Instagram Now Supports 3:4 Photos: What It Means for Your Uploads

Are you wondering how to upload photos to Instagram without cropping them? Or maybe you're curious about the latest Instagram aspect ratio update? Instagram now supports photos with a 3:4 aspect ratio, allowing users to share images exactly as they capture them on their phones. This new feature means no more automatic cropping or forced resizing when posting vertical photos, making your content look more natural and visually appealing.

Since most smartphones default to a 3:4 ratio when taking pictures, this update aligns Instagram with the way users actually shoot photos. Previously, Instagram supported 4:5 and square aspect ratios, which often cut off parts of the original image. Now, your vertical photos maintain their full composition, enhancing user experience and giving creators more freedom to showcase their content authentically.

How Instagram’s 3:4 Aspect Ratio Enhances Your Feed

Instagram’s latest move follows its January update that transformed profile grids from uniform squares to rectangular tiles. This change reflects a broader trend where vertical photos and videos dominate social media feeds. By officially supporting the 3:4 aspect ratio, Instagram ensures your feed appears dynamic and less constrained by traditional square formats.

Whether you’re posting a single image or a carousel, this aspect ratio update works seamlessly, meaning you can keep your entire photo visible without losing important details on the edges. It’s an especially welcome improvement for photographers, influencers, and brands aiming to share high-quality visuals that stand out.

Why This Matters for Creators and Marketers

For marketers and social media managers, Instagram’s expanded photo ratios open up new creative possibilities. Larger, uncropped images can increase engagement by drawing more attention and conveying richer stories.  

Posting 3:4 Photos on Instagram: Quick Tips

• Ensure your photos are captured or cropped in a 3:4 aspect ratio before uploading.

• Mix 3:4 photos with traditional 4:5 and square posts to keep your feed visually engaging.

• Use carousel posts to tell stories with multiple 3:4 images without losing any part of your photos.

• Take advantage of this format for Instagram ads to maximize visual impact and improve click rates.

What’s Next for Instagram?

Instagram’s adoption of 3:4 photos signals its ongoing shift toward mobile-first, vertical content formats that dominate social platforms today. As the platform evolves, expect more tools that help users showcase authentic, uncropped content while offering brands better engagement metrics.

Stay ahead of social media trends by adapting your content to these new formats—your audience and your ad revenue will thank you.