How to crop an image for Instagram
4 min read
Instagram uses specific image dimensions for posts, stories and reels. Crop your photo to the right size and it will display crisp and uncropped — here is exactly how.
Instagram image sizes at a glance
- Square post — 1080×1080 px (1:1)
- Portrait post — 1080×1350 px (4:5)
- Landscape post — 1080×566 px (1.91:1)
- Story / Reel — 1080×1920 px (9:16)
Step 1: Add your photo
Open the crop tool and drag your image into the editor, click to browse, or paste it straight from your clipboard. Your photo loads instantly and stays on your device — nothing is uploaded.
Step 2: Choose the right preset
In the Crop tab you will find one-tap social presets. Pick Instagram Post for a square feed image, or Instagram Story / Reel for a full-screen vertical image. The crop frame snaps to the correct ratio automatically.
Step 3: Frame your subject
Drag the image to reposition it inside the frame, and scroll or pinch to zoom. Keep your subject centred for feed posts, and avoid placing text near the very top or bottom of stories where buttons and captions appear.
Step 4: Export and post
Head to the Export tab and choose JPG for photographs (smallest size) or PNG for graphics with sharp lines. If you want the smallest possible upload, try WebP, though Instagram itself will re-encode the image. Download, then post directly from your phone or desktop.
Tips for the best results
- Start with an image at least 1080 pixels on its shortest side.
- Use 4:5 portrait posts to take up more vertical space in the feed.
- Need a perfect circle for a profile picture? Use the Circle shape in the Crop tab and export as PNG.
Frequently asked questions
What size should an Instagram post be?
A square Instagram post is 1080×1080 pixels (1:1). Portrait posts are 1080×1350 (4:5) and landscape are 1080×566 (1.91:1). Square is the safest default.
What size is an Instagram story or reel?
Stories and reels are 1080×1920 pixels, a 9:16 vertical ratio. Keep important content away from the top and bottom where the interface overlaps.
Why does Instagram crop my photos?
Instagram crops images that do not match its supported ratios. Cropping to 1:1 or 4:5 before uploading guarantees your photo appears exactly as you intend.
Does cropping reduce photo quality?
No — cropping removes the area outside your selection but keeps the resolution of what remains. Upload at 1080 pixels wide or more for the sharpest result.