so you should check that there are no important elements around the edges of the image. You should also remember that the photo will be very small, so it makes sense to enlarge it a little and crop it. nine0003

Instagram square image size

Square is the original format that all Instagram users are well aware of. It is still the choice of many users, especially when you consider the fact that posts are displayed in this ratio in the profile grid.

  • Aspect ratio: 1:1
  • Optimal size: between 600 x 600 px and 1080 x 1080 px
  • Maximum resolution: 1080 x 1080 px

Note: When you're composing a square photo, it's best to center the main element. Since there is not much working space on the sides, crop the photo so that the focus is in the center.

Another working method is symmetrical composition. Even if it breaks the rule of thirds that everyone in the world of photography talks about, it works great for Instagram. Symmetrical composition creates harmony and a sense of aesthetic satisfaction, balance and proportion. Play with lines, mirroring and patterns. nine0003

Instagram horizontal (landscape) photo size

Landscape photo orientation is not the best choice for most profiles, but some use it to maintain the look of a professional photo. The standard will still be a square, but you can easily change it with the edit button.

  • Aspect ratio: 1.91:1
  • Optimal size: between 600 x 315 px and 1080 x 608 px
  • Maximum resolution: 1080 x 608 px

Note: Most cameras shoot in 16:9 ratio, not 1.91:1. If you don't resize the photos, they will either be loaded with black edges or the sides of the image will be cut off. Black edges are highly undesirable as they change the look of the image and make the tape look inconsistent.

There are several advantages to creating landscape photos or cropping them to this format. This ratio seems more natural to the human eye and conveys a sense of space or panoramic perception. Landscape orientation is great for horizontal or horizontally moving objects. And in conclusion - this format is most suitable for viewing from a computer. nine0003

Instagram vertical (portrait) photo size

Portrait is a favorite format for marketers as it takes up more real estate on users' screens whenever they're not opening the app. While Instagram gives users room to get creative with non-square formats, there are some limitations.

  • Aspect ratio: 4:5
  • Optimal size: between 480 x 600 px and 1080 x 1350 px
  • Maximum size: 1080 x 1350 px

Note: As we mentioned earlier, the reason portrait photos are prioritized is the most common: they fill almost the entire user's display space. This means that it catches the eye more and gives more chances that the photo will be noticed. In addition, this format literally gives you more physical space to place your brand.

In this case, the rule of thirds comes into play. Vertical lines can be divided into foreground, middle and background. Ideally, it's best to place something eye-catching in all three parts. As a last resort, there should be at least one main focus point. nine0003

Instagram carousel post size

The carousel allows users to upload up to 10 images that match the same aspect ratio. Sometimes it's not easy to align all the photos properly, but it's handy for posting multiple images, close-ups, and other pictures in one post.

  • Aspect ratio: 1:1
  • Optimal size: between 600 x 600 px and 1080 x 1080 px
  • Maximum resolution: 1080 x 1080 px

Note: If you have very high resolution photos of your products, you should consider uploading them in slices to the carousel, ie. you need to enlarge each part of the photo and divide it into parts. In this way, you can showcase the product with all the details, as well as give a general idea of ​​it.

You can also try posting additional items that complement or are part of the set. This way, you won't clutter your feed with multiple posts that might annoy some users. You can even achieve a panoramic effect by posting a layout carousel, where each photo is a suggestion of the previous one. nine0003

Instagram Stories Size

Instagram Stories are very engaging, accessible and easy to follow. Since stories are an effective way to increase reach, engagement, and conversions, you can't afford to upload content in an incomprehensible way.

  • Aspect ratio: 9:16
  • Optimal size: between 600 x 1067 px and 1080 x 1920 px
  • Maximum resolution: 1080 x 1920 px

Note: Instagram provides specific options for different ratios. Photos that do not meet the recommended parameters will not be stretched; instead, the app will add a border around the edges to match the main color scheme of the image. This option allows you to upload even horizontal photos (however, they will be much smaller than vertical ones). nine0003

However, you should still opt for a vertical format in Stories. People use their smartphones vertically, so you don't have to force them to rotate their phones to see the full size image. If you do without using a frame to fill the entire screen, and also rotate the photo vertically, then you will be pleased with the end result.

