Instagram Video Specs

Instagram Video Specs (Updated for 2023)

1. Instagram Feed Videos

Specifications:

• Aspect Ratio: Between 1.91:1 (landscape) and 4:5 (portrait).
  • Landscape: 1.91:1 (e.g., 1080 x 566 pixels)
  • Square: 1:1 (e.g., 1080 x 1080 pixels)
  • Portrait: 4:5 (e.g., 1080 x 1350 pixels)
• Resolution: Maximum width of 1080 pixels.
• Video Length:
  • Up to 10 minutes for most accounts.
  • Up to 60 minutes for select accounts (often verified or larger accounts).
• File Size:
  • Up to 650 MB for videos under 10 minutes.
  • Up to 3.6 GB for videos up to 60 minutes.
• File Format: MP4 or MOV.
• Frame Rate: Minimum of 30 frames per second (fps).
• Codec: H.264 video codec, AAC audio codec.
• Thumbnail/Cover Image: Recommended size is 420 x 654 pixels (or equivalent aspect ratio).

Best Practices:

• Quality: Use high-resolution videos to ensure clarity and professionalism.
• Orientation: Vertical videos (4:5) take up more screen space and can be more engaging.
• Captions/Subtitles: Include captions since videos autoplay without sound.
• Engagement: Capture attention within the first few seconds to retain viewers.

2. Instagram Stories

Specifications:

• Aspect Ratio: 9:16 (vertical).
• Resolution: 1080 x 1920 pixels.
• Video Length:
  • Up to 60 seconds per Story segment.
  • Videos longer than 60 seconds will be split into multiple segments automatically.
• File Size: Up to 4 GB.
• File Format: MP4 or MOV.
• Frame Rate: Up to 60 fps.
• Codec: H.264 video codec, AAC audio codec. 

Best Practices:

• Interactive Features: Use stickers, polls, quizzes, and questions to engage your audience.
• Visibility: Add location tags, mentions, and hashtags to increase discoverability.
• Design: Keep text and important elements within the safe zone to avoid being cut off.
• Sound: Optimize for both sound-on and sound-off viewing by adding captions or text overlays.

3. Instagram Reels

Specifications:

• Aspect Ratio: 9:16 (vertical).
• Resolution: 1080 x 1920 pixels.
• Video Length:
  • Up to 90 seconds for most users.
  • As of 2023, select accounts may have the ability to post Reels up to 10 minutes long.
• File Size: Up to 4 GB.
• File Format: MP4 or MOV.
• Frame Rate: Minimum of 30 fps, up to 60 fps.
• Codec: H.264 video codec, AAC audio codec. 

Best Practices:

• Trends: Utilize trending music and challenges to increase visibility.
• Content: Focus on engaging, entertaining, or educational content.
• Captions: Add text overlays to convey your message without sound.
• Hashtags: Include relevant hashtags and descriptions to improve discoverability.
• Cover Image: Select an appealing thumbnail to attract viewers.

Additional Notes

Uploading and Scheduling

• Mobile and Desktop: You can upload and schedule videos and Reels from both mobile devices and desktop using Instagram’s web interface or Meta Business Suite.
• Scheduling: Professional accounts can schedule posts and Reels up to 75 days in advance directly within the app or through Meta Business Suite.

File Format Recommendations

• Format: Use MP4 format with H.264 compression and AAC audio for optimal compatibility.
• Bitrate: Maintain a consistent bitrate to ensure video quality (around 3,500 kbps for 1080p videos).

Captions and Accessibility

• Closed Captions: Use Instagram’s auto-caption feature or add captions manually to make content accessible.
• Alt Text: Add alt text to your videos for better accessibility and SEO.

Compliance

• Community Guidelines: Ensure all content complies with Instagram’s policies to avoid removal or penalties.
• Music Licensing: Use music from Instagram’s library or ensure you have rights to any audio included.

Optimizing for Mobile Viewing

• Visual Clarity: Use large, legible text and high-contrast visuals.
• Safe Zones: Keep important elements away from the edges to prevent them from being obscured by interface elements.

Engagement Strategies

• Call-to-Action (CTA): Encourage viewers to like, comment, share, or follow.
• Consistency: Post regularly to maintain audience interest and improve algorithm favorability.
• Analytics: Use Instagram Insights to track performance and adjust your strategy accordingly.