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How to choose a video cover

Pick a frame from the video or set a custom cover image, and see which platforms can use each kind of cover.

How-toWho it's for:OwnerAdminEditorInstagramFacebookYouTubeTikTok
Checked on 24 October 2026

When a post has a video, you can choose the image people see before it plays. Kredia offers two kinds of cover: a frame from the video itself, or a custom image. Each platform accepts only some of these, and Kredia warns you before you schedule if a cover can't be used.

Before you start

  • The post has a video. The cover panel appears after you upload a video or paste a direct video link.
  • A platform that supports covers is selected. Instagram, Facebook, YouTube or TikTok. Pinterest, Threads and LinkedIn don't take a custom cover.
  • For a custom image, have a public link ready. The cover field takes a direct link to an image (for example ending in .jpg), not an upload.

What each platform accepts

Platform Frame from the video Custom image
Instagram Yes Yes
Facebook No Yes
YouTube No Yes, on verified channels only
TikTok Yes No
Pinterest, Threads, LinkedIn No No

Choose the cover

  1. In the composer, add the video under Photo or video.
  2. The Cover frame panel opens under the video. It lists what each selected platform accepts.
  3. To use a frame, click Pick a frame and drag the slider to the moment you want. The panel shows the time of the frame.
  4. To use your own image, click Custom image and paste a direct link to the image. A small preview appears.
  5. Finish the post and click Schedule Post.
  6. If a selected platform can't use your cover, a Heads up about the cover: box lists what will happen on each platform. Click Continue anyway to keep going, or Cancel to change the cover first.

What happens when a cover doesn't fit

  • Custom image on TikTok: TikTok picks a frame from the video instead.
  • Frame on Facebook or YouTube: the platform generates the cover itself.
  • Any cover on Pinterest, Threads or LinkedIn: the cover is ignored.
  • Custom image on YouTube: YouTube applies it only on verified channels; otherwise it's skipped.

The post still publishes in every case. Only the cover changes.

See also

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