When it comes to Facebook cover photos, there are specific size requirements that you need to follow if you want your photo to look its best. For optimal quality, Facebook suggests that cover photos be 820 pixels wide x 312 pixels tall. This size ensures that your cover photo will look good across desktop, mobile, and various device displays.
While Facebook outlines these exact dimensions, your photo does not necessarily have to match them precisely. Facebook does allow for some flexibility in the size of your cover photo. However, keeping your image around 820 x 312 pixels will help prevent distortion or unwanted cropping that can occur if your photo deviates too far from the recommended size.
The Standard Size
The standard size for a Facebook cover photo is:
- Width: 820 pixels
- Height: 312 pixels
So if you want your cover photo to appear exactly as intended with no cropping, then aim for a photo that is 820 pixels wide by 312 pixels tall. This size will ensure that your entire cover photo is visible on computers, mobile devices, and various screen sizes.
Allowed Dimension Range
While 820 x 312 pixels is the optimum size for cover photos, Facebook does provide a range of allowed dimensions:
- Minimum width: 640 pixels
- Maximum width: 820 pixels
- Minimum height: 200 pixels
- Maximum height: 312 pixels
So your cover photo can be as small as 640 x 200 pixels or as large as 820 x 312 pixels. However, staying close to the standard 820 x 312 size is best to prevent unwanted distortion, pixilation, or cropping.
Cover Photo Size on Mobile
On mobile devices, your cover photo will be cropped into a smaller horizontal space. The visible portion will be:
- Width: 640 pixels
- Height: 360 pixels
So when designing your cover image, be sure to choose a focal point and place important elements within the 640 x 360 pixel space. This will ensure key details, text, or subjects are visible on mobile platforms without being cut off.
Tips for Different Aspect Ratios
If your photo has a different aspect ratio than the 820 x 312 pixel standard size, here are some tips:
Landscape Orientation
- For wider landscape photos, set the width to 820 pixels and adjust the height as needed to retain the original aspect ratio.
- Some taller height cropping may occur, so place focal elements high in the image.
Portrait Orientation
- For taller portrait photos, set the height to 312 pixels and adjust the width as needed to maintain the original aspect ratio.
- Some width cropping may occur, so place important details near the center of the image.
Square Orientation
- Square photos will have empty space on the sides or top/bottom edges.
- Place your main focal point in the center so the empty space falls around the edges rather than cutting your subject off.
Cover Photo Templates
If you want a quick and easy solution, Facebook provides cover photo templates featuring common dimensions and layouts:
Free Facebook Cover Photo Templates
- Horizontal template at 820 x 312 pixels
- Vertical template at 820 x 1062 pixels
- Square template at 820 x 820 pixels
These templates have guides to help you add visual elements in the optimal positions for different orientations. They take the guesswork out of resizing and designing your cover photo.
Conclusion
When choosing a Facebook cover photo, it’s best to use an image sized around 820 x 312 pixels for optimal quality and visibility. This standard size prevents unwanted distortion or cropping. Keep important elements like text and focal points within a 640 x 360 space to ensure they are visible on mobile. For photos in different orientations, adjust either the width or height to 820/312 pixels respectively. And use the free Facebook cover templates if you need proper dimensions and layouts. With these tips, your cover photo will look fantastic!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the pixel dimensions for a Facebook cover photo?
The recommended pixel dimensions for a Facebook cover photo are 820 pixels wide by 312 pixels tall. This size will ensure your cover photo appears properly across different devices and screen sizes.
What is the minimum size for a Facebook cover photo?
The minimum size for a Facebook cover photo is 640 pixels wide by 200 pixels tall. However going smaller than the recommended 820 x 312 size may lead to unwanted cropping or distortion of your photo.
What size should I make my cover photo to avoid cropping?
To avoid cropping, you will want your Facebook cover photo to be around 820 pixels wide by 312 pixels tall. This standard size will prevent any cropping or distortion when displayed on computers and mobile devices.
What is the mobile size for Facebook cover photos?
On mobile devices, your Facebook cover photo will be cropped to 640 pixels wide by 360 pixels tall. So focus your main visual elements within this 640 x 360 space when designing your cover image.
How do I resize my cover photo to the right dimensions?
Most photo editing apps like Photoshop or Snapseed allow you to manually resize your image to specific pixel dimensions. Simply adjust the image width and height to 820 x 312 pixels before uploading as your Facebook cover photo.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips for creating the perfect Facebook cover photo:
- Use high resolution images for crystal clear quality. Images should be at least 1080 pixels on the shortest edge.
- Choose eye-catching colors that represent your brand or style.
- Include relevant text, logos, or graphics that communicate your brand.
- Optimize images for high quality results by saving them as JPGs at 80% quality or higher.
- Use Canva, PicMonkey, or other online editing tools to design polished, professional graphics.
- Check your cover photo on desktop and mobile to make sure graphics resize properly before publishing.
- Change up your cover photo periodically to keep your profile looking fresh and updated.
Taking the time to create a high quality, well-designed cover photo can really make your Facebook profile stand out and leave a positive impression.
More Resources
Here are some additional resources to help you create the perfect Facebook cover photo:
- Facebook’s Cover Photo Size Guide
- Free Facebook Cover Makers from Canva
- Hootsuite’s Guide to Facebook Cover Photo Sizes
- Sprout Social’s Facebook Cover Photo Dimensions Guide
These resources offer tips, templates, and tools to help you create cover photos that pop. With an optimized Facebook cover photo, you can make a great first impression and visually represent your brand on your profile.
Summary
To summarize, the ideal size for a Facebook cover photo is 820 pixels wide by 312 pixels tall. This size prevents cropping or distortion issues. Keep the key details within a 640 x 360 space for visibility on mobile. Adjust the width or height to 820/312 pixels if your image has a different aspect ratio. Take advantage of cover photo templates, editing tools, and design tips. With a customized cover photo at the proper dimensions, you can showcase your unique style on your Facebook profile.