Designing Social Media Assets in 2023: A Technical Guide
Social media has become an essential part of marketing and branding for businesses of all sizes. With so much competition on social media platforms, it’s important to design assets that stand out and engage your target audience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the technical considerations and best practices for designing social media assets for all major platforms in 2023.
FacebookFacebook is one of the most popular social media platforms, and it offers several opportunities for businesses to showcase their brand. Here are the recommended sizes for various Facebook assets:
Facebook cover photo: 820 pixels wide by 312 pixels tall
Profile photo: 180 pixels wide by 180 pixels tall
Shared image: 1200 pixels wide by 630 pixels tall
Shared link: 1200 pixels wide by 628 pixels tall
Event image: 1920 pixels wide by 1080 pixels tallWhen designing Facebook assets, keep in mind that they will be viewed on both desktop and mobile devices. Make sure that your assets are optimized for both platforms and are easily readable on smaller screens. Facebook also supports video and live streaming, so consider incorporating those features into your social media strategy.
InstagramInstagram is a visual platform that is ideal for showcasing products and services. Here are the recommended sizes for various Instagram assets:
Instagram post: 1080 pixels wide by 1080 pixels tall
Instagram story: 1080 pixels wide by 1920 pixels tall
Instagram reel: 1080 pixels wide by 1920 pixels tall
Instagram profile photo: 320 pixels wide by 320 pixels tallWhen designing Instagram assets, focus on high-quality images and clear messaging. Use Instagram’s built-in filters and editing tools to enhance your images and create a consistent aesthetic. Instagram also supports video content, so consider incorporating video into your social media strategy.
TwitterTwitter is a fast-paced platform that requires concise messaging and eye-catching visuals. Here are the recommended sizes for various Twitter assets:
Twitter header photo: 1500 pixels wide by 500 pixels tall
Twitter profile photo: 400 pixels wide by 400 pixels tall
Twitter shared image: 1024 pixels wide by 512 pixels tall
Twitter card image: 1200 pixels wide by 628 pixels tallWhen designing Twitter assets, focus on simplicity and clarity. Use bold typography and contrasting colors to make your messaging stand out. Twitter also supports video content, so consider incorporating video into your social media strategy.
LinkedInLinkedIn is a professional platform that is ideal for showcasing your brand’s expertise and thought leadership. Here are the recommended sizes for various LinkedIn assets:
LinkedIn cover photo: 1584 pixels wide by 396 pixels tall
LinkedIn profile photo: 400 pixels wide by 400 pixels tall
LinkedIn shared image: 1200 pixels wide by 627 pixels tallWhen designing LinkedIn assets, focus on professionalism and credibility. Use high-quality images and clear messaging to showcase your brand’s expertise. LinkedIn also supports video content and live streaming, so consider incorporating those features into your social media strategy.
YouTubeYouTube is a video-focused platform that is ideal for engaging your audience through storytelling and visuals. Here are the recommended sizes for various YouTube assets:
YouTube channel art: 2560 pixels wide by 1440 pixels tall
YouTube profile photo: 800 pixels wide by 800 pixels tall
YouTube video thumbnail: 1280 pixels wide by 720 pixels tallWhen designing YouTube assets, focus on storytelling and emotional impact. Use high-quality visuals and clear messaging to engage your audience and tell your brand’s story. YouTube also supports live streaming and community features, so consider incorporating those features into your social media strategy.
Technical Considerations
When designing social media assets, it’s important to consider the technical requirements for each platform. Here are some technical considerations to keep in mind:
Image resolution: For optimal quality, use high-resolution images that are at least 72 DPI.
File type: Use JPEG, PNG, or GIF file formats for images, and MP4 or MOV file formats for video content.
Mobile optimization: Since the majority of social media users access these platforms on their mobile devices, make sure your assets are optimized for mobile screens. Keep in mind the mobile cut-off for each platform, which can vary based on the device and platform.
Accessibility: Consider accessibility when designing your assets. Use alt text and captions for images and videos to make them accessible to people with disabilities.
Consistency: Use a consistent visual style and brand identity across all of your social media assets to help build brand recognition.Conclusion
Designing social media assets in 2023 requires careful consideration of the technical requirements and best practices for each platform. By following the recommended sizes and technical considerations outlined in this guide, you can create assets that are optimized for each platform and stand out to your target audience. Keep in mind the importance of consistency and accessibility when designing your assets, and don’t be afraid to experiment with new features and strategies to engage your audience.