Design a Shorts cover for vertical and cropped previews
A vertical cover can appear differently across YouTube surfaces. Compose around a safe central subject, then check the upload path on your device.
A vertical cover can appear differently across YouTube surfaces. Compose around a safe central subject, then check the upload path on your device.
Start vertical
Use a 9:16 canvas for a vertical mockup. Put the face, product or result inside a central zone so a tighter crop still communicates. Keep small words away from the edges and bottom.
Compare with the long-form version
A split-screen layout that reads horizontally can get cramped vertically. Stack before and after states, or show just the result with one short label. Check both options without the title underneath.
Review the platform surface
YouTube documents different behavior by surface for vertical videos and Shorts. Use the platform preview and its current instructions for your channel. Keep the editable file in case you need a new crop.
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