Visual Mastery: The Perfect Instagram Aspect Ratio

Instagram has become a popular platform for brands to promote their products and services, with 90% of Instagram users following a business profile. It has become a powerful marketing tool for advertisers to promote their brands and reach potential customers. And one of the critical aspects that advertisers need to consider when creating an Instagram ad is the ad size and aspect ratio. But what exactly is the aspect ratio, and how can you find it for your ad creative?

Aspect ratio refers to the proportional relationship between the width and height of an image or video. A mismatch in aspect ratio can lead to distortion or cropping of the image or video, which can affect the overall visual appeal of the ad. Therefore, it's crucial to determine the correct aspect ratio for your Instagram ad creative.

Since Instagram ads are displayed differently on different devices, the aspect ratio ensures your ad looks well crafted.

Instagram Aspect Ratio Guide

When creating video content for Instagram, it is recommended to design with mobile users in mind. Utilizing vertical video with taller aspect ratios can create a more impactful and engaging video. Facebook, Instagram, and Audience Network support various aspect ratios, ranging from 16:9 to 9:16.?

By choosing a taller aspect ratio, one can effectively use the full screen of mobile devices. This can capture the viewer's attention and create a more immersive experience. The provided depictions highlight the benefits of utilizing taller aspect ratios and showcase the varying shapes supported by the platforms.

Determining the aspect ratio of an image is a crucial step in preparing visual content for various platforms. To determine the aspect ratio:

1. Identify the image's dimensions in pixels. These can typically be found in the file information or through editing software.
2. The relationship between the width (first number) and the height (second number) can be calculated once the dimensions are known. For instance:

a. If an image has dimensions of 1600 pixels x 900 pixels or 3200 pixels x 1800 pixels, it falls into the 16:9 aspect ratio.?

b. On the other hand, if the image has dimensions of 1600 pixels x 1600 pixels or 3200 pixels x 3200 pixels, it falls into the 1:1 aspect ratio.

Advertisers can customize their ad creative for different placements through Meta Ads Manager. They can choose from creating a new ad, using an existing post, or using the Creative Hub mockup. They can add media and change the image aspect ratio or focal point. Additionally, they can optimize their media for their audience and select the best version.?

By understanding an image's aspect ratio and Instagram ad sizes, advertisers and brands can ensure their visuals are optimized for different platforms and maintain the desired composition.

Why Instagram Aspect Ratio Matters More Than You Think

To create effective mobile ads on Instagram, it's essential to consider the appropriate Instagram aspect ratio and placement options. Advertisers should aim to use visually appealing content suitable for the various formats and placements available while covering as much screen space as possible. Designing mobile-first videos is highly recommended, and vertical video (4:5, 2:3, and 9:16) is particularly engaging since people typically hold their phones upright. Facebook, Instagram, and Audience Network support aspect ratios ranging from 16:9 to 9:16.

Advertisers can enhance their ads' effectiveness by selecting the correct Instagram aspect ratio for each placement and staying updated with any changes in placement options. A/B testing and improvement of ad creatives are essential for advertisers to achieve better business results. With these tips in mind, advertisers can create visually compelling ads that successfully reach their target audiences on Instagram.

Dive into our blog and uncover the must-know Instagram ad specs for creating thumb-stopping ads.