Adding a cover image to your LinkedIn videos can be a great way to make them stand out in the feed and attract more viewers. Much like a book cover or album art, the cover image acts as visual marketing to capture attention. In this guide, we’ll walk through the simple process of adding and customizing cover images for your LinkedIn videos.
Why Add a Cover Image?
Here are some of the key reasons you may want to add a cover image to your LinkedIn videos:
- Make your videos stand out – The cover acts like a thumbnail, catching the eye in the feed.
- Convey key information – The image can communicate details about the content before viewers hit play.
- Brand your content – Use your logo, brand colors, or other assets to identify your videos.
- Increase clicks – An eye-catching cover can boost curiosity and views of your video.
In short, cover images allow you to package your video content for maximum impact. The extra customization can help your videos appeal to the right audiences.
Cover Image Requirements
If you want to add a cover image to your LinkedIn video, there are a few requirements to keep in mind:
- File format: PNG or JPG
- Aspect ratio: 16:9
- File size: 4MB or smaller
- Minimum dimensions: 1280 x 720 pixels
Matching the 16:9 widescreen aspect ratio is important so the image displays properly regardless of device. Aim for high-resolution images of at least 1280 x 720 pixels for optimal quality.
You’ll also want to choose eye-catching, high-quality images that look professional. Simple backgrounds tend to work best so text and logos pop. Make sure you have the rights to use any images in your cover.
How to Add a Cover When Uploading
The easiest way to add a cover image to a LinkedIn video is during the initial upload process. Here are the steps:
- Go to the LinkedIn website and click on the “Post” icon in the share box.
- Select “Video” from the options.
- Choose your video file to upload from your computer.
- Once your video is uploaded, click “Next”.
- On the next screen you’ll see a box that says “Add a cover image”.
- Click the “Upload” button in this box and select your cover image file.
- Drag the corners to crop the image as needed.
- Click “Apply” once you have your ideal cover image crop.
- Add any text, hashtags, tagging, etc. and post your video.
The cover image will now be attached to your video, appearing as a thumbnail wherever it’s displayed on LinkedIn.
Editing the Cover Later
What if you need to change the cover photo after your video is already published? LinkedIn allows you to edit the cover image on existing videos through the desktop site.
Here are the steps:
- Go to the LinkedIn video post you want to edit.
- Click the three dots “…” icon in the upper right corner of the post.
- Select “Edit post” from the dropdown menu.
- This will open an editing window – scroll down and you’ll see the box to edit the cover image.
- Delete the current cover and upload a new image as needed.
- Adjust cropping and click “Apply” to save changes.
The updated cover will now display on your existing video post. You can repeat this process anytime you need to modify the cover image.
Adding Covers Through Third-Party Apps
Another option for adding covers to LinkedIn videos is to upload and edit them through third-party apps and software. For example:
- Design programs like Canva or Adobe Creative Cloud to create cover graphics.
- Video editing software like Final Cut Pro or Premiere Pro to overlay covers.
- Social media tools like Hootsuite or Sprout Social to schedule videos.
The advantage of using third-party tools is it allows for advanced design and editing capabilities. You can perfect your cover image before uploading the finished video to LinkedIn.
The only catch is that any app or program needs to export your video in a supported file format like MP4. And you still need to adhere to the recommended cover image specs of 16:9 ratio and minimum 1280 x 720 px resolution.
Cover Image Ideas and Best Practices
Now that you know how to add cover images to LinkedIn videos, here are some tips for creating effective covers that maximize views and engagement:
Use high-quality eye-catching images
Visually striking photographs, graphics, or illustrations work best to capture attention. Avoid busy or complex images.
Incorporate branding elements
Integrate logos, colors, or other brand assets to identify who published the video.
Highlight key information
Include relevant text, stats, or graphics that communicate what the video is about.
Focus on one clear subject
Covers with a distinct focal point work better than vague or ambiguous images.
Use solid color backgrounds
Plain backgrounds help the main cover elements pop. Subtle color gradients can also work.
Add visual intrigue
Try contrasts, negative space, or unusual crops to pique viewer curiosity.
Ideal Cover Dimensions
To recap, here are the ideal cover image dimensions for LinkedIn videos:
Aspect Ratio | 16:9 |
Minimum Size | 1280 x 720 pixels |
Maximum File Size | 4MB |
File Format | PNG or JPG |
Shooting for these specs will ensure your cover images display properly across all devices and screen sizes.
Troubleshooting Cover Images
If your cover image isn’t appearing correctly on your LinkedIn video, here are some common issues and fixes:
Wrong dimensions
Double check that the cover is 1280 x 720 pixels or larger and in a 16:9 ratio. Rectangular images may get distorted.
Small file size
Very small image files can get blurry when enlarged. Use higher resolution source images if needed.
Unsupported file type
LinkedIn only supports PNG and JPG cover images. Convert files like GIFs or BMPs before uploading.
Excess image text or details
Too much text or intricate details get lost at smaller sizes. Use simpler images.
Deleted during edits
Covers can accidentally get removed when editing other video post details. Double check it’s still there.
Conclusion
Adding customizable cover images is a great way to level up your LinkedIn video posts. To recap, you can easily add covers during the initial upload or retroactively edit them later through LinkedIn’s post editor.
For optimal quality and visibility, follow LinkedIn’s recommended specifications – 16:9 ratio, 1280 x 720 minimum size, PNG or JPG format. Use eye-catching and purposeful designs that complement your video content.
With the right cover image, you can make your LinkedIn videos stand out, express your brand, and entice more people to watch your business content. So take advantage of this feature to maximize your video’s impact!