Instagram continues to evolve, making updates that enhance user experience and content presentation. One of the latest changes affects how carousel posts are displayed and structured. If you’re wondering how to post multiple image sizes on Instagram without unwanted cropping, this guide will help you navigate Instagram’s latest updates and optimize your posts.
Instagram’s New Update for Posts
With its latest update, Instagram now allows users to post up to 20 images or videos in a single carousel, doubling the previous limit of 10.
However, there is still a restriction. All images in a carousel must have the same aspect ratio to maintain consistency. If you upload images of varying sizes, Instagram will automatically crop them to fit a uniform format, which may alter their original appearance. Additionally, the thumbnail on your profile grid now appears in a 4:5 ratio instead of the previous 1:1 square format. This means that even if you upload a square image, it will be cropped when displayed on your profile.
How To Post Multiple Image Sizes On Instagram?
Using Canva
Since Instagram enforces a consistent aspect ratio for carousel posts, using Canva to resize the image is a great idea to make your profile appealing at the same time.
1. Open Canva and Create a New Design
- Click on “Create a Design” and choose Custom Size.
- Or else, set the dimensions to 1080 x 1350 pixels (4:5) or 1080 x 1080 pixels (1:1) based on your preferred aspect ratio.
2. Upload Your Images: Drag and drop your photos into Canva or click “Uploads” to add images from your device.
3. Resize and Adjust Your Images
- If your image does not fit the selected aspect ratio, resize it by dragging the corners.
- Use the “Position” tool to center your image and adjust its placement.
4. Add a Background or Borders (if needed)
- To avoid cropping important details, you can add a background color or a blurred version of the image behind the main photo.
- Click “Elements” > “Shapes” to add a white or colored border around your image for a clean, uniform look.
5. Download and Upload to Instagram
- Once all images are properly resized, click “Download” and select PNG or JPG for high-quality output.
- Upload the images in a carousel post on Instagram, ensuring all images maintain a consistent aspect ratio.
Using Third Party Platform
If you want to post a wide image that seamlessly transitions across multiple slides in a carousel, you can use tools like Kapwing or PanoramaCrop for Insta to split the image. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Choose Your Image: Select a wide image (16:9 or larger) that you want to split into multiple parts for a smooth scrolling effect in an Instagram carousel.
2.1. Use PanoramaCrop for Insta (Mobile)
- Download & Open the App: Install PanoramaCrop for Insta from the App Store or Google Play.
- Select Your Image: Upload the wide image you want to split.
- Choose the Number of Slides: The app lets you split the image into 2, 3, 4, or more sections while keeping a seamless transition.
- Adjust & Save: The app automatically crops and aligns the sections. Save them to your gallery.
2.2. Use Pinetools (Web-Based Tool)
- Go to Pinetools.com and open the “Split Image” tool.
- Upload Your Wide Image.
- Select Number of Splits: Choose how many slides you want (e.g., 2-5, depending on the image’s width).
- Download Each Section: Save the cropped sections in order.
4. Upload to Instagram
- Open Instagram and create a new carousel post.
- Select the split images in order to ensure a seamless panoramic effect.
- Post and enjoy your smooth swipe-through carousel
Conclusion
While Instagram now allows up to 20 images per post, it still enforces a uniform aspect ratio for carousel images. By using design tools like Canva or third-party apps, you can maintain the integrity of your images and avoid unwanted cropping.
FAQs
Why can’t I post multiple image sizes on Instagram?
Instagram requires all images in a carousel post to have the same aspect ratio. If your images have different sizes, Instagram will automatically crop them to match the chosen format.
Can I post a 1:1 image when Instagram displays 4:5?
Yes, you can still upload 1:1 images, but the thumbnail on your profile will be cropped to a 4:5 ratio automatically. However, when viewed in full screen, your original image size remains intact.
What if I upload images in different orientations (landscape and portrait)
Instagram will crop them to fit the selected aspect ratio. It’s best to resize all images to match a uniform format, such as 4:5 or 1:1, to avoid unwanted cropping.