OVERLAY CROP GUIDE
Best Image Sizes for Instagram Posts and Carousels
Updated June 19, 2026
Choosing the output ratio before alignment prevents later recropping. The right format depends on whether the image will appear in a feed post, carousel, story, or reel cover.
Square posts
A 1:1 ratio is predictable and works well for grids, product sets, and simple comparisons. A common output is 1080 × 1080 pixels.
Portrait feed posts
A 4:5 ratio uses more vertical screen space while remaining suitable for feed posts. A practical output is 1080 × 1350 pixels. Keep important text and faces away from the extreme edges.
Stories and reel covers
A 9:16 canvas such as 1080 × 1920 pixels fits full-screen vertical content. Remember that interface elements can cover the top and bottom, so keep essential content near the center.
Carousel consistency
Use the same ratio for every image in a carousel. Aligning and exporting the entire set together prevents unexpected zooming or inconsistent subject placement.
FAQ
Should every carousel image use the same ratio?
Yes. A consistent ratio avoids awkward automatic cropping and makes swiping feel smoother.
Is a larger file always better?
No. Extremely large files may be recompressed. Start with a clean source and export near the intended publishing size.
Overlay image crop editor
Upload your original and edited photos, lower the top image opacity, then align facial features or fixed background points. Every exported image uses the same crop ratio and pixel dimensions.
Start cropping