The Skinny on Instagram’s New Skinny Post Size: 5120 x 1080
Instagram just shook things up again — this time with a new post format that’s got marketers, creators, and brands buzzing. The 5120 x 1080 format (yep, that’s five times wider than your usual landscape) is being called the thinnest post size on Instagram. It’s sleek, cinematic, and guaranteed to make people stop mid-scroll just to figure out what’s going on.
So, what’s the big deal? Let’s break it down….
What Is the 5120 x 1080 Format?
Traditional Instagram landscape posts: 1080 x 566 pixels
New ultra-wide format: 5120 x 1080 pixels
In plain English: this is a long, thin, cinematic banner that stretches across your screen in a way nothing else does. Think movie trailer vibes or an ad billboard in your feed.
✅ The Pros: Why You Might Love It
1. Instant Attention Grabber
When every other post is square or vertical, this format disrupts the scroll. People stop, they tilt their heads, and they pay attention.
2. Perfect for Cinematic Content
Brands and creators who lean into storytelling, panoramic images, or product showcases can make this format shine. Imagine:
A long welding arc photo that shows sparks from end to end 🔥
A panoramic shop shot showing your whole team in one frame
Side-by-side comparisons or step-by-step visuals
3. More Room for Creativity
This isn’t just another size. It’s a canvas for creative experiments. Designers can play with wide text layouts, marketers can test ad-style banners, and artists can show off elongated designs that never fit neatly before.
4. Unique Branding Opportunity
Not many people are using it yet. That means if you jump on this now, your content looks fresh, innovative, and ahead of the curve.
⚠️ The Cons: What to Watch Out For
1. Not Every Image Fits
Most brands are sitting on square or vertical visuals. Stretching them to fit this wide format won’t work — you’ll need custom designs or wide-angle photography.
2. Can Be Overwhelming
Too much empty space or poorly balanced designs can make your post look awkward instead of cool. If you’re going wide, commit to it with purpose.
3. Limited Context on Mobile
Since most people use Instagram on mobile, ultra-wide posts shrink vertically. That means your text or details may be harder to read without zooming.
4. Not Ideal for All Content Types
Quick product photos? Memes? Vertical reels? Stick to the classics. The 5120 x 1080 format is more of a special occasionformat than an everyday go-to.
How Can Welders, Fabricators & Small Businesses Use This Format?
This is where it gets exciting for industries like welding and fabrication (yep, that’s where Slag Tag Media lives):
Showcase wide work → Custom metal rails, flatbeds, or art pieces spread across the frame.
Step-by-step tutorials → A single panoramic that breaks down stages of a weld or fabrication.
Team shots → Your whole shop crew in one wide, epic photo.
Event coverage → ScrapFest sculptures, trade show booths, or FabTech shots look killer stretched out.
Pro Tips for Using 5120 x 1080 Posts
Use it sparingly – Think of it as your secret weapon, not your daily driver.
Keep your subject bold and centered – Don’t rely on fine details, because small screens shrink it.
Think cinematic – Wide visuals feel most natural when they mimic film-style storytelling.
Test engagement – See how your audience reacts before building a full strategy around it.
The Bottom Line
The 5120 x 1080 format is more than a gimmick — it’s a new storytelling tool for brands who want to stand out. Used right, it can help you break the scroll, showcase your work in a bold new way, and make your brand feel cutting-edge.
But remember: not every format is for everyone. Keep your strategy balanced, test it out, and lean on formats that deliver consistent results.
Here at Slag Tag Media, we’re all about helping welding companies and small businesses use trends like this in smart ways — not just because they’re shiny and new, but because they actually move the needle. 👉 If you test the new 5120 x 1080 size for your business, let us know how it went! Shoot his a DM on Instagram, We’d love your feedback!
Are you considering Slag Tag Media to help manage your social media? Contact us today to get more info slagtagmedia@gmail.com
