How to Pick the Perfect Cover Image for Your Medium Article

A single glance at your cover image is enough for the audience to build their first impression. And what happens if that image doesn’t portray the right message? You lose your audience before they even start reading. So, here are a few tips that help you choose the perfect cover images.

The cover image is your first shot at gaining good impressions from your audience.

But before you jump into your database of stock photos and pick random images, take a step back! Ask yourself these questions:

• Does this image relate to your target audience?
• What does it say about your article? What does it say about you?
• Is it in tune with the tone of the article?

The idea of images, videos, or GIFs isn’t to just grab your audience’s attention. They also need to evoke an emotion. The images need to generate curiosity in the audience to read your article.

So, what do you do?

You have two options:

1) You can either go through stock image searches to find an image that portrays your idea and looks good

2) You can use a tool like Canva to create images

Stock images

When it comes to cover images, many authors often face the challenge of finding the perfect image for their blog. Stock photos provide an excellent solution.

There are plenty of good stock images out there that can give you some inspiration. If you don’t want to spend money on a premium account, go through the free ones and see what catches your eye.

But suppose you want something more personal and unique. In that case, there is also an alternative option — designing your own templates with a tool like Canva.

Canva

Canva is an easy-to-use tool that is also free. You can upload photos from your phone or computer and then edit them with text, graphics, etc. Use bold colors and templates to grab attention. Add a hint of your own style.

Many bloggers are now doing this because it gives them a much greater level of control over the end result.

Finally, don’t be afraid to get creative with your images.

Have fun!

Summary:

Before you choose a cover image for your article, ask yourself these questions:

• Does this image relate to your target audience?
• What does it say about your article?
• Is it in tune with the tone of the article?

You have two options: 1) Go through stock images to find a photo OR 2) Use a tool like Canva to create or re-design images.