Understanding Instagram video dimensions can feel like navigating a maze, but I’ll break it down into simple, actionable insights that will help you create stunning content that looks perfect on every device.
Instagram Feed Video Dimensions
The standard Instagram feed supports videos with a 1:1 square ratio (1080×1080 pixels), but you can also post vertical videos up to 4:5 (1080×1350 pixels) or horizontal videos at 16:9 (1080×608 pixels). Think of it like choosing the right frame for a photograph – you want your content to fit perfectly without any awkward cropping.
Instagram Stories and Reels
Stories and Reels prefer a full-screen vertical format with a 9:16 ratio (1080×1920 pixels). I always tell my friends to imagine their smartphone screen as a canvas – that’s exactly how your video should be formatted. This dimension gives you maximum screen real estate and creates an immersive viewing experience.
Instagram IGTV Specifications
For longer-form content, IGTV videos can be uploaded in either portrait (9:16) or landscape (16:9) orientation. The minimum length is 1 minute, and you can post videos up to 60 minutes when uploading from the web. Just remember that most viewers will watch on mobile, so vertical format typically performs better.
Best Practices for Video Quality
Here’s a tip I always share: encode your videos at a high bitrate (at least 3500 kbps for 1080p) to maintain quality after Instagram’s compression. The platform supports frame rates up to 30fps, though some creators are successfully uploading 60fps content in 2025.
File Size and Length Limitations
Keep in mind that Instagram has specific file size limits:
– Stories: 4GB maximum
– Feed posts: 4GB maximum
– IGTV: 3.6GB maximum
– Reels: 4GB maximum
I’ve found that keeping videos under 100MB usually ensures smooth uploading and processing. Think of it like packing a suitcase – you want to fit everything in without exceeding the weight limit.
Future-Proofing Your Content
As we move through 2025, Instagram continues to evolve its video capabilities. I recommend always recording in the highest quality possible, then creating different versions optimized for each placement. This way, you’ll have maximum flexibility for repurposing content across different features and maintaining quality across all formats.
Remember, while these specifications are important, the most engaging content is always about telling a compelling story. Focus on creating valuable content first, then adapt it to fit these technical requirements. Your audience will appreciate the effort you put into delivering a polished, professional viewing experience.
