Your Square Instagram Grid Could Be About to Change to Rectangles: Everything You Need to Know

August 28, 2024
By
Rachel Ramsay

The Instagram grid is one of the platform's defining features, allowing users to showcase their content in a visually appealing, curated format. But big changes could be on the horizon.

Recently, Instagram has been testing a 4:5 ratio on select users’ profiles

__wf_reserved_inherit

And this change isn't just a fleeting experiment; it was tested a few years ago and is now making a comeback, indicating that it’s likely here to stay.

According to Adam Mosseri, head of Instagram, this ratio aligns the grid more closely with vertical video formats. 

Our take? It’s wise to start preparing for the change

If this shift to the Instagram rectangle grid goes through, the repercussions for your grid look and feel could be significant. 

When the platform transitions from a 1:1 ratio to a 4:5 ratio, all your previous square posts will automatically be resized to fit the new grid format. For images initially posted as squares, it’ll mean the sides of your posts will be cropped out. 

However, there’s no need to panic. While the Instagram grid changes might seem daunting, they also present an opportunity to refresh your content strategy and adapt to the new format. The key is to start preparing now.

The optimal dimensions for the Instagram grid used to be 1080x1080 pixels—now, you want to aim for 1080x1350 pixels

By adjusting your static and carousel posts to these new dimensions, you’ll ensure that your content looks its best on the Instagram rectangle grid.

Collaborate effortlessly, save time and spend less

Why settle for a lackluster social media management tool when you could be using Sked Social? With unlimited collaborator access, streamlined approvals and advanced auto-post technology that lets you schedule to all major platforms, Sked Social offers everything you need.

Get Started for FREE

Additionally, if you’ve been designing custom covers for your Reels, you’ll need to rethink your approach. 

Previously, only the central 1080x1080px square of your cover would appear on your feed by default. But with the Instagram grid changes, the visible area on your feed will expand to 1080x1350px. 

Make sure your design elements are well within the new Instagram ideal ratio, ensuring they remain visible and aesthetically pleasing in the new format.

Even if your Instagram grid hasn’t yet transitioned to the new 4:5 ratio, it’s likely only a matter of time before it does. 

The faster you begin adapting your content to the new Instagram ideal ratio, the more seamlessly your grid will transition when the change inevitably rolls out.

By proactively updating your static posts, carousel posts, and Reel covers to fit the Instagram rectangle grid, you’ll not only maintain the polished look of your profile but also ensure that your content remains engaging and visually appealing to your audience. 

So don’t wait—start optimizing your Instagram grid today to keep your profile looking sharp and professional, no matter what changes come your way.

Trying to supercharge your Instagram strategy? Check out these blogs.

5 Up-And-Coming Brand Instagram Accounts of 2024
Instagram Memes & Trends to Try—Updated Weekly
How to Increase your Instagram Post Shareability in 2024

Contents

What to read next

Instagram

Instagram Trends & Memes to Try This Week: November 2024

November 7, 2024

Searching for an Instagram trend to fill out your content calendar this week? Say no more.

Instagram

How to Use Hashtags on Instagram in 2024: Hashtag Tips to Up Your Insta Game

October 28, 2024

Hashtags have long been Instagram's secret sauce for content discovery and engagement. But with algorithm updates and new features like voice-to-text detection and captions on Reels, the game has changed.

Sked Social is your all-in-one social media management platform

Brands and agencies with an eye for aesthetics use Sked Social to plan, schedule, and engage customers with visual content—on your favourite socials, including Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest and LinkedIn.