Introduction
Instagram carousel format is once again evolving, offering users more creative freedom with their content. Recently, Instagram announced that all users can now include up to 20 frames in a single carousel post, doubling the previous limit of 10. This update, which follows months of testing, allows creators and businesses to share even more photos and videos in a single post, making it easier to tell a comprehensive story or showcase a series of related images.
The Expansion of Instagram Carousels
For years, Instagram carousels have been a popular way to share multiple photos or videos in one post. Originally introduced in 2017 with a 10-frame limit, carousels quickly became a favourite feature among users, offering a dynamic way to engage followers with multiple pieces of content at once. Over time, Instagram has gradually increased the number of frames users can add, first expanding to 15 frames earlier this year, and now to 20 frames as of August 2024.
What the New 20-Frame Limit Means for Users
The ability to add up to 20 photos or videos in a single carousel post opens up new possibilities for content creators and brands alike. Whether you’re sharing a step-by-step tutorial, a travel photo album, or a detailed product showcase, the expanded frame limit allows for more comprehensive storytelling.
Additionally, Instagram has been experimenting with other carousel features, such as text overlays and variable image formats, which further enhance the creative potential of carousel posts. With 20 frames, users can create what is essentially a live photo album or a mini-video series, all within a single post.
How to Leverage the 20-Frame Carousel for Your Content Strategy
So, how can you make the most of Instagram’s expanded carousel feature? Here are a few ideas:
- Storytelling: Use the extra frames to craft a more detailed narrative. For example, share the full journey of a project, from concept to completion, or document an entire event or trip.
- Product Showcases: Showcase different angles, features, or uses of a product in one post. This is especially useful for e-commerce brands looking to highlight product details.
- Tutorials and How-Tos: Break down complex processes into easy-to-follow steps, using each frame to illustrate a different part of the tutorial.
- Engagement: Encourage followers to swipe through all 20 frames by creating a story or series that builds intrigue or offers value with each swipe.
By strategically using all 20 frames, you can increase engagement and provide a richer experience for your audience. Check out this video here as Katie Lance shares how to create this content.
How Instagram’s Carousel Update Compares to Competitors
It’s interesting to note that Instagram’s move to increase carousel frames is part of a broader trend in social media. TikTok, for instance, allows users to include up to 35 photos in a single post, showing that the demand for more comprehensive content-sharing options is growing. However, while TikTok is often associated with short-form videos, its photo slideshow feature has become increasingly popular.
Instagram’s 20-frame limit strikes a balance between offering more content space without overwhelming users, and it will be interesting to see how this impacts content strategies across the platform.
Conclusion: Maximize Your Content with Instagram’s 20-Frame Carousel
The expansion of Instagram carousel to 20 frames is a game-changer for content creators and businesses. This update provides more room to showcase your work, tell your story, or engage with your audience in a meaningful way. As Instagram continues to innovate and expand its features, staying ahead of these updates can help you maintain a competitive edge in your social media strategy.
At Amber 90, we specialize in crafting social media strategies that leverage the latest tools and features. Contact our team today to learn how we can help you make the most of Instagram’s new 20-frame carousel and other updates to enhance your brand’s presence.
