Keeping up with social media image sizes can feel like chasing a moving target. One moment, your profile photo fits perfectly; the next, it’s awkwardly cropped or stretched, leaving your content looking unprofessional.
And with platforms constantly updating their specifications, finding the exact image dimensions can feel like searching for buried treasure.
No need to stress—this guide has you covered! Below, you’ll find the most up-to-date social media image sizes as of January 2025, so your visuals stay polished, professional, and ready for action.
Why Image Sizes Matter
Incorrect social media image sizes can appear blurry, stretched, or awkwardly cropped, which can harm your brand’s credibility. Using the right dimensions ensures:
- Better Visual Appeal: Crisp and clear images grab attention.
- Improved Engagement: Well-sized visuals are more likely to generate likes, shares, and comments.
- Professionalism: Correct dimensions reflect attention to detail and professionalism.
- Optimized Reach: Platforms prioritize optimized content in their algorithms.
Let’s dive into the latest recommended dimensions for each network.
1. Facebook Image Sizes
- Facebook remains one of the most widely used platforms, making it essential to ensure your visuals look great. Here are the current image size recommendations:
Profile Picture
- Recommended Size: 320 x 320 pixels
- Minimum Size: 180 x 180 pixels
- Aspect Ratio: 1:1 (square)
Cover Photo
- Recommended Size: 1200 x 675 pixels
- Minimum Size: 820 x 312 pixels
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Tips: Ensure critical text or logos are centered to avoid cropping on smaller screens.
Shared Image
- Recommended Size: 1200 x 630 pixels
- Aspect Ratio: 1.91:1
- Tips: Ideal for link previews and single-image posts.
Event Cover Photo
- Recommended Size: 1200 x 628 pixels
- Aspect Ratio: 2:1
2. Instagram Image Sizes
Instagram is a visual-first platform, so image quality is crucial. Here are the updated sizes:
Profile Picture
- Recommended Size: 320 x 320 pixels
- Aspect Ratio: 1:1 (displayed as a circle)
Feed Posts
- Square Images: 1080 x 1080 pixels (1:1 aspect ratio)
- Portrait Images: 1080 x 1350 pixels (4:5 aspect ratio)
- Landscape Images: 1080 x 566 pixels (1.91:1 aspect ratio)
Stories
- Recommended Size: 1080 x 1920 pixels
- Aspect Ratio: 9:16
- Tips: Leave 250 pixels at the top and bottom for text and UI elements.
Reels
- Recommended Size: 1080 x 1920 pixels
- Aspect Ratio: 9:16
- Tips: Ensure the focal point is centered to avoid cropping in the preview grid.
Highlights Cover
- Recommended Size: 200 x 200 pixels
- Aspect Ratio: 1:1
3. Twitter (X) Image Sizes
Twitter, now known as X, has shifted toward more multimedia content. Here’s how to optimize your visuals:
Profile Picture
- Recommended Size: 400 x 400 pixels
- Aspect Ratio: 1:1
Header Photo
- Recommended Size: 1500 x 500 pixels
- Aspect Ratio: 3:1
- Tips: Use high-resolution images to avoid pixelation.
In-Stream Image
- Recommended Size: 1200 x 675 pixels
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Tips: Images will display as a preview and expand upon clicking.
4. LinkedIn Image Sizes
LinkedIn focuses on professional connections, making image clarity essential. Use these sizes:
Profile Picture
- Recommended Size: 400 x 400 pixels
- Aspect Ratio: 1:1
Background Photo
- Recommended Size: 1584 x 396 pixels
- Aspect Ratio: 4:1
- Tips: Ensure text and important elements are visible on both desktop and mobile.
Shared Image
- Recommended Size: 1200 x 627 pixels
- Aspect Ratio: 1.91:1
Company Logo
- Recommended Size: 300 x 300 pixels
- Aspect Ratio: 1:1
5. Pinterest Image Sizes
Pinterest’s vertical layout is perfect for infographics and tall visuals. Use these dimensions:
Profile Picture
- Recommended Size: 165 x 165 pixels
- Aspect Ratio: 1:1
Pin Image
- Recommended Size: 1000 x 1500 pixels
- Aspect Ratio: 2:3
- Tips: Avoid making pins too tall, as they may get cut off.
Board Cover
- Recommended Size: 222 x 150 pixels
- Aspect Ratio: 1.48:1
6. TikTok Image Sizes
TikTok’s vertical video format dominates, but images like profile pictures and thumbnails are still crucial:
Profile Picture
- Recommended Size: 200 x 200 pixels
- Aspect Ratio: 1:1
Video Thumbnail
- Recommended Size: 1080 x 1920 pixels
- Aspect Ratio: 9:16
- Tips: Keep the thumbnail clear and visually engaging.
7. YouTube Image Sizes
YouTube is all about video, but well-designed visuals enhance your channel’s branding:
Profile Picture
- Recommended Size: 800 x 800 pixels
- Aspect Ratio: 1:1 (displayed as a circle)
Channel Cover Photo
- Recommended Size: 2560 x 1440 pixels
- Safe Area: 1546 x 423 pixels (visible on all devices)
- Tips: Place important text and logos within the safe area.
Video Thumbnail
- Recommended Size: 1280 x 720 pixels
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Tips: Use eye-catching colors and readable text.
8. Snapchat Image Sizes
Snapchat’s ephemeral content thrives on engaging visuals. Here are the dimensions:
Profile Picture (Snapcode)
- Recommended Size: 320 x 320 pixels
- Aspect Ratio: 1:1
Snap Ads
- Recommended Size: 1080 x 1920 pixels
- Aspect Ratio: 9:16
Essential Tips for Optimizing Social Media Images
Learn how to make your social media images stand out with these essential optimization tips.
- Prioritize High-Resolution Images: Always upload clear, high-quality visuals to avoid pixelation. Crisp, detailed images help maintain a professional image for your brand.
- Test Across Devices: Ensure your images look polished on both desktop and mobile screens. This ensures your content delivers a consistent experience for all users.
- Stay Informed: Social media platforms frequently update their image requirements. Staying current with these changes ensures your content remains optimized for each platform.
- Optimize for Speed: Compress images to improve load times without sacrificing visual quality. Fast loading speeds are crucial for maintaining user engagement and satisfaction.
- Maintain Consistent Branding: Use a cohesive color palette, fonts, and design elements across all social media channels. This consistency strengthens brand recognition and fosters a unified presence.
Why is getting social media image sizes right crucial?
For social media marketers, creating the perfect visual content goes beyond just choosing the right images.
You must ensure the images are copyright-compliant. If original photos aren’t available, sourcing high-quality stock images is a must. And then there are the tools that can enhance the look of your visuals.
But one of the most important aspects is getting the correct image sizes. Here’s why:
- Avoid pixelation and stretching: Using the wrong size leads to poor quality, but proper sizing ensures your images look sharp and professional.
- Optimize for each platform: Each social network has its own image specifications, and getting these right boosts engagement by ensuring your content fits perfectly in feeds.
- Showcase the full image: Incorrect dimensions can crop out vital parts of your brand’s message, so getting the size right guarantees your audience sees everything you want to convey.
Future-proof your content: Staying updated with current image sizes ensures you’re prepared for any future changes in platform display requirements, saving time and keeping your visuals flawless.
Ready to make your social media images stand out? Let DigiXL Media elevate your visuals with expert optimization and creative strategies tailored to your brand.
For more tips, updates, and inspiration, connect with us on LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter), and Facebook. Stay inspired, stay informed, and let’s create something extraordinary together.