Instagram video size

If you want to create the perfect Instagram video, then you need to consider the features of the platform. Check out our guide on how to post videos to Instagram and try playing around with different formats. There are many nuances in the publication of videos that are worth getting to know. nine0003

Here is a short table of allowed video formats and their features.

Instagram video format Aspect ratio Size
Square video 1:1 1080x1080px
Horizontal video 16:9 1080x608px
Vertical video 4:5 1080 x 1350px
IGTV 9:16 1080x1350px
Storys 9:16 1080x1920px

Just like with photos, Instagram provides the ability to work with square videos. This format is standard and universal for all kinds of devices. The technical requirements for square videos are almost the same as those for photos.

  • Square video aspect ratio: 1:1
  • Minimum and maximum resolution: 600 x 600 px and 1080 x 1080 px
  • Duration: up to 60 seconds
  • File size: up to 4 GB

Our recommendations for horizontal videos are almost identical to those we gave for photos. The reason why we recommend using a different aspect ratio is that it's too complicated to convert a video to 1.9:1. In addition, most people are used to watching videos in 16:9 format.

  • Aspect ratio for horizontal videos: 16:9
  • Minimum and maximum resolution: 600 x 315 px and 1080 x 608 px
  • Duration: up to 60 seconds
  • File size: up to 4 GB

Vertical video and full screen are not the same thing. If you're filming a clip on your phone, or recording a video on TikTok or Snapchat, then you'll need to resize the video before posting it to your feed.

  • Aspect ratio for vertical videos: 4:5
  • Minimum and maximum resolution: 600 x 750 px and 1080 x 1350 px
  • Duration: up to 60 seconds
  • File size: up to 4 GB

IGTV is Instagram's first attempt at adding a longer video option. To date, this format has proved to be the most suitable for a more detailed display of any topic without a 60-second limit.

  • IGTV aspect ratio: 9:16
  • Minimum and maximum resolution: 600 x 750 px and 1080 x 1350 px
  • Duration: 15 seconds to 60 minutes
  • File size: up to 5.4 GB

Note: The recommended cover photo size is 420 by 654 px, which corresponds to a ratio of 1:1.55. Try to fit the cover image to the exact size you need because you won't be able to change it later.

Story video is a way to make short vertical videos. Whether you record video directly from the app or upload it from an album, the requirements remain the same. If the video does not fit the required parameters, it will be automatically cropped. nine0003

  • Aspect ratio for video stories: 9:16
  • Minimum and maximum resolution: 600 x 1067 px and 1080 x 1920 px
  • Duration: up to 15 seconds
  • File size: up to 4 GB

How to resize an original photo to fit Instagram?

Have you ever felt like posting a full size photo to your story or Instagram feed? But the social network ruthlessly cut off the most beautiful area in the picture. Let's see how to resize to instagram and upload a photo in original size. nine0003

Screenshot for stories

If you want to post a story, but everything is cut off, then the easiest way to resize a photo for Instagram is to take a screenshot of it from the general Gallery. Only if you upload a picture to the story, the image will have black borders.

For posts

Everything is easier with posts. And uploading a full size photo is easy. Let's see how to do it. Instagram itself has a standard function with which you can adjust the size of the photo to Instagram. nine0003

What to do:

  1. Open the app, create a new post and select the desired photo.
  2. In edit mode, spread two fingers apart and then reduce the size of the picture. That is, to make the same movements when we reduce the pictures.
  3. Upload your photo to the feed.

Instasize

If you are a terrible perfectionist and want all your photos to be edited in the same style, then you can use an application called Instasize . You can download it in the AppStore and Google Play (in-app purchases are possible).

Leaving the photo in full size, you can choose any frame format in the application:

  • frames on the sides;
  • frames (top and bottom) for the story;
  • full size photo format for instagram;
  • as well as an equal frame.

The following functions are also available in the program: