Note: As of April 2021, Facebook no longer allows users to add a cover video to their profile pages. However, you can still use a static image or a slideshow as your cover photo. If you’re looking to accelerate the growth of your business, it’s essential to explore new ways of attracting and engaging customers. A Facebook cover video is a powerful tool that can help you achieve this.
With captivating animations, trendy effects, and visually appealing designs, a Facebook cover video can dramatically enhance how your brand is perceived. Interested in learning how to create a cover video that your Facebook followers will love? Keep reading to discover effective strategies for creating a standout Facebook cover video. A well-designed Facebook cover video can serve as a dynamic introduction to your brand, offering a visually engaging experience for your visitors. By incorporating motion and storytelling, you can communicate your brand message more effectively than with a static image. This not only grabs attention but also keeps your audience engaged longer, increasing the chances of conversion. Stay ahead of the competition by utilizing this creative tool to showcase your products, services, or brand values uniquely and memorably.
Image Source: Wixblog
What is a Facebook Video Cover?
A Facebook cover video is a short (20–90 seconds) video that appears at the top of your Facebook page, near your profile picture. These cover videos are public, meaning all visitors to your page will see them. This makes it a crucial visual element in your social media PR strategy, as it’s the first thing visitors notice.
With Facebook users watching up to 8 billion video views daily, video content has proven to be incredibly popular on this platform. Given this, it’s essential not to overlook the impact of video. Incorporating video content, such as animated Facebook cover videos, can significantly boost your business’s visibility and engagement.
By utilizing a Facebook cover video, you can immediately capture your audience’s attention and create a lasting impression. It’s an excellent opportunity to showcase your brand’s personality, products, or services in an engaging and dynamic format. Video content allows you to communicate more than just information it can convey emotions and tell your brand’s story in a way static images simply can’t. Additionally, Facebook’s algorithm tends to favor video content, meaning your cover video could help increase your page’s visibility and reach. Don’t miss out on this powerful tool to create your brand’s presence and connect with potential customers.
Why Use Facebook Cover Video?
Typically, it only takes a few seconds for a user to decide whether to stay on a page or move on to something more engaging. That’s why a creative Facebook cover can have a significant impact on audience engagement on your page.
Here are a few more reasons why using a cover video on your business page can make a difference A well-created cover video grabs attention immediately and encourages visitors to explore your page further. It provides an opportunity to showcase your brand’s story, personality, and values dynamically. Videos have the power to convey emotions and messages that resonate with viewers more effectively than static images. Additionally, cover videos help set your brand apart from competitors who may still be using standard images. By using this tool, you can increase interaction and create a memorable first impression that keeps visitors engaged.
1. It Captures Attention:
A vibrant and engaging cover video makes your social media presence stand out, leaving a lasting first impression. A well-created video not only draws in new visitors but also helps retain the interest of your existing audience, keeping them engaged. It’s an excellent way to showcase your brand in a way that resonates immediately and sets you apart from the competition. A dynamic video invites people to linger longer on your page, increasing the chance of conversion.
2. It Introduces Your Brand, Service, or Product:
Show, don’t just tell! A creative video can effectively highlight the benefits of your brand, service, or product in a way that words alone can’t. A short, dynamic video showcasing your offerings can capture attention far better than a lengthy text description. It allows potential customers to quickly grasp what you offer and why they should care. Plus, it communicates value instantly, boosting engagement and interest.
Though the video is muted by default, viewers can choose to turn on the sound. However, consider making the video so informative that it doesn’t need sound or music to convey your message. This ensures accessibility while still delivering an impactful experience. It also helps keep the attention of users who may be browsing in a public space or on mute.
3. It Showcases Your Team:
Sharing a cover video that features your team adds a personal touch, fostering a connection between your brand and customers. When viewers get a glimpse of your company’s culture values, attitude, and vision they’re more likely to feel a sense of loyalty and stay engaged with your brand long-term. Showcasing your team humanizes your business, building trust with potential clients and partners. It highlights the people behind your products and services, creating a deeper connection with your audience.
Facebook Cover Video Specs
Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Perfect Facebook Cover Video:
Before starting the Facebook cover video creation process, it’s essential to understand the technical specifications that will ensure your video appears sharp, loads quickly, and meets Facebook’s requirements. Below is a complete guide to help you create a visually appealing and well-optimized cover video for your page.
1. File Size:
Facebook doesn’t specify a minimum file size for cover videos, but keeping the file size manageable is crucial. Aim for a video file under 1.75 GB. While this is the maximum allowable size, smaller videos load faster on user devices, especially on mobile, providing a smoother viewing experience. Reducing the file size can help you retain more viewers, as loading delays often lead to users skipping your video altogether.
2. Video Length:
The length of your cover video is a significant factor in its effectiveness and user engagement. Facebook requires cover videos to be between 20 and 90 seconds long. This length range allows enough time to showcase a message without overwhelming the viewer with a lengthy clip. Think about what you want to convey within this time frame and keep it concise. Avoid making the video too short, as it may feel incomplete, and ensure it doesn’t exceed 90 seconds, or Facebook will not allow it to be uploaded.
