Frequently asked question

Can cover images be fully displayed in ArcGIS StoryMaps?

Last Published: June 26, 2024

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.

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 The Start from scratch icon.
  4. On the header, click Design.
  5. In the Design pane, under Cover, click Full and close the pane.
Configurations of the Cover options in the Design Pane.
  1. In the story, click Add cover image or video.
Adding cover image or video in a story.
  1. 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.
  2. Click Add.
Note: 
Leave the Story title panel empty.
  1. On the header, click More actions The More Actions button and select Story settings.
  2. In the Story settings menu, on the Display tab, under Date on cover, select None (hide date).
  3. Click Save.
The Date on cover configurations in the Story settings.
Note: 
To display the cover image without a shadow, click Change panel appearance The Change panel appearance button., and in the Panel appearance pane, click Transparent with light shadow.
  1. 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.

Cover image's content of published story displayed in StoryMaps

Article ID:000032784

Software:
  • ArcGIS StoryMaps

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