Instagram recently updated its photo format. Since August 2024, the platform has been testing a 4:5 ratio for images, which has now been rolled out to more users in recent days. This shift from the traditional square shape to a more rectangular format may disrupt your carefully planned feed design.

If you manage an account that focuses on visual appeal, this change could be frustrating. The new rectangular shape may throw off your perfectly symmetrical grid, and if you’re used to the square format, it might feel like a step backward. The visual flow of your feed suddenly feels off, and trying to make each post fit perfectly can be a headache.

On my end, the 4:5 format only appears on mobile, but not yet on the website version.

Why the Change?

It’s unclear whether this 4:5 aspect ratio is permanent or just another temporary test, but Instagram has been making a lot of shifts recently. It seems like changes are happening faster than we can keep up with. First, it was the introduction of Reels, then the ongoing adjustments to their algorithm, and now this new photo format. With TikTok facing bans in some regions, and Instagram’s ongoing changes, I am left wondering: What’s next for the social media landscape?

The move to a rectangle might be Instagram’s response to the shift in how content is consumed. People are posting more vertical videos and Stories, which naturally fit the taller, more rectangular shape. However, this change is far from ideal for those of us who take pride in curating an Instagram feed with a specific look.

How Does This Impact Your Instagram Feed Design?

If you’ve worked hard on building a visually consistent Instagram feed, the 4:5 photo ratio could feel like a setback. Each image now takes up a slightly taller space, which may mess with your grid’s neatness. For users who depend on balance and symmetry, it’s more than just an aesthetic inconvenience – it’s a design challenge.

But don’t worry, there are still ways to make this work. You can adjust your photo compositions by incorporating more negative space or even experimenting with borders. If you’re unsure about how to adjust your style to fit the new format, consider looking at other accounts that have embraced this change. It could give you inspiration on how to make this work without completely overhauling your feed.

Should You Be Worried?

As of now, it’s unclear if the change is permanent or just a temporary experiment by Instagram. The company often tests new features, so this format could change again or revert to the square shape. For now, it’s a wait-and-see situation. Stay updated on what the platform rolls out next.

In the ever-evolving world of social media, it’s hard to predict what will happen next. But one thing is for sure: the platforms we use are constantly changing. Whether it’s Instagram, TikTok, or any other app, the key is to stay flexible and adapt to these shifts. After all, it’s the ability to evolve with the trends that keeps your content relevant and engaging.

Final Thoughts

The recent 4:5 photo format change on Instagram might seem minor, but for those focused on perfecting their feed design, it’s worth noting. While we don’t know if it’s permanent, adjusting to new formats is part of the social media experience. The best thing you can do is experiment with the new layout, find what works, and roll with the changes. Who knows what Instagram will throw at us next?