3. Dimensions:
When preparing an animated cover video, pay close attention to its dimensions. Facebook’s minimum requirement for cover video dimensions is 820 x 312 pixels. However, to provide a better, more polished display, it’s recommended to use 820 x 462 pixels, which aligns better with Facebook’s cover layout on desktop and mobile screens. This additional height accommodates more of your animation’s visual elements, preventing cropping and ensuring your cover looks clean and professional across different devices.
4. Format:
For the best quality and compatibility, choose a video format supported by Facebook. The recommended formats are .mp4 or .mov, as these provide optimal compression and playback across devices. Consider a resolution of 1080p (Full HD) for your cover video. Although a lower resolution may still display adequately, 1080p provides a sharper, more refined look, making your page appear more professional. Viewers are more likely to engage with pages that appear visually appealing, and high-definition animation contributes to an overall positive impression.
Tips for Making an Effective Facebook Cover Video
Creating a cover video isn’t just about technical specs. Here are some creative tips to make your video engaging:
- Showcase Your Brand Personality: Use your cover video to tell a story or showcase what makes your brand unique. This could be through product highlights, customer testimonials, or scenes that convey your brand’s values.
- Incorporate Subtle Motion: Aim for smooth, seamless animations rather than jarring movements. Subtle animation keeps viewers engaged without overwhelming them.
- Optimize for Sound: While Facebook cover videos default to mute, consider adding captions or graphics to convey essential information visually. If sound is crucial to your message, make it compelling enough for users to click to enable audio.
- Loop Seamlessly: Facebook cover videos loop automatically, so make sure the end of your video flows smoothly back to the beginning. A seamless loop keeps the viewer’s attention and creates a more professional appearance.
- Test on Mobile: Most users will view your Facebook page from a mobile device, so ensure your video looks just as good on smaller screens. Check for cropped text or important elements that may be cut off on mobile.
How to Create and Post an Engaging Facebook Cover Video: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re not a professional animator, creating an engaging Facebook cover video may seem like a daunting task. But don’t worry thanks to a variety of free online tools and apps, you can still create an eye-catching video that captures the attention of your audience. Whether you want to use pre-made templates or start from scratch, there are multiple ways to bring your creative vision to life. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Option 1: Use a Pre-Made Template:
One of the easiest ways to add a video to your Facebook cover is to use a pre-made template with the correct 16:9 aspect ratio. Many online platforms offer a wide range of templates, which are often categorized by themes such as “web design,” “business,” or “social media.” To use this option:
- Search for Templates: Simply search for a template by entering relevant keywords. For example, search for “web design” or “professional cover video.” The platform will present you with a variety of ready-to-use templates.
- Customize the Template: Once you’ve selected your template, you can easily personalize it by adding your text, images, or visual elements. You can also add audio tracks to enhance the overall mood of your video. The drag-and-drop interface most tools offer makes this process quick and user-friendly, even if you don’t have experience with video editing.
- Finalize the Design: After customizing your template, review the video to ensure everything aligns with your brand or the message you want to convey. Make sure the video looks good both on desktop and mobile screens, as Facebook users view content on a variety of devices.
Option 2: Create a Custom Video from Scratch:
If you’re feeling more creative and want a fully original cover video, you can start from scratch with a blank canvas. This method allows you to add your personal touch to every aspect of the video. Here’s how:
- Start with a Blank Canvas: Choose a blank canvas with the required dimensions (usually 820 x 462 pixels for optimal Facebook display). This gives you complete freedom to design your video the way you envision it.
- Add Visual Elements: Use images, animations, or graphics that reflect your brand, message, or theme. You can upload custom visuals, illustrations, and videos, or use stock footage available on many platforms. This method allows you to incorporate a lot of creative freedom into the process.
- Incorporate Text and Audio: After adding the visual elements, you can include text to highlight key messages, calls to action, or other important information. Add background music or voiceovers to make the video more engaging. You can also adjust the timing of the text and visual elements to create a more dynamic effect.
- Refine Your Video: Review the video to ensure it aligns with your vision. Check that all the elements flow together smoothly and that the final product looks professional. It’s also important to make sure the video is the correct length (between 20-90 seconds) and meets Facebook’s file size requirements.
Limitations of Free Tools:
Both options can typically be used for free on various online platforms, but there are some limitations when using the free version. The free tools may:
- Limit access to advanced features, such as higher-quality visuals, extra customization options, or premium audio.
- Include watermarks or ads on your video, which can detract from its overall professional appearance.
- Offer fewer templates or design elements than their paid versions.
If you need access to more advanced features or a broader range of customization options, you can upgrade to a premium version of the platform. Upgrading usually provides access to high-quality stock footage, more template options, advanced editing tools, and the ability to export videos without watermarks.
Final Steps: Download and Upload to Facebook:
Once you’re happy with your newly created cover video, it’s time to download it to your device. Most platforms allow you to export videos in various formats, such as .mp4 or .mov, which are compatible with Facebook.
