Add Instagram Blocks to Squarespace for Dynamic Content

Adding Instagram Blocks to Your Squarespace Site

TL;DR:

• Instagram blocks display your latest Instagram posts directly on your website
• You'll need a professional Instagram account due to recent API changes
• Four layout options available: slideshow, carousel, grid, and stacked
• If blocks aren't updating, reconnect your Instagram account
• Use embed blocks for individual posts if you prefer to keep a personal account

Instagram blocks let you showcase your Instagram content directly on your Squarespace site. The posts sync automatically, so your website stays current with your latest Instagram activity.

Setting Up Instagram Blocks

Adding an Instagram block is straightforward:

1. Add the block: Click an insert point or 'Add Block', then select Instagram from the menu
2. Open the editor: Click the pencil icon to customize your block
3. Connect Instagram: Choose a previously connected account or add a new one through the authorization process
4. Set display number: You can show up to 20 posts at once
5. Pick your design: Choose from four layout options and adjust display settings
6. Save your changes: Click 'Save' when you're happy with how it looks

Design Options

You get four main layout choices:

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Slideshow: Shows one post at a time with navigation arrows
Carousel: Displays posts in full width with partial views of adjacent posts
Grid: Arranges posts as thumbnails in a grid pattern
Stacked: Shows posts at full width, one below the other

Each design comes with extra settings. You can adjust aspect ratios, toggle caption display, and choose whether links open in new windows.

Fixing Connection Issues

Instagram updated their API recently, which broke many existing connections. If your blocks aren't showing recent posts, you'll need to reconnect:

1. Access Connected Accounts: Go to Settings > Connected Accounts
2. Click 'Reauthenticate' next to Instagram
3. Switch to Professional: If prompted, convert your personal account to a professional one
4. Reset if needed: Click the Instagram icon, then 'Reset Data' if posts still aren't updating

This is the bit most people miss. Instagram now requires professional accounts for third-party integrations. Personal accounts won't work with Instagram blocks anymore.

Alternative: Embed Blocks

If you don't want to switch to a professional Instagram account, you can still display individual posts using embed blocks:

1. Copy the embed code from any Instagram post
2. Add an embed block to your page
3. Paste the code and save

This won't auto-update like Instagram blocks, but it works with personal accounts and gives you precise control over which posts appear.

FAQs

Can I use Instagram blocks with a personal account?
No, Instagram now requires professional accounts for third-party integrations. You'll need to convert your account or use embed blocks instead.

Why aren't my Instagram posts updating?
Usually this means you need to reconnect your Instagram account. The API changes in 2023 broke most existing connections.

Can I show posts from multiple Instagram accounts?
Yes, each Instagram block can connect to a different account. Just set up separate blocks for each account you want to display.

How often do Instagram blocks update?
Posts typically update within a few hours, but it can take up to 24 hours during high-traffic periods.

Jargon Buster

API: Application Programming Interface. The system that lets Instagram and Squarespace talk to each other.

Professional Instagram Account: A business or creator account that provides analytics and integration features. Free to set up.

Connected Accounts: The Squarespace settings area where you manage links to your social media accounts.

Embed Block: A Squarespace block that displays content from external services using embed codes.

Wrap-up

Instagram blocks work well for keeping your website content fresh and engaging. The main hurdle is the professional account requirement, but that's a simple switch in your Instagram settings.

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If your blocks aren't working, reconnecting your account usually fixes the problem. For more control over specific posts, embed blocks are worth considering as an alternative.

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