Jenny O'Brien January 22, 2025 A 4 minute read

Mastering Instagram’s New Grid Format: Tips for Transitioning to Portrait Posts in 2025

In our last post, we covered Instagram’s shift to support portrait-oriented posts (1080 x 1350 pixels, 4:5 ratio) on the grid. This change has caught many by surprise, but it’s also a golden opportunity to make your content stand out.

For businesses and creators, the transition can feel a bit daunting—but don’t worry. We’re here to guide you through the process and help you make the most of Instagram’s new format. Whether you’re starting from scratch or need to refresh your current content, this post has everything you need to take the next step.

Why You Can’t Ignore This Change

If you’re still posting square 1:1 images exclusively, you might already notice they’re less impactful compared to taller posts taking up more space in the feed. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about keeping up with Instagram’s evolving platform.

Portrait-oriented posts:

  • Draw More Attention: The larger size ensures your content stands out in the feed.
  • Boost Engagement: Posts that catch the eye are more likely to receive likes, comments, and shares.
  • Showcase More Detail: Taller posts give you extra space to highlight products, text, or creative designs.

Step 1: Audit Your Content

Start by taking stock of your existing Instagram posts. While square posts will still appear on your profile, the transition to portrait-oriented content is about creating a consistent and modern look.

  • Identify Key Posts to Rework: Are there popular square posts you could redesign for the taller format?
  • Plan Your Feed Aesthetic: Portrait posts take up more vertical space, so think about how they’ll fit into your current grid style.

Step 2: Optimise Your Future Posts

To make the most of the new format, your content should prioritise high-quality visuals and smart design. Here are a few tips:

  1. Stick to 4:5 Ratios: Instagram’s portrait posts should be 1080 x 1350 pixels. Ensure your images and graphics fit this ratio to avoid awkward cropping.
  2. Use the Extra Space Wisely: The taller format gives you more room to tell a story. Add text overlays, highlight key details, or showcase a series of products within the frame.
  3. Focus on Composition: With more space to work with, consider the placement of key elements like your subject, branding, or call-to-action.

Step 3: Refresh Your Strategy

Adapting to Instagram’s new format isn’t just about resizing your images—it’s an opportunity to rethink your approach to content creation.

  • Experiment with Layouts: Portrait posts offer more room for creativity. Try split-image designs, bold text, or showcasing products at different angles.
  • Prioritise High-Impact Visuals: The larger size means blurry or poorly lit images will stand out for the wrong reasons. Focus on professional-quality photography or graphics.
  • Update Carousels: When using multiple images, ensure the first post in your carousel is portrait-sized to capture attention in the feed.

Step 4: Use Tools to Simplify the Transition

The switch to portrait posts doesn’t have to be overwhelming. There are plenty of tools to help you plan and execute your new strategy:

  • Canva: Ideal for creating custom designs at 1080 x 1350 pixels.
  • Adobe Lightroom: Perfect for editing and resizing photos professionally.
  • Preview or Planoly: Visualise how portrait posts will fit into your grid before publishing.

At O’Brien Media, we use these tools and more to ensure our Social Media Marketing clients’ content is always polished and on-trend.

How We’re Helping Our Clients Adapt

For our Social Media Marketing customers, we’re already rolling out portrait posts as part of their Instagram strategies. Here’s how we’re supporting the transition:

  • Customised Designs: We’re creating posts specifically designed to maximise the impact of the 4:5 format.
  • Feed Audits: Our team reviews your current grid to identify opportunities for improvement and ensure a seamless transition.
  • Engagement Optimisation: We’re crafting posts that don’t just look good but drive results, whether that’s clicks, comments, or sales.

If you’re not yet working with us, now’s the perfect time to get in touch. Let us take the hassle out of adapting to Instagram’s changes.

Step 5: Keep Your Audience in the Loop

Don’t forget to let your followers know you’re updating your strategy! This is a great chance to refresh your profile’s look and remind your audience why they love following you.

Final Thoughts

Instagram’s shift to portrait posts is more than just a design update—it’s a chance to stand out in a crowded feed and take your content strategy to the next level. With the right approach, you can turn this change into a powerful advantage for your brand.

At O’Brien Media, we’re here to help you make the most of every opportunity on Instagram. If you’d like tailored advice or support with your social media marketing, get in touch today—we’d love to help you navigate this exciting new update!