Be There, Just Don’t Be Square: Instagram’s Big Move to Portrait Mode

In a world where attention spans are shrinking and competition for visibility is fiercer than ever, Jules Brim, social media and marketing expert, is urging small businesses to move with the times or risk being left behind. Instagram’s latest update isn’t just a small tweak, it’s a major shift that changes the way brands show up online with the platform ditching its signature square posts, making portrait mode the default format across grids. The result? More screen space, greater visibility, and a fresh opportunity to stop the scroll.

Jules says, “Instagram is no longer just about pretty pictures and if you want your content to have an impact, you have to adapt. The shift to portrait mode is a wake-up call; strong branding, storytelling, and consistency have never been more important, and this isn’t just about keeping up, it’s about staying ahead.”

With AI tools evolving at lightning speed, the chaos caused by DeepSeek last week proving how quickly things can shift, and algorithms constantly changing, brands must focus on what really matters, cutting through the noise and making content work harder. The move to portrait mode gives businesses a better chance of doing just that and by filling the screen, posts become more immersive, helping brands grab attention and increase engagement.

“Your Instagram grid is your digital shopfront,” adds Jules. “This update is about more than just aesthetics, it’s a chance to refine your strategy, tell your brand’s story more effectively, and show up in a way that keeps your audience engaged.”

To support creators through this transition, Instagram has announced further updates:

• Customisable thumbnails will allow businesses to refine their grid appearance.
• Story highlights will be integrated into the grid for better visibility.
• A free grid arrangement feature will let users organise posts to align with seasonal content and long-term strategy.

Jules has been preparing clients for this shift since 2024, ensuring content strategies remain ahead of the curve and by designing portrait-friendly templates that maintain a strong grid aesthetic, she has helped brands navigate change without needing to overhaul their entire feed. “We’ve always focused on storytelling as the foundation of great content,” she explains. “This update only reinforces that and brands that get this right will stand out, while those who resist the change will get left behind.”

For businesses, the message is clear: Instagram isn’t slowing down, and neither should they and for those that adapt quickly, focus on quality content, and embrace the new format will be the ones that continue to thrive.

For more details visit https://www.julesbrim.co.uk/small-and-mightyfor or explore www.julesbrim.co.uk

Image by Jules Brim.