Creating Social Media Graphics, Thumbnails & Marketing Assets
AI image generation is a game-changer for content creators and marketers. This lesson shows you how to create professional-quality visual assets for specific platforms and use cases.
Platform-Specific Dimensions
Every platform has ideal dimensions. Start every project by setting the right aspect ratio.
| Platform / Use | Dimensions | Midjourney --ar |
|---|---|---|
| Instagram Post | 1080x1080 | --ar 1:1 |
| Instagram Story/Reel | 1080x1920 | --ar 9:16 |
| YouTube Thumbnail | 1280x720 | --ar 16:9 |
| Twitter/X Post | 1200x675 | --ar 16:9 |
| LinkedIn Banner | 1584x396 | --ar 4:1 |
| Facebook Cover | 820x312 | --ar 21:8 |
| Pinterest Pin | 1000x1500 | --ar 2:3 |
| Blog Header | 1200x630 | --ar 2:1 |
YouTube Thumbnails
Thumbnails are one of the highest-impact use cases for AI image generation.
What Makes a Great Thumbnail
- Bold, high-contrast colors that stand out in feeds
- Clear focal point — usually a face or key object
- Minimal text space — leave room for 3-5 words of overlay text
- Emotional expression — surprise, curiosity, excitement
Thumbnail Formula
DALL-E 3 for Text Thumbnails
Since DALL-E 3 can render text, use it for thumbnails with built-in text:
Instagram Content
Feed Posts
Story Backgrounds
Carousel Templates
Create a consistent visual theme across carousel slides:
Blog & Website Graphics
Hero Images
Featured Images
Marketing Assets
Ad Creatives
Email Header Graphics
Presentation Backgrounds
Batch Production Tips
1. Create a Style Template
Define your brand's AI prompt template once:
2. Use Midjourney's --repeat for Variations
product showcase background, soft gradient, premium feel --ar 1:1 --r 4
This generates 4 grids (16 options) in one command.
3. Maintain Consistency with --sref
Use a style reference image to keep all marketing assets visually cohesive:
[specific asset description] --sref [brand reference URL] --sv 200 --ar 1:1
Key Takeaway
Start every marketing asset by choosing the right dimensions for your platform. Use Midjourney for aesthetic backgrounds and lifestyle imagery, DALL-E 3 for text-based graphics and precise layouts. Create a brand prompt template once and reuse it across all assets. Batch production with --repeat and style consistency with --sref will dramatically speed up your content workflow.