How to Add a Custom Cover Image to Instagram Reels

Upload a custom thumbnail for your Instagram Reels to control how they look on your profile grid

2 min readUpdated 3 months ago

Why Use a Custom Cover Image?

When you post an Instagram Reel, Instagram automatically picks a frame from your video as the cover thumbnail. This isn't always the most flattering or on-brand frame. A custom cover image lets you choose exactly what appears on your profile grid, keeping your feed looking polished and consistent.

Cover Image Requirements

  • Formats: JPEG or PNG
  • Max file size: 8 MB
  • Recommended aspect ratio: 9:16 (vertical, same as Reels)

How to Add a Custom Cover

  1. Go to Create New Post in the sidebar
  2. Upload a video file
  3. Select Instagram as your platform
  4. Click the 🎬 Reel format button
  5. Below the format selector, you'll see a Custom Cover Image section
  6. Click Upload cover image
  7. Select a JPEG or PNG image from your computer
  8. You'll see a small preview of the cover thumbnail
  9. Write your caption and use the publishing panel on the right to Publish or Schedule

Removing a Cover Image

If you change your mind, click the Remove button next to the cover image preview. Instagram will then use an auto-selected frame from your video instead.

Where the Cover Image Appears

Your custom cover image will be shown:

  • On your Instagram profile grid — this is the main reason to use a custom cover
  • In the Reel preview inside SocialCal before you post
  • On the Scheduled Posts page as the post thumbnail
  • In the Grid Preview planner so you can see how your feed will look

Tips

  • Design covers in advance: Create a template in Canva or Figma with your brand fonts and colors, then export as JPEG/PNG
  • Use 9:16 aspect ratio: This matches the Reel format and will display correctly everywhere
  • Keep text in the safe zone: Instagram crops cover images slightly on the profile grid (closer to 4:5), so keep important text and elements in the center
  • Use the Grid Preview: Go to Posts > Scheduled and switch to Grid view to see how your custom cover will look alongside your other posts before it goes live
  • Works with Trial Reels too: You can combine custom covers with Trial Reels for the best of both features

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