Many writers and aspiring writers use Medium’s features to spread the word online. While writing content can get your point across, using images with your content can send a clearer message, especially in thumbnails.
If you’re wondering how to add a featured image on Medium, you’re in the right place. Continue reading to discover more about this unique tool and how to add it to your next article.
How to add a featured image
Today, many read most of it online and “judging a book by its cover” has taken on a new meaning. Thumbnails are the new cover of the book, so if you want to capture the attention of potential readers, yours will have to be convincing. Fortunately, there are many ways to enhance your articles with images on Medium.
Add an image
Before you can designate one of your photos as featured, you must post it to your story. If you don’t have images posted to your story yet, here’s how to do it:
- In a post, create a new line and click the “+” symbol on the left.
- Select the small camera icon labeled “Add an image.”
- Your computer’s File Explorer will open automatically. Find the image you want to use and then click on it.
- The photo will be added to your article.
Select a featured image
By default, Medium will select the first of the uploaded images as the thumbnail. If that’s not the one you want to submit, here’s how to choose a specific one:
- When you have completed your article, click the green “Publish” button in the top right corner.
- On the left side of the menu are your images. Select the one you want to use as a featured image.
Alternatively, you can designate a featured image by selecting the image in your article. Press “Shift + F” to mark it as featured. You’ll also see it in the preview card when you press the “Publish” button.
Establish a focal point
Sometimes an image will not work well if posted in its entirety. Luckily, Medium thought of that and gave users tools to crop images that will present better on social media.
From your desktop:
- Hold down the Alt/Opt key.
- Choose a focal point in the image and left click on it with the mouse.
- The app automatically crops the image and you’ll see a green circle indicating the new focal area.
Please note that this new focal point can be seen in the preview and post lists on the website. If you are not happy with the overall look, simply follow the steps above and crop the image again.
How to change the featured image in middle
If you change your mind about a featured image, you can change it in a few easy steps.
- Find the item whose featured image you want to change in your Dashboard.
- In the lower right corner, click the “…” button to open the menu.
- Select “Edit story.”
- Locate the image you want to use, click on it, and then press “Shift + F” on your keyboard.
You can also choose a new Featured Image on the publishing screen.
Additional FAQs
What is a featured image?
A featured image is sometimes called a “thumbnail” or “post thumbnail.” These photos represent published content, whether it is a web page or an inpidual post. On Medium, these featured images represent the first thing a potential reader typically sees when scrolling through post lists, and is usually a deciding factor in whether or not they click on a story.
Please note that you can choose how many (or few) images to include in a post, but only one can be a Featured Image. Typically, writers will choose a photo that captures the essence of the content as the main or featured image.
What types of images can I use on Medium?
You can use any royalty-free image. The image can be yours or downloaded from a royalty-free site.
Get more readers with featured images
A good image can make or break readership, and many online users select reading material by its “book cover” or thumbnail. Lucky for you, Medium understands the power of a carefully chosen image and has given you the tools to use it effectively. Just remember to select your focal point carefully and if you find that an image doesn’t work, you can always change it.
Do you use featured images on Medium? Do you use your own or royalty-free images? Let us know in the comments below.
