Change the Cover Photo of an Instagram Post Guide
Learn how to change an Instagram post cover photo before publishing, compare frame vs custom image options, and optimize thumbnails for engagement.
How to Change the Cover Photo of an Instagram Post for Better Engagement
An Instagram cover photo — also called a reel thumbnail or video post preview — is the static image users see before deciding to watch your content. Whether you create Reels, IGTV videos, or standard video posts, the cover photo plays a critical role in catching attention, boosting click-through rates, and maintaining a cohesive profile aesthetic. This guide explains how to change the cover photo of an Instagram post before publishing, explores creative strategies for compelling visuals, and shares best practices for aligning covers with your brand.
---
Understanding What a Cover Photo Is and Why It Matters
On Instagram, a cover photo is more than just a placeholder image — it’s your video’s visual elevator pitch, presenting the content’s tone and topic at a glance. A strong cover photo can:
- Increase click-through rates (CTR)
- Make your profile grid more organized and appealing
- Communicate your video’s subject matter instantly
- Reinforce brand identity and consistency
---
Can You Change a Cover Photo After Publishing?
One of the most frequent questions creators ask is: Can you change the cover photo of a reel or video post after it’s live?
Currently, Instagram does not allow editing a cover photo once a post is published. The thumbnail becomes locked in place.
Here’s what can be done instead:
- Delete and re-upload with a revised cover photo — note this will lose all original engagement data such as likes, comments, and views.
- Plan ahead to select or design the right image before hitting “Post.”
If you are working with a draft, you still have the option to change the cover photo before publishing (explained in the next section).
---
Step-by-Step: Changing the Cover Photo Before Publishing
Follow these steps to set the cover photo before hitting publish:
- Launch Instagram and tap the `+` icon.
- Choose Reel or Post, then record or import your video.
- Tap Next to reach the preview editing screen.
- Select Edit cover or Cover to open the cover selection tool.
- Drag the slider to pick a frame from your video, or tap Add from Camera Roll to upload a custom image.
- Adjust image position within the crop window for optimal composition.
- Tap Done, add captions and tags, and tweak other settings.
- Hit Publish when ready.
---
Updating the Cover on a Reel Draft
If your post is still in draft mode, you can update its cover photo easily:
- Navigate to your profile and tap the Reels tab.
- Open the Drafts folder at the top of your Reels grid.
- Select the draft you want to edit.
- Tap Edit, then choose Cover.
- Pick a new video frame or upload a custom image from your device.
- Save changes or post immediately.
---
Custom Image vs Selected Frame: Choosing the Right Option
Instagram offers two primary methods for cover photo selection:
- Selected Frame: Extract a still from the actual video timeline.
- Custom Image: Upload a separate, fully designed picture from your device.
Comparison Table
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Selected Frame | Quick and simple; no extra files needed | Limited to existing video frames; may appear blurry or off-brand |
| Custom Image | High-quality, brand-aligned, fully designed | Requires additional editing and preparation |
---
Tips for Making Eye-Catching Cover Reels
Maximize engagement with these design principles:
- Bold Typography: Large, clear fonts for text overlays.
- High Contrast Colors: Grab attention with complementary hues.
- Visible Faces: Human faces often drive higher engagement.
- Brand Elements: Integrate logos or consistent graphic motifs.
- Minimal Clutter: Simplified imagery suits mobile viewing best.
---
Impact on Profile Grid and Overall Aesthetic
Your grid serves as a visual portfolio. Inconsistent covers can break the flow, while cohesive styles create a professional, curated look.
Advantages of aligned covers include:
- Amplified brand storytelling
- Streamlined and attractive profile layout
- Encouraging deeper exploration of your content
Use a template for all thumbnails to ensure uniformity.
---
Common Cover Photo Problems and Fixes
If issues arise:
- Blurry Image: Start with at least 1080×1920 px resolution.
- Poor Cropping: Use the cover tool’s crop box to focus essential elements.
- Upload Failures: Update the Instagram app, check your connection, and retry on another device if needed.
---
Optimizing Covers for Mobile and Desktop
While mobile is Instagram’s main platform, growing numbers of desktop viewers mean your cover design should:
- Keep text and focal points within the center safe zone (1080×1080 px) to prevent edge trimming.
- Avoid placing critical elements too close to corners.
- Test appearance across several devices pre-publication.
---
Aligning Covers with Brand Identity
Consistency fosters recognition and trust:
- Match your brand’s color palette and font choices.
- Use the same editing styles or filters across covers.
- Include subtle logos without overwhelming the image.
- Reflect your content tone — fun, minimalistic, or polished.
---
Real-World Examples of Effective Covers
Tailor visuals to content type:
Promotions:
Feature event info, promo codes, or bold banners.
Tutorials:
Show the finished result or a standout step.
Behind-the-Scenes:
Capture intriguing candid shots that leave viewers curious.
---
Pre-Publishing Cover Photo Checklist
Confirm your cover image quality before posting:
- Best frame selected or custom high-quality image uploaded
- Resolution meets at least 1080×1920 px
- Text is legible on mobile devices
- Design aligns with feed aesthetic
- Draft mode preview checked for correct cropping
---
By learning how to change the cover photo of an Instagram post effectively and planning ahead, you can enhance discoverability, drive engagement, and keep your profile cohesive. First impressions happen in seconds on Instagram — make your cover photo count.
Ready to boost your visual branding? Start refining your next reel’s cover today and watch your engagement rise.