- Download the Video: After finalizing your design, simply click the download button and save the video to your computer or device.
- Upload to Facebook: Log in to your Facebook page, navigate to the cover section, and click on the camera icon to upload your new video. Choose the video file you just downloaded and follow the prompts to set it as your cover video.
- Adjust the Display: Facebook allows you to reposition and crop the video if needed. Make sure the video fits within the cover frame, ensuring that key elements are visible and well-positioned.
How to Upload a Facebook Cover Video
Uploading a cover video to your Facebook page is a straightforward process. Just follow these steps:
- Navigate to Your Page: Go to your Facebook Business Manager and select your page.
- Edit Your Cover: Click on the “Edit” button in the bottom right corner of your cover photo.
- Upload Your Video: Choose the “Choose from videos” option and upload the video you’ve prepared.
Tip: For the best visual impact, make sure the main action or key information about your offerings is placed in the center of the video. This ensures your video looks great across all devices.
Examples and Templates for Creating Facebook Cover Videos
1. Ferrari Facebook Business Page:
If you’re looking for some extra inspiration, we’ve put together a collection of impressive Facebook cover videos.
Ferrari showcased their car in a sleek and dynamic way with this captivating short video cover.
These videos not only grab attention but also effectively convey brand identity. Take a look at how brands use creativity to make an impact in just a few seconds.
Image Source: Ferrari
2. 24/7 Fitness Facebook Business Page:
The 24/7 Fitness cover video features a series of black-and-white images in a slideshow format, with bold, bright text overlaying each one.
This simple yet impactful design grabs attention while delivering the brand’s message clearly. It’s a perfect example of using minimalist visuals to make a powerful statement.
Image Source: 24/7 Fitness
3. AnimalsAsia Facebook Business Page:
AnimalsAsia’s Facebook cover video features impactful images accompanied by emotional music, offering viewers a glimpse into the brand’s mission and accomplishments.
The video beautifully captures the essence of their work, creating an emotional connection with the audience. If you’re pressed for time or lack video production resources, there are many pre-designed templates to choose from. Pick one and easily personalize it to match your unique style.
Image Source: Animals Asia
These templates provide an efficient and hassle-free way to produce professional-quality videos that resonate with your audience and showcase your brand’s personality.
Final Thoughts
While Facebook no longer supports cover videos for personal profile pages, it remains a valuable tool for business pages. A well-created Facebook cover video can significantly enhance your brand presence, captivate your audience, and effectively communicate your message in a dynamic format. By following the technical guidelines, optimizing your video for both desktop and mobile viewing, and incorporating creative elements like animation, text, and subtle motion, you can create a cover video that resonates with viewers and increases engagement. Whether you use a pre-made template or design a custom video from scratch, this tool offers businesses an excellent opportunity to stand out from the competition and leave a memorable impression on visitors.
Investing in a high-quality Facebook cover video can elevate your brand’s visual identity and foster stronger connections with your audience. It’s a powerful, cost-effective way to enhance your digital presence and drive engagement across social platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
How long should a Facebook cover video be?
A Facebook cover video should be between 20 and 90 seconds long. This allows you to showcase your content without losing the viewer’s attention. It’s also important to consider that the video will loop, so ensure it makes sense to repeat. If the video is too long, it might not capture viewers’ attention effectively, so it’s best to keep it short and impactful. Avoid overly complex content that may confuse or bore your audience.
Can I add a Facebook cover video?
Yes, you can easily add a cover video to your Facebook profile or page. It’s an excellent way to share your story, promote a product, or engage your audience with dynamic content. Make sure the video meets Facebook’s recommended aspect ratio (820px by 312px for desktop) and upload it in an appropriate format (MP4 or MOV). You can also update your cover video as often as you’d like, keeping your profile fresh and relevant.
Do Facebook Cover videos play on Mobile?
Yes, Facebook cover videos play on mobile devices, but they have a few key differences compared to desktops. On mobile, videos auto-play but without sound, and users must tap the video to hear it. Additionally, mobile devices will crop the video differently, which may affect how the content is displayed. It’s a good idea to preview your cover video on both desktop and mobile to ensure it appears as intended on all devices.
Who can see my Facebook cover video?
The visibility of your Facebook cover video is controlled by your profile or page’s privacy settings. If your profile or page is set to “Public,” the cover video will be visible to everyone who visits your page. For business pages, the video is available to all followers. On personal profiles, you can limit the audience of your cover video to specific friends or groups by adjusting your privacy settings for posts. Always double-check these settings to ensure your video reaches the right audience.
Can I delete my Facebook cover video?
Yes, you can delete your Facebook cover video at any time. Simply hover over the cover video on your profile or page, click on the camera icon, and select “Remove Video” to delete it. Once removed, your cover photo will revert to the default image or your previous cover photo. If you want to replace it with a new video or photo, you can easily upload a new cover media. Deleting a cover video doesn’t affect any of your posts or other media.
