How the NEW 4:5 Grid Change Affects Your Instagram

Recently I discovered over the holiday break that Instagram’s moving from the classic 1:1 grid to a taller 4:5 format. Square posts will be affected by cropping.


Here’s what that means for your account:

The Good Stuff

  • More Engagement: The 4:5 format is taller, grabbing attention and encouraging longer viewing times. This could lead to more likes, comments, and saves.

  • Better for Vertical Content: With the rise of Reels and vertical videos, this new format feels more natural and immersive for that content.

  • Improved Storytelling: The extra vertical space allows for more creative visuals, giving you a better way to tell your story.

The Not-So-Good Stuff

  • Aesthetic Disruption: If you’ve worked hard to curate a perfect 1:1 grid, the change might mess with the flow of your feed temporarily.

  • Reduced Visibility: Taller posts mean users have to scroll more, which could affect the visibility and impact of your grid.

  • Adapting to the New Size: If you’re used to creating content for 1:1, adjusting to the 4:5 aspect ratio could take some time and effort.

How to Make It Work for You

  • Plan Your Feed: Think about how this new size fits into your overall grid aesthetic, and plan ahead for your posts.

  • Experiment: Play around with different layouts to find what works best for showcasing your content in the new format.

  • Optimise Your Content: Make sure your visuals look great in both 1:1 and 4:5, especially if you’re using text—make sure it’s readable in both formats.

  • Track Your Performance: Watch your metrics to see how the new format is affecting your engagement and visibility.

  • Embrace the Change: See this as an opportunity to refresh your feed, get creative, and try new things!


In the end, the 4:5 shift is likely to be beneficial, but you need to start posting in this format now.

Need help keeping up with Instagram’s changes or a refresh of your grid? Don’t hesitate to make contact.

Your’s in design,


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