Poor picture quality when sharing pictures to Instagram

Last Update date : Apr 28. 2026

When you upload photos to Instagram, the app automatically adjusts image size and resolution based on its supported formats. This may cause your pictures to appear cropped or reduced in quality.

Check Instagram’s supported image dimensions

Instagram supports the following aspect ratios:

  • 1:1 (square)
  • 4:5 (portrait)
  • 1.91:1 (landscape)
  • 9:16 (vertical/full screen)
  • Images outside these ratios may be cropped automatically.

Adjust your image before uploading

  • Resize or crop your image to match one of the supported ratios.
  • This helps prevent unwanted cropping or distortion.

 

Instagram horizontal and vertical picture standards

Set the correct image width

  • Instagram compresses images to a maximum width of 1080 pixels.
  • If your image exceeds this, it will be resized, which may reduce quality.
  • For best results, set your image width to 1080 pixels before uploading.

Notes:

  • Always use the latest version of the Instagram app for best performance.
  • High-resolution images may appear lower in quality due to compression.
  • Device menus and editing options may vary depending on model and software version.

How to use the Samsung Members app

If you are experiencing difficulties with your Samsung mobile, tablet, or wearables, you can send us a question in the Samsung Members app. Find out more about sending an error report.

Thank you for your feedback!