Make Instagram Reels 1080 × 1920 pixels, in the 9:16 vertical ratio. Keep the important picture and all text away from the top and bottom edges, where the interface sits. Platform limits change, so confirm length and file size on Instagram’s own help page before you publish.
Formats and sizes2 min readUpdated By the Video.app creative team
01The size
The common recommendation across Instagram guides is 1080 pixels wide by 1920 high, a 9:16 ratio. A film made in another ratio is cropped or shown with bars, so it is better to make the vertical version on purpose than to crop a wide one.
02Ratios for Reels, Stories and the feed
Instagram shows different placements in different shapes. These are the sizes most guides give; confirm on Instagram’s help page before a campaign.
Placement
Ratio
Pixels
Reels and Stories
9:16
1080 × 1920
Feed, portrait
4:5
1080 × 1350
Feed, square
1:1
1080 × 1080
03Safe zones
The interface covers parts of the picture: the account name and caption at the bottom, and buttons on the right side. Put the product, the faces and every word of text well inside the frame.
04Length, file size and resolution
Instagram changes the allowed length, the file size and the minimum resolution from time to time. Do not rely on a number from an old article, including this one: read Instagram’s help page on the day you publish.
05One film, every size
A campaign usually needs more than one ratio. We make the film once and cut it for each placement, so the framing is chosen for every shape instead of being cropped by the platform.
Common questions
Can I upload a 16:9 film as a Reel?
Yes, but it will be shown small with bars or cropped. A film made for 9:16 looks better.
What about TikTok and YouTube Shorts?
Both use the same vertical shape. See the guide on video aspect ratios for the full list.
Should I add captions?
Yes. Many people watch without sound, so build captions into the film.
Do you deliver every ratio?
Yes. The ratios are listed in the scope and delivered together.
