Tips for Choosing the Best Facebook Timeline Cover Photo
By now, everyone who uses Facebook is on the timeline format. One of the main changes in the timeline format is the inclusion of the cover photo. A cover photo is the rectangular banner-like image that is at the top of your page. The photo is the first thing people see when they get to your page so you need to take some time to make sure it looks good. There is no need to panic about what to put on the area – it will remain blank (actually gray) until you place a photo in position.
Timeline Photos Are Public
It’s worth mentioning that your timeline cover photo, along with your personal icon image, are visible to everyone on Facebook. There is no way to make it private, so you just need to be aware of this when deciding what to place there. Keep in mind that both your timeline cover photo and your profile icon will be on the page, so you can’t simply use the same photo. In fact, it’s best if you choose photos that are compatible with each other.
Choose What You Love
Picking a cover photo doesn’t need to be stressful. Think about what you love and choose a picture based on that. Did you take a wonderful vacation last summer? Use that as your cover photo. Are you crazy for your pet dog or cat? Choose a cute photo of them to use. Are you a nature lover? If so, pick a photo of the great outdoors. Whatever you like, you can show it on the top of your Facebook page. You can use a photo that you already have, but you’ll need to make sure it’s sized correctly before you post it.
Sizing the Cover Photo
The cover photo is quite large; it extends across most of the width of your page. If you’re able to use Photoshop, or a similar program, you can properly size your image. The size of the cover photo is 851 x 315 pixels. You should choose the 72 dpi setting. If you don’t resize the photo, it will be stretched to fit into the space. This will result in some distortion. Those who aren’t technically inclined may prefer to choose photos that are already created just for use on timeline covers.
Getting Photos to Use
You can use your own photos for your cover image; however, there are other, easier options. One such option is to choose from thousands of premium Facebook timeline cover photos online. You’ll find a wide range of choices in numerous categories. If you prefer, you can start with your own photo and use an online program to make changes to it. This will make it unique and at the same time crop it to the perfect size for using on your Facebook page. If you see a photo that you like on someone else’s page, you can’t just take it without permission, so be careful.
Choose Wisely
When you’re choosing a photo as your cover image, be sure to choose wisely. Look for a unique and interesting image that will brighten up your page. People create a first impression within the first seven seconds. Online, this means that a person visiting your page will determine whether they like you (or your business) immediately when they click on your page. You only have one chance to make a first impression, so it’s essential that you use your cover photo to make your page look as inviting as possible. Change your photo often so that you can continue to bring attention to your page.
AIVAnet 