I and so many others have cultivated our Instagram accounts into carefully arranged scrapbooks. For years, I intentionally posted my memories and artwork to create a composition within my feed that is pleasant to the eye and the mind. The move from a square grid to a rectangular one has jarringly upended my visual memory lane. It breaks my heart that I can no longer look at my memories the same way. 

Instagram's change may seem minor, but for so many people with a keen eye for composition, it really matters. Aesthetic consistency is not a frivolous consideration; it is the essence of visual storytelling.

I fear Instagram's rush to gain more users has forsaken its loyal clientele. Instagram's core values were once focused on empowering creativity, but now they seem to prioritize appealing to a wider, potentially less invested user demographic. It's important to remember that Instagram boasts over 1 billion monthly active users (source: Statista). Many of us have dedicated years to cultivating our feeds and our communities; this change feels like a disrespect to our efforts and a disservice to all new members as they are losing the opportunity to stretch their creative muscles in a meaningful way. 

We cannot let this issue go unnoticed. For the sake of preserving creative expression and respecting its user base, Instagram must revert to its square grid format. Please support this plea for a return to instilled respect for composition, personal expression, and visual consistency. Sign the petition and let Instagram know we are not just numbers — we are artists, memories, moments, and stories. Rectangles are ugly!! Squares are cute!!!