When setting up your Facebook profile or Facebook Page, you have the option to upload a large header image. This image appears at the top of your profile and helps represent you or your brand visually. But there seems to be some confusion about what to call this large image. Should it be referred to as a Facebook cover, Facebook cover photo, Facebook banner, or Facebook header image? Let’s take a closer look at the terminology to determine the proper names for this image.
Facebook Cover vs. Facebook Banner
The terms “Facebook cover” and “Facebook banner” are often used interchangeably. Both refer to the large header image that appears at the top of a Facebook profile or Page. However, there are some slight differences:
- Facebook cover – Refers specifically to the header image on personal Facebook profiles.
- Facebook banner – More commonly used to describe the header image on Facebook Pages for businesses, brands, organizations, etc.
So in summary:
- For personal profiles – Facebook cover
- For Facebook Pages – Facebook banner
But in casual conversation, “Facebook cover” and “Facebook banner” are used interchangeably. Both terms refer to the large header image at the top of a Facebook profile or Page.
Facebook Cover Photo vs. Facebook Header Image
In addition to “cover” and “banner,” you may also hear the terms “Facebook cover photo” or “Facebook header image.” What’s the difference between these terms?
- Facebook cover photo – Refers specifically to the image itself that is uploaded and displayed.
- Facebook header image – Describes the entire header section at the top of the profile or Page, which includes the cover photo/banner and profile picture.
So in summary:
- “Cover photo” refers just to the image file that is uploaded.
- “Header image” refers to the entire top section, including the cover photo and profile picture.
Proper Terminology
Based on the definitions above, what are the proper terms to use?
- For personal profiles, the proper term is “Facebook cover photo.”
- For Facebook Pages, “Facebook banner” is most commonly used.
- “Facebook header image” refers to the entire top section of a profile or Page, encompassing both the cover photo/banner and profile picture.
However, as mentioned earlier, “Facebook cover” and “Facebook banner” are often used interchangeably in informal contexts. The most important thing is to avoid confusion by being consistent within any specific context.
Setting a Facebook Cover or Banner
Uploading a Facebook cover photo or banner is easy to do. Here are the steps:
- Go to your Facebook profile or Page.
- Click on the camera icon that says “Update Cover Photo” or “Update Banner Image.”
- Choose a photo from your computer to upload.
- Position the photo and click “Save Changes.”
Your new Facebook cover or banner photo will now be visible to anyone who views your profile or Page.
Cover and Banner Size and Specs
If you’re creating a custom Facebook cover or banner, it’s important to use the correct size and specifications:
| Image Type | Dimensions |
|---|---|
| Facebook Cover Photo (personal profiles) | 820 x 312 pixels |
| Facebook Banner Image (Pages) | 820 x 312 pixels |
Other recommendations:
- Use high resolution images of at least 72 dpi.
- JPG or PNG formats are recommended.
- Stick to standard RGB color mode.
- Text and logos should be clear and legible when viewed on screens of varying sizes.
Design Tips
Creating an engaging, effective Facebook cover or banner image requires some design expertise. Here are some tips:
Use High-Quality Photos
Pick photos that are crisp and visually appealing. Avoid blurry, pixelated images.
Incorporate Branding
For Facebook business Pages, include your logo, brand colors, or other branding elements.
Highlight Faces
Images with people tend to perform well. Show real connections to draw viewers in.
Use Text Sparingly
Text on busy cover photos can be hard to read. Use only minimal text.
Try Different Layouts
Experiment with images that overlay text or photos on solid backgrounds. Find what works for your aesthetic.
Check Mobile Display
Ensure your image looks good on mobile screens since that’s where most Facebook usage happens.
Tips for an Effective Facebook Cover or Banner
Here are some best practices for creating Facebook cover and banner images that engage your audience:
- Showcase your brand identity and style
- Highlight faces and emotions to connect with viewers
- Use high-quality, eye-catching photos
- Include minimal but readable text
- Feature your products or services in action
- Stick to a single, unified theme or concept
- Change it periodically to keep things fresh
- Drive traffic to your website with a relevant call-to-action
Fun Facebook Cover Examples
Need some inspiration for great Facebook covers and banners? Here are some fun examples:
Holiday Themed
Change your image to match featured holidays, seasons, or events.
Behind-the-Scenes
Give viewers a sneak peek at your company culture or everyday operations.
Event Promotions
Promote special sales, new product launches, or upcoming events.
Solid Color Backgrounds
Let bold graphics, logos, or text stand out against a solid color backdrop.
Customer Highlights
Show real customers interacting with your business.
Travel Destinations
For travel brands, showcase dream destinations.
Conclusion
While there are some subtle differences between terms like “Facebook cover,” “banner,” and “header image,” they essentially all refer to the large background photo at the top of a Facebook profile or Page. Follow the best practices outlined here to create covers and banners that engage your audience and complement your brand image on Facebook.