Limits and SizesInstagram's help page "Image resolution of photos you share on Instagram" says that Instagram uploads photos at the best resolution possible, up to a width of 1080 pixels.
- A photo with a width between 320 and 1080 pixels is kept at its original resolution as long as the aspect ratio is between 1.91:1 and 3:4. That is a width of 1080 with a height from 566 to 1440 pixels.
- If the aspect ratio is not supported, the photo is cropped to fit a supported ratio.
- A photo of lower resolution is enlarged to a width of 320 pixels; a larger one is sized down to a width of 1080.
Read on 14 November 2026 at help.instagram.com/1631821640426723. Apps can change a limit without notice; check the app before an important post.
How to prepare a picture
Choose the shape first (square, 4:3 portrait or wide), then crop so that the important part is in the middle. Use the resizer to make a 1080-pixel-wide picture at the right shape. Photos taken on a phone are usually large enough.
Why a picture looks cropped
If your picture is taller or wider than the supported range, Instagram trims it. Crop it yourself first so you choose what is lost.
Questions people ask
Why does my picture look cropped?
Instagram says a photo with an unsupported shape is cropped to fit a supported one. Crop it yourself first.
Is bigger than 1080 wide better?
The help page says larger photos are sized down to a width of 1080 pixels, so extra size is wasted.