Podcast Episode Artwork Part II: Including iOS 17 Artwork UpdatesPodcast artwork is a requirement for each and every show to be universally accepted in podcast apps and directories; it's also a direct advertisement for what listeners can expect from the show. As of late episode specific podcast artwork has been increasingly popular. So much that Apple has now integrated into their directory. Tune in and check the show notes for details about all of our topics today as well as examples we found in the Apple Podcast app.Today’s Hosts: MacKenzie Bennett and Aaron HopeA Brief Recap of Part 1 that was released in May 2023Dos

Meet minimum requirementsLet it breatheDerive inspiration

Don’ts

Avoid DIY artworkUnderstand your audienceMaintain legibilityStay clear of explicit content and copyright issues

Podcast Episode Artwork and Podcast Show Artwork... serve different purposes and are used in specific contexts within the podcasting world. Here are the key differences and when and why podcasters might use one or the other:

1. Podcast Show Artwork

Purpose: Show artwork, also known as podcast cover art, is the primary image associated with your entire podcast series. It represents the podcast as a whole and is what potential listeners see when browsing podcast directories.Usage: It is used as the primary branding and promotional image for your podcast. It appears on platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and others, along with the podcast's name and description.When to Use It: Podcast show artwork is used consistently for the entire podcast's duration and serves as the visual identity for your podcast series.

2. Podcast Episode Artwork

Purpose: Episode artwork, on the other hand, is specific to individual podcast episodes. It provides a visual representation of a particular episode's content.Usage: Episode artwork is typically displayed when a listener is actively engaging with a specific episode. This can include the Now Playing screen, queue, and links shared on social media.When to Use It: Podcasters use episode artwork when they want to create a unique visual representation for specific episodes, highlighting something specific or relevant to the content of that episode.

When Podcasters Might Use Each

Show Artwork:

Consistency: Podcasters use show artwork to maintain a consistent and recognizable visual identity throughout their podcast. This helps with branding and making the podcast easily recognizable in directories.General Promotion: Show artwork is ideal for general promotion and branding efforts. It's what potential subscribers see when they first encounter your podcast.Establishing Brand: Show artwork is essential for establishing and building the podcast's brand identity. It sets the tone and expectations for what listeners can anticipate from the entire series.

Episode Artwork:

Highlighting Specific Content: Podcasters use episode artwork to emphasize or highlight specific topics, guests, or themes covered in a particular episode. This can help attract more attention and make the episode stand out.Variety and Creativity: Episode artwork allows for more creative and diverse visual representations. It gives podcasters the flexibility to experiment with different visuals for each episode.Enhanced Visual Context: For episodes with unique content, artwork can provide visual context to help listeners quickly grasp the subject matter.

Show artwork is about consistency and branding for the entire podcast series, while episode artwork is a tool for creativity and the opportunity to provide context for specific episodes.

Podcasters often use both to create a balance between brand recognition and highlighting unique content.iOS 17 Artwork UpdatesThis September they started supporting episode artwork.

Episode artwork can include original illustrations, graphics,