Creating Location-Based Graphics for Social Media
Location-based graphics are highly engaging on social media, helping you share geographic stories, highlight destinations, and connect with audiences through visual content. Well-designed map graphics perform well across platforms.
In this guide, we'll explore how to create effective location-based graphics for social media.
Why Location Graphics Work on Social Media
Location graphics excel because:
- Visual storytelling — Maps tell geographic stories
- High engagement — Visual content performs well
- Shareability — Maps are highly shareable
- Brand building — Consistent style builds recognition
- Versatile content — Works for many post types
Platform-Specific Guidelines
Feed Posts:
- Size: 1080 × 1080px (square)
- Format: JPG or PNG
- Optimize for mobile
- Keep text large and bold
Stories:
- Size: 1080 × 1920px (vertical)
- Format: JPG or PNG
- Full-screen design
- Text readable at small size
Reels:
- Size: 1080 × 1920px (vertical)
- Format: MP4 or MOV
- Animated maps work well
- Engaging visuals
Posts:
- Size: 1200 × 630px (recommended)
- Format: JPG or PNG
- Optimize file size
- Clear messaging
Cover Photos:
- Size: 1640 × 859px
- Format: JPG or PNG
- Account for profile picture
- Professional appearance
Posts:
- Size: 1200 × 627px
- Format: JPG or PNG
- Professional styling
- Clear messaging
Company Pages:
- Size: 1192 × 220px (cover)
- Format: JPG or PNG
- Brand alignment
- Professional quality
Pins:
- Size: 1000 × 1500px (2:3 ratio)
- Format: JPG or PNG
- Vertical orientation
- Engaging visuals
Best Practices:
- Tall, vertical format
- Bright, eye-catching colors
- Clear, readable text
- Descriptive titles
Twitter/X
Posts:
- Size: 1200 × 675px
- Format: JPG or PNG
- Keep file size small
- Clear, concise messaging
Design Tips
Visual Hierarchy
Create clear hierarchy:
- Map as background or focal point
- Text stands out clearly
- Important elements emphasized
- Balanced composition
Color Choices
Effective colors:
- High contrast for readability
- Brand colors for consistency
- Platform-appropriate palettes
- Mobile-friendly colors
Typography
Text considerations:
- Large, bold fonts
- Readable at small sizes
- Limited text amount
- Clear messaging
Composition
Layout principles:
- Rule of thirds
- White space usage
- Balanced elements
- Mobile-first design
Content Ideas
Travel Content
Ideas:
- Countries visited maps
- Destination highlights
- Travel route visualization
- Bucket list maps
Design:
- Travel-inspired colors
- Engaging visuals
- Clear destinations
- Shareable format
Business Content
Ideas:
- Office locations
- Service areas
- Market presence
- Global reach
Design:
- Professional styling
- Brand colors
- Clear messaging
- Credible appearance
Personal Branding
Ideas:
- Location-based stories
- Geographic journey
- Regional connections
- Personal maps
Design:
- Personal style
- Engaging visuals
- Storytelling focus
- Authentic appearance
Best Practices
Consistency
Maintain consistency:
- Same map style
- Consistent colors
- Uniform branding
- Recognizable style
Optimization
Optimize for platforms:
- Correct dimensions
- Appropriate file sizes
- Fast loading
- Mobile-friendly
Engagement
Increase engagement:
- Ask questions
- Use location tags
- Include call-to-action
- Encourage sharing
Analytics
Track performance:
- Monitor engagement
- Test different styles
- Optimize based on data
- Improve over time
Tools and Resources
- World in Dots — Generate location graphics
- Design software — Customize and style
- Social media tools — Scheduling and management
- Analytics tools — Track performance
Creating Your Graphics
Step 1: Choose Platform
Select platform:
- Determine primary platform
- Check size requirements
- Consider audience
- Plan content strategy
Step 2: Design Map
Create map:
- Generate base map
- Customize style
- Apply branding
- Optimize for platform
Step 3: Add Content
Add elements:
- Text overlays
- Location markers
- Branding elements
- Call-to-action
Step 4: Optimize and Export
Final steps:
- Check dimensions
- Optimize file size
- Export in correct format
- Test on platform
Final Thoughts
Location-based graphics are powerful tools for social media engagement. Well-designed map graphics tell stories, build brand recognition, and connect with audiences through visual content.
The key is matching your design to platform requirements while maintaining your brand identity. With tools like World in Dots, creating engaging location graphics is easier than ever.
Ready to create location graphics? Generate your map and start designing for social media today.