Can cover images be fully displayed in ArcGIS StoryMaps?

Answer

By default, images added as cover images in ArcGIS StoryMaps are cropped to fit the frame, so it is not possible to display the entire image. However, configuring the cover design settings can display most of the image's content. Esri recommends resizing the image before uploading it as a cover image. The ideal aspect ratios for a cover image are 1:1, 3:2, 4:3, or 16:9. For images that do not fit these ratios, choose the desired focal point to adjust the image's position within the cover frame.

Shown below is a cropped cover image in ArcGIS StoryMaps.

Apply the relevant workflows to display most of the cover image's content in ArcGIS StoryMaps.

Configure the design of the cover

1. Log in to ArcGIS Online and open ArcGIS StoryMaps.
2. On the Stories tab, click + New story.
3. Select Start from scratch .
4. On the header, click Design.
5. In the Design pane, under Cover, click Full and close the pane.

6. In the story, click Add cover image or video.

7. In the Add an image or video window, on the Upload tab, click Browse your files and select the image to be used as the cover image.
8. Click Add.

Note: 
Leave the Story title panel empty.

9. On the header, click More actions  and select Story settings.
10. In the Story settings menu, on the Display tab, under Date on cover, select None (hide date).
11. Click Save.

Note: 
To display the cover image without a shadow, click Change panel appearance , and in the Panel appearance pane, click Transparent with light shadow.

12. Click Publish.

Adjust the focal point of the image

In ArcGIS StoryMaps, modify the image used as the cover image by adjusting its position to ensure it is displayed as intended. The image's focal point can be adjusted to reposition the image within the cover image frame, regardless of device size. Refer to ArcGIS StoryMaps: Add and configure media for instructions to adjust the focal points in ArcGIS StoryMaps.

Shown below is most of the cover image's content of the published story in ArcGIS StoryMaps.