Updated 26 October 2026: AdCreator AI's Shopify app now makes image ads in square (1:1), portrait (4:5) and Stories/Reels (9:16) sizes. 1:1 is the default, and each extra size uses one ad from your allowance. Earlier versions of this post said it made square images only.
Instagram is three placements, not one
An "Instagram ad" is really a set: feed, story, and reels each need their own creative and ratio. Reusing one square across all three is a common reason Instagram ads underperform.
| Placement | Ratio | Size | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feed | 4:5 (or 1:1) | 1080×1350 | Taller 4:5 wins more screen |
| Story | 9:16 | 1080×1920 | Leave room top/bottom for UI |
| Reels | 9:16 | 1080×1920 | Native, motion-first |
Get 5 scroll-stopping captions with hashtags and CTAs — instantly, no signup.
Use the tool free →What stops the scroll
- A thumb-stopping first frame — high contrast, one clear subject, legible small.
- An outcome in the first line, not your brand name.
- Native energy on reels/stories — polished brand spots get skipped; product-in-use clips don't.
And still — test several
Instagram rewards fresh creative. Produce several angles across the placements, run them small, scale the winner. How many to test →
Make the whole set at once
AdCreator AI generates a Shopify product's ad in one go — copy and finished images for feed (1:1 or 4:5) and Stories/Reels (9:16), as many angles as you want on paid plans (1:1 is the default; each extra size uses one ad); narrated video is on the Pro and Agency plans. 6 free a month, no card. Free on the App Store →; not on Shopify, use the web app.
FAQ
What size are Instagram ads? 4:5 or 1:1 feed (1080×1350 / 1080×1080), 9:16 story and reels (1080×1920).
Do I need different creative for reels vs feed? Yes — reels want native, motion-first vertical; feed wants a taller static or short clip.
How do I make Instagram ads without a designer? Generate the placement set with AI from your product; use a designer later for a proven hero.