Have you noticed an Instagram Profile Grid Change? Instagram is testing a new profile grid layout that uses rectangular images instead of squares.
The new layout favors vertical images with a 4:5 ratio and taller videos that users typically upload to Instagram.
What should you know about this new taller layout as you create Instagram content for your business?
Instagram Profile Grid Change
The new rectangular Instagram profile grid change prioritizes a layout with vertical images (4:5 ratio or taller videos) and could impact how you approach content creation.
I have a few tips on how to make the most of this change!
1. Optimize Aspect Ratios
- Photos: Adjust your photo editing workflow to favor vertical images with a 4:5 or taller aspect ratio. This format will appear larger and more prominent in the grid.
- New Size: Best new size for your images is 1080 x 1350 (4:5 tall).
- Videos: Use vertical videos that fill the frame (9:16 aspect ratio), especially if your content includes Reels or Stories repurposed for the feed.
2. Update Your Branding Guidelines
- Ensure that logos, text overlays, and branding elements are centered and positioned to suit vertical layouts.
- Test the visibility of key design elements to ensure they look professional in the new taller format.
3. Plan Grid Aesthetics
- Consider how the taller posts will interact with the overall grid layout. Use tools like Instagram preview planners to maintain a cohesive look.
- Design complementary backgrounds or borders if needed to integrate square content into the taller layout seamlessly.
4. Focus on Visual Storytelling
- Taller layouts provide more visual space, which is ideal for storytelling or displaying vertical panoramas.
- Use the extra height to emphasize products, step-by-step tutorials, or dynamic action shots.
5. Leverage Carousel Posts
- Create carousel posts with consistent vertical dimensions to engage users who swipe through multiple images.
- Ensure the first slide is eye-catching to encourage swiping and interaction.
6. Test for Engagement
- Monitor how the taller layout affects engagement. Test different types of posts to determine what resonates with your audience.
- Compare analytics on vertical posts vs. square posts to refine your strategy.
7. Revisit Video Strategies
- Vertical videos will appear larger in the feed and grid. Use this space to highlight key elements or showcase high-quality footage.
- Emphasize hooks within the first few seconds of videos to maximize viewer retention.
8. Update Existing Content
- Audit your existing content to identify posts that may look awkward in the taller grid.
- Adjust captions and featured images to suit the new layout if necessary.
Test the Instagram Profile Grid Change
Instagram is still testing this feature, so keep an eye on updates and pay attention to feedback you might get from other users.
When I heard this was coming, I started to adapt content strategies for my business and for my clients.
It’s best to be proactive as Instagram fine-tunes this new format!
By embracing this new layout early, you can position yourself as a forward-thinking creator while maximizing the impact of your Instagram profile.
Contact Marcie Wolf with any questions you might have!