When it comes to designing an impactful LinkedIn profile, one of the key elements is selecting the right background image. With over 722 million users on LinkedIn, standing out from the crowd with a professional, high-quality background image is essential. But what size should your LinkedIn background image be for maximum effect? Here’s a quick guide to help you determine the ideal dimensions and file size for your LinkedIn background photo.
LinkedIn Background Image Dimensions
LinkedIn specifies recommended dimensions for background images in order to ensure they display properly across platforms. The ideal LinkedIn background image size is:
- Desktop: 1584×396 pixels (1.91:1 aspect ratio)
- Mobile: 1128×376 pixels (3:1 aspect ratio)
Creating your background image at these exact dimensions will guarantee it fits perfectly on LinkedIn desktop and mobile app profiles. Anything smaller may become distorted or pixelated, while anything larger may be cropped by LinkedIn.
Tips for Creating Background Images
When designing your background image, keep these tips in mind:
- Use high resolution images for best quality
- Include branding elements or imagery relevant to your industry/role
- Add text sparingly – your name and headline will overlay the image
- Optimize the image for LinkedIn’s recommended 1.91:1 and 3:1 aspect ratios
- Double check the image looks good cropped to a square for mobile displays
LinkedIn Background Image File Size Limit
In addition to image dimensions, LinkedIn also specifies a maximum file size for background photos:
- 8MB limit for JPG, PNG or GIF formats
Ensuring your image is under 8MB will prevent upload issues or compression. To optimize the file size, use image editing software to reduce resolution or compress JPG files as needed.
Tips for Reducing Image File Size
If your background photo exceeds 8MB, try these troubleshooting tips:
- Resize the image to be slightly smaller than LinkedIn’s recommended dimensions
- Save the image as a compressed JPG at 60% quality
- Run the image through a file compression tool
- Convert large PNG files to JPG format
- Remove any unnecessary embedded color profiles from the image
With some adjustments, you can create a stunning LinkedIn background photo that conforms to the platform’s file size limits.
The Ideal LinkedIn Background Image
By following LinkedIn’s recommended specifications, you can create a background image that really makes your profile stand out. The ideal LinkedIn background photo will:
- Be 1584×396 pixels for desktop
- Be 1128×376 pixels for mobile
- Have a 1.91:1 or 3:1 aspect ratio
- Be high resolution and print quality
- Convey your personal brand or industry
- Look professional and aligned to your role
- Have a file size under 8MB
Investing time into crafting the perfect background image is one of the best ways to enhance your LinkedIn presence. Choose compelling imagery that captures your audience’s attention while adhering to LinkedIn’s recommendations. With an optimized background photo, you can make a fantastic first impression and stand out from the LinkedIn crowd.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the LinkedIn background image important?
Your LinkedIn background image is one of the first things people will notice when visiting your profile. It’s a key way to convey your personal brand, interests, and industry. An eye-catching photo that aligns to your professional identity can grab attention and leave a positive impression.
What types of background images work best?
Images related to your occupation or industry tend to work well. Landscape shots, office environments relevant to your work, conference photos, and brand imagery can all be effective. Avoid distracting or unprofessional images. The focus should be on you and your professional brand.
Can I use any image as my background?
LinkedIn allows any appropriate image to be used within their recommended specifications. However, to maximize the impact, ensure your background image looks polished and business-oriented. Personal vacation photos or distracting imagery should be avoided.
What’s the best file format for LinkedIn background images?
JPG is the recommended file format for LinkedIn background images. JPGs provide great compression while maintaining image quality. PNGs are also accepted but tend to produce much larger file sizes. For best results, save your image as a high quality JPG.
What happens if my image exceeds the 8MB size limit?
If your background photo is over 8MB, LinkedIn will likely compress or downsample the image, resulting in reduced quality. To avoid this, optimize your image to meet the size limit before uploading. This will ensure it appears crisp and sharp on your profile.
Can I customize the mobile and desktop background images?
Currently, LinkedIn does not allow setting different background images for mobile and desktop. The same uploaded image will be shown across platforms in the appropriate aspect ratio. You can design the photo with both desktop and mobile in mind.
How often can I change my LinkedIn background photo?
LinkedIn allows you to change your background image as often as you like. You could update it weekly or monthly if desired. Just keep in mind that consistency is best for your personal branding, so avoid changing it too frequently.
Using Background Images Effectively
When used effectively, your LinkedIn background photo can be a powerful tool to enhance your profile. Here are some tips to use it strategically:
| Goal | Strategy |
|---|---|
| Strengthen your brand | Use imagery, colors, and design elements that reinforce your brand identity |
| Showcase credentials | Incorporate logos of degrees, certifications or organizations you’re affiliated with |
| Demonstrate company culture | For company pages, use office photos representing your work environment |
| Build authority | Speak at a conference? Upload a photo of you presenting on stage |
| Increase discoverability | Optimize with relevant keywords in the image file name and alt text |
Keep these goals in mind when brainstorming what type of image would be most strategic for your LinkedIn presence.
Conclusion
Maximizing your LinkedIn profile with a strong background image can give you a distinct edge in standing out from the crowd. By following the recommended 1584×396 pixel desktop dimensions, 1128×376 mobile dimensions, and 8MB file size limit, you can upload an image that looks fantastic across platforms. Invest time into developing a high quality, professionally designed photo that reflects your brand for best results. With an optimized background image that captures attention, you can take your LinkedIn presence to the next level.
