Jeff BullasDesigning a custom cover image for your Instagram Reels is a crucial step for creating a professional, cohesive, and aesthetically pleasing profile grid. It also provides important context for your video before a user even decides to play it.
There are several key best practices to follow. First, and most importantly, you must design for the square grid view. Remember that your Reel cover will be cropped to a square (1:1 aspect ratio) when it appears on your main profile grid. Therefore, all of your most critical elements, such as your main text headline and key visuals, must be placed within the centre square of your design so they are not cut off when people visit your profile.
Second, the full dimensions of the cover image itself should match your Reel, which is a vertical 9:16 aspect ratio (1080 by 1920 pixels). While only the centre square is visible on your grid, the full vertical image is what may be shown as the thumbnail in the Reels feed. You should design the full vertical image, but always ensure the essential information is safe within that central square.
Third, you should include a bold, clear, and readable headline on the cover. The text should clearly explain what the Reel is about or what value it offers the viewer. Using a consistent and easy-to-read font that aligns with your brand is essential.
Fourth, you need to maintain a consistent brand aesthetic across all your Reel covers. This creates a professional and organised look on your profile grid. You can achieve this through the consistent use of your brand’s colour palette, fonts, a specific photo editing style, or a recurring layout template.
Fifth, you must use a high-quality image. Whether you select a high-resolution still frame from your video or create a completely custom graphic, it must be sharp and clear. A blurry or pixelated cover image will immediately look unprofessional.
And sixth, avoid making your design too cluttered. A simple design with a clear focal point and a concise, easy-to-read headline is much more effective than a busy cover that has too much text or too many competing visual elements.
You can select or upload your custom cover image from your camera roll on the final screen just before you share your Reel. By focusing on the square grid crop and maintaining a consistent brand style, you can make your Reels a much more professional and appealing part of your overall Instagram presence.