One of Instagram’s defining factors is the fact that users can’t really zoom in on pictures (an exception is pinch-to-zoom) or even see them in a larger format for that matter. While this could actually be a good thing from a security perspective, sometimes it’s just annoying.

However, just like all things tech, there’s a workaround to resolve it and in this article, we’re going to discuss a few ways you can use to see Instagram photos in all their glory.

Also read: How to edit a post on Instagram?

How to see Instagram photos in full size?

As you know, Instagram crops the photos only shows a reduced size in the timeline. However, there’s a way around it that lets you see the full-resolution version.

Step 1: Log into Instagram using a web browser and go to the post you want to see.

Step 2: Notice the link in the address bar? We’re going to add media/?size=l at the end of the image URL and then press Enter. This will redirect you to the full-res image. 

For instance, if the original  URL was – https://www.instagram.com/p/B5iPPKvlzCR/

The new URL would be – https://www.instagram.com/p/B5iPPKvlzCR/media/?size=l

Alternatively, you can also see the medium or thumbnail size image by changing size=l in the full-size image URL mentioned above to size=m or even size=t to see the medium and thumbnail sizes respectively. 

Now if you’re on a smartphone, you could simply do this process in a browser as well.

Apps to view full size images in Instagram

However, if you’re keener on using an app, there are quite a few available on the Google Play Store such as Zoomy for Instagram, Fast Instant DP and another very conveniently named Download Profile Picture for Instagram. 

If you’re on the iOS side of things, you have apps such as Qeek, or PicHunter to help view Instagram images in full size.

Also read: How to insert a clickable link in your Instagram bio?

How to see Instagram profile pictures in full-size?

The aforementioned method only lets you see the photos posted as posts. If you’re looking for hi-res profile pictures from Instagram, it’s best to use a third-party tool.

All you need is the username of the profile you want the picture of and we’re good to go. 

Step 1: Head over to ThumbTube.com and type in the username of the profile you’re looking for in the search bar.

Step 2: Hit the Submit button and wait for a minute. The website will fetch the profile picture of the said profile in full size. 

Also read: Top 7 Instagram follower unfollow tracker apps for iOS