Common starting dimensions
These are widely used export recommendations, not guarantees that every platform view will display the whole image. Always confirm current specifications for important campaigns.
| Platform / placement | Common canvas | Ratio |
|---|---|---|
| Instagram square feed | 1080 × 1080 px | 1:1 |
| Instagram portrait feed | 1080 × 1350 px | 4:5 |
| Stories and Reels | 1080 × 1920 px | 9:16 |
| YouTube thumbnail | 1280 × 720 px | 16:9 |
| YouTube channel banner | 2560 × 1440 px | 16:9 |
| Facebook / link preview | 1200 × 630 px | 1.91:1 |
| LinkedIn profile banner | 1584 × 396 px | 4:1 |
| X header | 1500 × 500 px | 3:1 |
| Pinterest standard Pin | 1000 × 1500 px | 2:3 |
Start with the placement, not the platform
A platform may use different shapes for feed images, profile photos, banners, stories, thumbnails and link previews. Pick the placement first, then choose its dimensions. Our social media image size finder lets you browse these presets quickly.
Keep important content inside safe areas
App controls, captions, profile overlays and responsive layouts can cover parts of an image. Leave breathing room around headlines, logos and faces, especially on full-screen vertical artwork and wide banners.
Crop first, then resize
If the source image has a different ratio from the destination, decide what to keep before exporting. Cropping removes edges; resizing changes pixel dimensions. Avoid forcing width and height independently because it distorts the image. Use the image crop tool and image resize calculator together.
Frequently asked questions
Can I upload one size everywhere?
Sometimes, but the display crop can differ. Create placement-specific versions when the composition or text matters.
Are these sizes permanent?
No. Platforms adjust formats and display behavior. Treat this chart as a practical starting point and verify current official documentation.
Should I make text close to the edge?
No. Keep essential text and logos comfortably inside the canvas so cropping and interface overlays are less likely to cover them.