Image Formats for Instagram, LinkedIn & Facebook – The Right Image Sizes for 2025
If you want to be visible on social media, you should not only post good content but also pay attention to the right image format. Incorrect image sizes can cause a motif to be cropped, quality to suffer, or the image not to be displayed optimally.
Each platform has its own requirements for image format – an Instagram post requires different dimensions than a LinkedIn banner or a Facebook story. Especially for companies that use social media professionally or work with an online marketing agency, it is important to know the right formats.
In this article, you will find an overview of the current image formats for Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook. This ensures that your images appear in the best quality and your content looks professional.
Instagram Image Formats
Instagram is one of the most important platforms for visual content. For images to be displayed optimally in the feed, in Instagram Stories or as an Instagram Reel, they must have the right image format. Adapting to different screen sizes is particularly important, as many users consume content on their smartphones.
Instagram Post
A classic Instagram post can be uploaded in three formats: square, portrait or landscape. The ideal image size depends on which format is chosen.
Square: 1080 × 1080 pixels
Portrait: 1080 × 1350 pixels
Landscape: 1080 × 566 pixels
Portrait images take up more space in the feed and stand out more. It is important that Instagram scales all images to 1080 pixels in width – a lower resolution can lead to blurry displays.
Instagram Reel
Instagram Reels are short videos in portrait format that are displayed in the feed and in the dedicated Reels view. The recommended image format for a reel is:
1080 × 1920 pixels (aspect ratio 9:16)
Since Reels also appear as a preview in the regular feed, the central area of the video is displayed there in a 4:5 format (1080 × 1350 pixels). When creating, make sure that no important elements are placed at the edges, as they would otherwise be cropped in the feed.
Instagram Story
For an Instagram Story, portrait format is also recommended, as Stories are displayed full-screen on mobile devices. The best image size is:
1080 × 1920 pixels (aspect ratio 9:16)
Text and important elements should not be placed too close to the edge, as Instagram overlays UI elements such as the account name or the reply function in the top and bottom zones.
LinkedIn Image Formats
LinkedIn is the most important social network for professional contacts and companies. Whether for a personal profile, a company page or posts in the feed – the right image format ensures a professional presentation. Since LinkedIn is displayed differently on various devices, it is important to upload images in an optimal size.
LinkedIn Post / Update
Images in LinkedIn posts appear both in the desktop feed and in the mobile app. An incorrect image format can cause important content to be cropped. The recommended image size for a LinkedIn post is:
1200 × 627 pixels (aspect ratio 1.91:1)
Square or portrait images can also be used, but they may then appear cropped.
LinkedIn Banner
The banner image is located at the top of the profile or company page and makes a first impression on visitors. Since LinkedIn crops the banner differently on various devices, the design should be centred. The recommended image size for the banner is:
1584 × 396 pixels (for personal profiles)
1128 × 191 pixels (for company pages)
It is important that no text or logos are too close to the edge, as LinkedIn automatically adjusts the image on smaller screens.
LinkedIn Profile Picture
The profile picture is the central element on LinkedIn, whether for an individual or a company. To ensure the photo is displayed in high quality, it should be at least the following size:
400 × 400 pixels (square)
LinkedIn automatically crops the image into a circle, so important elements should not be placed too close to the edges. A professional, well-lit photo is essential for a credible appearance.
Facebook Image Formats
Facebook remains one of the most important platforms for companies, brands and private users. For images in posts, profiles or as cover photos to be displayed optimally, they must have the right image sizes. Especially for mobile users, an incorrect image format can cause content to be cropped or displayed blurry.
Facebook Post
Images in Facebook posts should have a high resolution to appear sharp both on desktop and in the mobile view. The recommended image size for a Facebook post is:
1200 × 630 pixels (aspect ratio 1.91:1)
Portrait images can attract more attention in the feed. If you prefer square images, you can use a size of 1080 × 1080 pixels.
Facebook Cover Photo
The cover photo is one of the first elements visitors see on a profile or company page. Since Facebook crops the cover photo differently on various devices, it should be large enough and have no important content at the edges. The ideal image size for the cover photo is:
820 × 312 pixels (for desktop)
640 × 360 pixels (for mobile view)
Since the cover photo is displayed differently on smartphones than on desktop, text or logos should be placed in the centre.
Facebook Profile Picture
The profile picture is displayed as a circle on Facebook, so it is important that all essential content is located in the centre of the image. The recommended minimum size for a Facebook profile picture is:
170 × 170 pixels (for desktop)
128 × 128 pixels (for mobile devices)
For a sharper display, a larger image size is recommended, as Facebook often compresses images.
Conclusion
The right image format plays a decisive role in the quality and impact of social media posts. Whether on Instagram, LinkedIn or Facebook – each platform has its own requirements for image sizes to ensure an optimal display.
Anyone who uses incorrect image sizes risks blurry or cropped displays, which can appear unprofessional. Especially companies and brands that use social media for marketing or work with an online marketing agency should make sure to upload their content in the right formats.
A well-optimised image format not only ensures a better look, but can also increase reach. Users stay longer with appealing content, which can boost interaction with posts.
Whether it's an Instagram post, a LinkedIn banner or a Facebook cover photo – the right image sizes make the difference. Anyone who keeps the current specifications in mind and adapts their content accordingly leaves a professional impression and improves the visibility of their brand.