How People Post 9:16 Ratio Photos on Instagram?
Dec 29,2025 By Mira 
People post 9:16 ratio photos on Instagram mainly by uploading them to Stories and Reels, because these formats are made for full-screen vertical content. They simply take a vertical photo (1080 × 1920), open Instagram, choose Story or Reel, select the photo, and post it, no cropping needed.
If they want to post a 9:16 photo on the feed, they first resize it using apps like Canva or InShot, or add borders so it fits Instagram’s 4:5 feed limit. This way, the photo stays complete without getting cut off.
Instagram favors tall, full-screen photos, which is why the 9:16 ratio is so popular. Many users get confused when their vertical photos are cropped because Instagram supports different sizes for feeds, Stories, and Reels. Once you know where and how to post, sharing 9:16 photos is actually very easy.
What does the 9:16 ratio mean on Instagram?
The 9:16 ratio means a vertical photo.In simple words, the photo is taller than it is wide.
- Width: 9 units
- Height: 16 units
This ratio fits perfectly on phone screens. Since most people use Instagram on their phones, this format feels natural and immersive. Instagram didn’t invent this ratio, but it became popular because smartphones are vertical by default.
Why People Prefer 9:16 photos on Instagram?
People love 9:16 photos because:
- They fill the whole screen
- They grab more attention
- They increase engagement
- They work well for Stories, Reels, and ads
Vertical content feels more personal, like you’re talking directly to the viewer. That’s why creators, brands, and influencers all use it.
Instagram-supported photo sizes Explained
Before learning How people post 9:16 ratio photos on instagram?, you need to understand Instagram sizes.
Feed post sizes
Instagram feed supports:
- Landscape: 1.91:1
Story & Reel sizes
Stories and Reels are made for 9:16.
9:16 size: 1080 × 1920 pixels
Used For:
This is where 9:16 shines the most.
Also Read, How to choose Perfect Instagram Image Size!
How People Post 9:16 ratio photos on instagram? (Step-by-step)
Now let’s get to the main question:
Here are the most common and easiest methods.
1. Taking photos directly from phone camera
Most phones already shoot in a vertical format.
Steps:
- Open your phone camera.
- Hold the phone vertically
- Take the photo
Upload it to:
- Instagram Reel
This works perfectly without any editing.
2. Posting 9:16 photos as Instagram Stories
This is the most popular method.
Steps:
- Tap Share
That’s it. No cropping needed.
3. Using Instagram crop feature for feed
Some people still want to post 9:16 photos on their feed.
Here’s how they do it:
- Instagram will auto-crop it to 4:5
4. Adding borders to fit the feed
To avoid cropping, people add borders.
How it works:
- The 9:16 photo stays intact.
- White or blurred borders are added.
- Final image fits 4:5 or 1:1
This trick is very popular with photographers.
5. Using design apps before uploading
- Many people prepare their photos before posting.
- They resize, adjust, and export the photo as Instagram-friendly.
- This gives better control and no surprises.
Final thoughts
Now you clearly understand How people post 9:16 ratio photos on instagram?
In short:
- Proper sizing boosts engagement
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Jan 05, 2026
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25 day agomiss Mahi jatvani
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25 day agomiss Mahi jatvani
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25 day agomiss Mahi jatvani