Double the Fun: Instagram’s 20-Post Carousel Takes Photo Dumps to the Next Level!

Instagram keeps evolving and has continuously adapted its features to meet the changing needs of its diverse user base. From introducing Stories to Reels, and from IGTV to Shopping, the platform has become a multifaceted tool for both personal expression and business growth. A key part of Instagram’s evolution has been to expand its features, helping users to create richer, more engaging content.

One of such features that has become integral to the Instagram experience is the carousel post. First introduced in 2017, carousel posts allowed users to share up to 10 photos or videos in a single post, what is now commonly referred to as a “Photo dump” feature.

This August, Instagram once again expanded its carousel feature, allowing up to 20 posts in a single carousel. This update marks a significant shift in how users and brands can leverage the platform for storytelling and engagement.

About the Carousel Feature

Carousel posts have been a game-changer for Instagram, offering users the ability to combine multiple images or videos into one cohesive post. This feature is particularly popular among brands, influencers, and content creators, who use it to showcase product collections, tutorials, before-and-after transformations, and much more.

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The ability to swipe through a series of images or videos provides a more interactive experience for viewers and allows for more detailed content without overwhelming the audience in a single post.

In response to growing demand for more flexible content-sharing options, Instagram introduced a significant update to its carousel feature in 2024, doubling the previous limit and allowing users to include up to 20 posts in a single carousel. This update has opened up new possibilities for content creators, brands, and everyday users, enabling them to craft more comprehensive and engaging narratives.

Why is this a good thing?

Enhanced Storytelling

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With the ability to include up to 20 posts, users can now tell more detailed stories. Whether it’s a brand showcasing an entire product line, an influencer sharing an in-depth tutorial, or a user chronicling a long trip, the extended carousel allows for greater creativity and depth.

Improved Engagement

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Carousel posts have already been shown to generate higher engagement rates compared to single-image posts, because they encourage users to swipe through multiple pieces of content. So, with an increased number of posts within a carousel, as users will spend more time interacting with the posts.

Streamlined Content

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For brands and creators who previously had to split the same content across multiple posts, this new limit provides a more streamlined approach. Now, all related content can be included in a single carousel, making it easier for followers to follow the story.

Flexibility

The expanded carousel is particularly beneficial for marketers. It allows them to present multiple products, services, or features in one post, creating a more compelling and cohesive message. For instance, a fashion brand could showcase an entire seasonal collection in a single post, while a restaurant could highlight their multiple menu specials.

What Challenge does this present?

While the new 20-post limit offers numerous advantages, it also comes with certain challenges. Content creators and brands must now be even more mindful of how they structure their carousel posts. With more content to include, it’s crucial to maintain a clear narrative flow and ensure that each post adds value to the overall message. Overloading a carousel with too much content can overwhelm viewers, potentially leading to disengagement and disinterest.

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Instagram’s decision to expand the carousel post limit to 20 images or videos is a testament to the platform’s ongoing commitment to user satisfaction. This update not only enhances the storytelling capabilities of content creators and brands but also provides new opportunities for engagement and interaction.

For creators, the key to success with this new feature lies in thoughtful content planning, high-quality visuals, and a deep understanding of audience engagement. As Instagram continues to evolve, it’s clear that features like the extended carousel will play a crucial role in shaping the future of social media content.