Instagram Media Upload Guide for SMACC Members (With Monetization Insights)
Instagram supports various media types, each with different engagement styles and monetization potential. Below is a breakdown of key media types, best formats, recommended resolutions, and monetization strategies.
Types of Media You Can Upload on Instagram
| Media Type | Description | Best Formats | Recommended Resolutions | Best Uses | Monetization Potential |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Feed Posts (Photo/Video) | Standard posts in the Instagram feed. | JPEG, PNG (Images) / MP4 (Videos) | 1080×1080 (1:1) / 1080×1350 (4:5) | Evergreen content, promotions, storytelling. | Moderate: Brand sponsorships, product tags, affiliate marketing. |
| Instagram Reels | Short-form vertical videos (up to 90 sec). | MP4 (H.264) | 1080×1920 (9:16) | Viral content, trends, educational clips. | High: Reels Play Bonus (invite-only), brand deals, affiliate links. |
| Instagram Stories | Temporary content that disappears after 24h (unless saved as Highlights). | MP4 (H.264) / JPEG, PNG (Images) | 1080×1920 (9:16) | Behind-the-scenes, daily updates, interactive polls. | Moderate: Link stickers (affiliate sales), sponsored stories, subscriptions. |
| Instagram Live | Real-time interactive live streaming. | MP4 (Live Stream) | 1080×1920 (9:16) | Q&A sessions, product launches, live events. | Very High: Badges (tips from viewers), live shopping, sponsorships. |
| Carousel Posts | Multi-image/video posts swiped horizontally. | JPEG, PNG, MP4 (H.264) | 1080×1080 (1:1) / 1080×1350 (4:5) | Step-by-step guides, product showcases. | Moderate: High engagement for brands, affiliate marketing. |
| Instagram Shopping | Posts with direct links to buy products. | JPEG, PNG / MP4 (H.264) | 1080×1080 (1:1) / 1080×1350 (4:5) | E-commerce, product-based content. | Very High: Direct product sales, affiliate commissions. |
| Instagram Highlights | Saved Stories that remain on your profile. | MP4 (H.264) / JPEG, PNG | 1080×1920 (9:16) | Branding, FAQs, promotions. | Indirect: Builds long-term brand trust. |
| Instagram Notes | Short text updates (up to 60 characters) in DMs. | Text-based | N/A | Quick updates, engagement. | Low: Limited monetization use. |
Best Media Settings for Instagram
| Setting | Recommended Value |
|---|---|
| Image Format | JPEG, PNG |
| Video Format | MP4 (H.264) |
| Audio Codec | AAC-LC |
| Frame Rate | 30 FPS |
| Aspect Ratios | 1:1 (Square), 4:5 (Portrait), 9:16 (Vertical) |
| File Size Limit | 4GB (Videos), 8MB (Images) |
Monetization Breakdown for SMACC Members
1. Instagram Reels Play Bonus (Invite-Only Payouts)
• Instagram pays creators based on Reels views & engagement.
• Only available in select regions (US, UK, India, etc.).
2. Instagram Subscriptions (Exclusive Content for Paying Followers)
• Creators can charge monthly fees for exclusive Stories, Lives & posts.
• Best for coaches, educators, and influencers with loyal audiences.
3. Instagram Badges (Live Streaming Tips)
• Fans buy Badges ($0.99–$4.99) during Live videos to support creators.
• Available for eligible Instagram Live creators.
4. Instagram Shopping (Direct Product Sales)
• Tag products in posts, Reels, Stories, and Lives.
• Best for fashion, beauty, fitness, and e-commerce brands.
5. Affiliate Marketing (Earn Commissions on Sales)
• Use affiliate links in Stories & posts to earn a % from sales.
• Great for reviewers, tech influencers, and lifestyle bloggers.
6. Brand Sponsorships & Collabs (Most Profitable Strategy)
• Brands pay influencers for sponsored content in Reels, Stories, or Feed posts.
• High earnings for creators with engaged audiences.
Key Takeaways for SMACC Members
✅ Reels & Live videos offer the highest monetization potential.
✅ Feed posts & carousels work well for brand partnerships & affiliate sales.
✅ Stories with link stickers drive direct sales & audience interaction.
✅ Live streaming is the fastest way to earn directly from fans.
✅ Instagram Shopping is great for selling products directly on the platform.
This guide ensures SMACC members optimize their Instagram content strategy for maximum reach and revenue. 🚀
