Reels are now the go-to format for video content on Instagram, generating over 200 billion views daily across Instagram and Facebook. This widespread engagement makes Reels an essential tool for brands and creators that are looking to grow on social media.
Fortunately, it’s pretty easy to make Instagram Reels, but there are a few tricks that can help you get more views and increase performance. One of those tricks is to create eye-catching Instagram video thumbnails–also known as Instagram Reel covers.
In this post, we’re going to teach you how to make Instagram Reel covers with the correct Reel cover size and best practices.
Instagram Reel Cover Size
Before you start creating, you need to know the correct size to use for your Instagram video thumbnail.
The best Instagram Reel cover size is 1080 x 1920 pixels with a 9:16 aspect ratio. This size will ensure that your video thumbnail fits perfectly within the Instagram Reels layout on the Explore page.
Instagram Reel covers share the same dimensions as Instagram Reels and Instagram Stories, making it super easy to repurpose content.
Why You Need Instagram Video Thumbnails
There’s a common misconception that you don’t need Instagram video thumbnails because Reels will automatically play in the feed.
However, this isn’t entirely true. While Instagram Reels can autoplay in feeds, users can also find Reels on the Instagram Explore page, which is where an engaging Reel cover will come in handy.
Choosing a strong Instagram Reel cover can help you increase your exposure, attract new followers, and drive more sales. The growth opportunities are endless.
How to Make Instagram Reel Covers
If you want to learn how to make video thumbnails with the correct Instagram Reel cover dimensions, you came to the right place. You can use a free, easy design tool like Snappa to create an Instagram Reel cover in minutes!
To start, create a custom graphic size of 1080 x 1920 pixels. Or, you can choose a free Instagram Story template as a starting point since they share the same dimensions as Instagram Reel covers.
Next, use Snappa’s easy design tools to add a background image, text, icons, and shapes to your Instagram Reel cover. Feel free to use images from the built-in stock photo library, or upload your own photos to use in your design.
Make sure to use striking images and bold text to capture the attention of more Instagram users.
We also recommend keeping your main design elements in the center of your thumbnail because even though your Reel cover will display at full size on the Instagram Explore page, it will be displayed as a square on your profile grid.
Once you’re finished designing, you can save and download the thumbnail image from Snappa. Then follow the instructions below to learn how to add a thumbnail to an Instagram Reel.
Note: You’ll want to transfer the image to your phone or mobile device before the next step.
How to Add Instagram Video Thumbnails
To add an Instagram video thumbnail, you first need to create an Instagram Reel.
From the Instagram Reels editor, tap Next to reach the page where you type in your caption. Here, you can tap Edit Cover to add a cover photo to your Instagram Reel.
Once you add the Instagram Reel cover photo you downloaded from Snappa, Instagram will give you a preview of how the video thumbnail will look.
You can type a caption and choose your desired settings, then tap Share to post your Reel on Instagram.
Now, when users come across your Reel on the Instagram Explore page, they will see your custom Reel cover as the video thumbnail.
Instagram Reel Cover Design Tips & Best Practices
Follow these 5 essential tips to make Instagram Reel covers that perform well and boost engagement:
- Use High-Quality Images: Make sure to use clear, sharp images in your Instagram Reel covers. High-res cover photos will attract views and appear more professional.
- Make Sure it’s Relevant: Your Instagram Reel cover design must be relevant to the topic and theme of your Reel. If your Reel cover features a photo of a Christmas tree but your Reel video is about car parts, viewers will feel misled and may swipe away.
- Incorporate Branding: If you run an Instagram business account, try including your logo or other key brand elements in your Instagram Reel covers. This can increase brand awareness and users may even start to recognize your brand on other social platforms.
- Keep it Simple: Try to keep your Reel cover design simple and visually-pleasing. Adding too many design elements can make your video thumbnail over-cluttered, and may cause viewers to scroll past your content.
- Use Contrasting Colors: By using the right color combos in your Instagram video thumbnails, your Reels will stand out on the Explore page and attract more views and engagement.
Instagram Reel Cover Examples
If you’re looking for some thumbnail inspiration, these Instagram Reel cover examples are sure to help you out.
The best part is, these examples are all free thumbnail templates that can be fully customized in Snappa. Have a look!
New Launch Instagram Reel Cover
Recipe Instagram Reel Cover
Marketing Instagram Reel Cover
Tech Instagram Reel Cover
Final Thoughts
It’s clear that Instagram video thumbnails are important for increasing engagement and getting more views on Instagram Reels. To achieve the best results, your Instagram Reel covers need to be designed well and use the correct IG Reel cover size.
Even if you have no design experience, you can now create Instagram Reel cover photos in minutes by using our free templates, easy design tools, and recommended tips.
If you’re ready to grow your Instagram page and start making stunning Instagram Reel covers, get started with Snappa for free!
