
Instagram is evolving once again, and this time, it’s going fully vertical. As the platform continues to prioritize immersive, mobile-first experiences, vertical content is taking center stage—impacting everything from Reels to static posts and even carousel formats.
For interior designers, real estate professionals, and photographers, this shift presents both challenges and opportunities. So, how does the push for vertical content affect interior photography, and how can you adapt to stay ahead?
Let’s dive in.
Instagram’s move towards vertical content isn’t surprising. With the rise of short-form video and mobile-first experiences, platforms like TikTok and YouTube Shorts have shaped the way users consume content. Vertical formats keep users engaged, create a more immersive experience, and maximize screen space—especially on mobile devices.
What does that mean in practice?
Reels and Stories dominate the algorithm, reducing the visibility of traditional square or landscape posts.
Vertical carousels are now more impactful, as Instagram experiments with full-screen swipeable posts.
Static images are adapting, with Instagram subtly encouraging taller aspect ratios over the classic 1:1 format.
For industries like interior design and real estate, where wide-angle photography has always been the standard, this shift calls for new creative approaches.
The Challenge for Interior Photography
Most interior photography has traditionally been shot in landscape mode to capture the full depth and scale of a space. Wide-angle shots highlight room layouts, furniture arrangements, and architectural details—things that may now be harder to showcase in a vertical-first format.
Fitting Entire Rooms into a Vertical Frame
Standard landscape shots don’t translate well to full-screen vertical formats.
Maintaining Image Quality
Cropping a landscape image into a vertical format often leads to loss of key details.
Shifting Away From Traditional Composition
Interior photography is carefully composed for balance—adjusting for a vertical frame requires rethinking angles and framing.
Since ignoring Instagram’s vertical evolution isn’t an option, adapting your interior photography strategy is crucial. Here’s how you can make it work:
1. Shoot with Vertical Formats in Mind
When capturing interior spaces, take both landscape and portrait shots.
Use 16:9 or 4:5 ratios for static posts and 9:16 for Reels to maximize visibility.
If needed, shoot at slightly wider angles so you can crop later without losing details.
Showcase interior spaces with slow, cinematic vertical pans.
Use vertical timelapses to highlight transformations, renovations, or decor updates.
Try walkthrough-style videos to immerse viewers in the space.
3. Use Smart Cropping & Framing
Instead of force-cropping a landscape image, capture vertical compositions on-site.
Focus on key design details (e.g., stunning lighting fixtures, statement furniture pieces, or texture close-ups).
Experiment with split carousels, breaking up a landscape shot into two stacked vertical images.
4. Optimize Carousels for a Vertical Flow
Tell a story with progressive carousels—starting with a dramatic full-room shot and leading into close-up details.
Make use of seamless carousel effects, where multiple vertical images blend into one continuous scene.
Add animated text overlays to describe features in Reels.
Utilize interactive stickers in Stories to boost engagement.
Experiment with filters and presets that enhance the mood of an interior space.
As Instagram continues its shift towards vertical-first content, the way interiors are showcased will evolve too. Interior designers, photographers, and real estate marketers who embrace this trend will gain a competitive edge, reaching wider audiences and boosting engagement.
By rethinking angles, incorporating vertical video, and strategically using Instagram’s carousel and Reels features, you can continue to showcase stunning interior spaces in a way that feels fresh, engaging, and aligned with Instagram’s evolving platform.
Ready to optimize your Instagram content for the vertical era? Our social media agency specializes in helping brands adapt and thrive—contact us today to refine your Instagram strategy!
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