Instagram Update: New Aspect Ratio

Things in the digital space undergo evolution very quickly and apps like Instagram are no exception. For instance, if you consider the aspect ratio, what started from 1:1 transformed to 4:5, and now they’re considering changing it again to a taller 9:16 version. In today’s video, content creator Peter McKinnon talks about this new update from Instagram and how it will potentially impact you and your photography:

If we look at Instagram over the years, we can see how it has transformed from a photo-centric platform to a video-centric platform. With the introduction of the Reels feature, the emphasis on vertical videos has become even greater. And thanks to the massive adoption of vertical content, Instagram is soon looking to roll out the 9:16 photo format for its feed.

So, how will this decision impact your photos? McKinnon uses the crop tool in Lightroom to give you a glimpse of how the decision will impact your photos. And as you can see in the video, the 9:16 aspect ratio shaves a lot less out of a portrait image. However, if you’re more into shooting landscapes or lifestyle images, shooting vertical can feel unnatural and even problematic.

Having said that, as McKinnon puts it, having an image that utilizes most of the screen does make the image appear much better. This way, you can present the best aspects and intricacies in the image in a much better way.

What do you think about this move by Instagram? We’d also like to know if this will have any impact on the way you take your photos or not? So, please feel free to share your thoughts and comments below.

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