How to Upload Photos and Videos to Pinterest from Mobile or Desktop

Pinterest is more than just a platform for sharing pretty pictures—it's a powerful visual search engine with over 553 million monthly active users, all actively seeking inspiration, solutions, and products. Whether you’re a creator, a brand, or a business, how you upload your content can make or break your visibility. Get it right, and you can see a significant boost in website traffic and conversions.

From blog graphics and product photos to video tutorials and promotional content, Pinterest offers endless opportunities to showcase your brand. But here’s the catch: to stand out in a crowded feed, you need to master the art of uploading and optimizing your Pins—both on mobile and desktop.

In this article, we’ll guide you through each step, showing you how to upload photos and videos, optimize them for maximum performance, and leverage tools like PinMaker to streamline your strategy for greater impact.

Why Does Uploading Photo and Video Content on Pinterest Matter?

If you’re not uploading high-quality photos and videos to Pinterest, you’re missing out on critical opportunities to grow your brand. Without eye-catching, well-crafted visuals, your content risks getting lost, and you miss the chance to stand out, drive traffic, and connect with a highly engaged audience.

Let’s explore the top reasons why uploading to Pinterest is a wise choice:

• Video Pins Are on the Rise: More users are consuming videos on Pinterest than ever. Posting short, visually rich videos helps you stand out in the feed and increase saves, clicks, and brand discovery.
• Photos Drive Long-Term Traffic: Static Pins with strong visuals and optimized descriptions often perform well over time, making them perfect for long-term SEO value.
• Increased User Interaction: Visually appealing content encourages saves, shares, and clicks, boosting the chances of your Pin being seen by a broader audience.
• Cross-Device Consistency: Optimizing your Pins for mobile and desktop ensures a seamless experience for all users, increasing engagement.

Though Pinterest offers immense potential to boost your visibility and drive traffic, uploading your Pins the right way—whether from mobile or desktop—makes all the difference in how they perform. 

It’s about ensuring your Pins stand out. For that, one of the important things is that they need to meet Pinterest’s technical requirements. Let’s walk through the key photo specs you’ll want to keep in mind before hitting publish.

Photo Upload Essentials: Specs and Best Practices You Should Know

Your photos need to meet Pinterest’s formatting standards to perform well—especially on mobile, where 82–85% of users access the platform. Well-optimized images not only look better but also help you get more saves, clicks, and visibility.

Here’s what you should keep in mind when uploading photos:

• Ideal Pinterest Pin Image Size: The ideal Pinterest Pin image size is 600 x 900 pixels and should be in a JPEG or PNG format for optimal display. Pinterest’s own recommendations align with this size, and studies have shown that portrait/vertical images with an aspect ratio between 2:3 to 4:5 get more repins than extremely tall images.
  
  • Mobile & Desktop: Both mobile and desktop users will see your Pin in portrait format more often than landscape. So, avoid using horizontal or landscape images (e.g., 16:9 aspect ratio), as they tend to get smaller in the feed, reducing click-through rates.
• Image Format: Use standard file types like .jpg or .png for smooth uploading and high-quality display. These formats ensure your Pins load quickly and look sharp.
• File Size: To ensure fast loading without sacrificing quality, keep your file size under 20MB. Pinterest's platform supports high-quality images, but the bigger the file, the slower the loading time, which can affect user experience.

• Dimensions for Optimal Engagement: Pinterest recommends an aspect ratio of 2:3, such as 1000 x 1500 pixels, which is ideal for mobile screens. Images in this size consistently drive higher engagement because they’re sized perfectly for users’ mobile devices, where most Pinterest browsing happens.
  
  • For Mobile: This size is ideal for mobile users, who represent the majority of Pinterest’s traffic. Using these dimensions guarantees your image looks great on all screen sizes.
  • For Desktop: While the ideal size is 600 x 900 pixels, desktop users will still see your Pin in full resolution. However, ensuring the dimensions fit mobile users first is key to reaching the broader audience.

• Resolution: Pinterest recommends using high-resolution images (at least 600 x 900 pixels) to maintain a professional, crisp look across all devices. This ensures that your Pins will display clearly and in high quality, regardless of the device used to view them.
• Avoid Cluttered Visuals: Pinterest thrives on clean, visually striking images. Avoid cluttered visuals—simple, focused images with ample space for overlays work best. A clutter-free design ensures that users can quickly understand your message and find what they're looking for.
• Preview Before Posting: Before you hit “publish,” always preview your Pin to ensure it looks great on both desktop and mobile. Pinterest automatically resizes your images to fit the feed, but sometimes, slight adjustments may be needed to make sure the content is aligned and visible as intended.

Now, let’s explore the video upload essentials to ensure greater engagement.

Pinterest Video Specs: Optimize for Quality and Engagement

Before you hit upload, it’s essential to format your videos correctly to ensure smooth playback and maximum visibility. Pinterest prioritizes high-quality videos, so staying within these specs gives your content the best chance to perform on both mobile app and desktop version.

Here’s what you need to keep in mind:

• Supported Formats: Use common file types like .mp4 or .mov for hassle-free uploads.
• File Size: Keep your video under 2GB to ensure quick uploads and playback.
• Video Length: Pinterest allows up to 15 minutes for organic Pins, but videos under 1 minute tend to drive the most engagement.

• Resolution: Aim for 1080p to maintain visual clarity, especially on mobile.
• Aspect Ratio: Stick to 2:3 (vertical) or 1:1 (square) formats. These perform best across Pinterest’s feed layout and mobile experience.

Always preview your video before publishing to make sure nothing gets cut off or distorted.

How to Upload Image Pins to Pinterest: Step-by-Step Guide

Uploading image Pins to Pinterest is a simple yet powerful way to showcase your brand, products, or creative content. Whether you’re using a web browser or the Pinterest app on Android or iOS, the process is straightforward. Let’s walk through each platform and show you how to get your Pins up and optimized.

On Web

• Log in to Pinterest: Go to pinterest.com and sign in to your account.
• Start a new Pin: Click Create at the top left.
  
  • If you're using a business account, click the menu icon (three lines), then choose Create Pin under the Create section.

• Upload your image(s): Click the arrow-circle-up icon to upload images from your computer, or drag and drop files into the upload area.
  
  • You can upload up to 10 images at once—each image will generate its own Pin.
  • To create a single Pin with multiple images or videos, use the Pinterest app instead.
• Add Pin details: 
  
  • Title: Add a short, clear title. Use the Pin Maker’s AI Pinterest Title Generator to create a compelling title that captures attention. 
  • Description: Write a brief, engaging description that explains what the Pin is about. Use the Pin Maker’s AI Pinterest Description Generator to write a keyword-rich description for better reach.
  • Add Alt Text: Add “Alt text” to your pins with the AI Pin Alt Text Generator.

• Link: (Optional) Add a destination URL to drive traffic to your site.
• Board: Select a board to save your Pin to or create a new one.
• Related topics: Tag up to 10 relevant topics to improve your Pin’s visibility in search.

• Schedule your Pin (optional): If you have a business account, you’ll see the option to publish your Pin at a later date—up to 30 days in advance.
• Edit your image (optional): Click the pencil icon in the top-right corner of the image to:
  
  • Add overlay text
  • Change the aspect ratio
  • Make other visual edits
• Publish your Pin: When everything’s ready, click Publish to go live.

On Android or iOS (Pinterest App)

1. Open the Pinterest app and sign in.
2. Tap the + icon to start a new Pin: You'll find it at the bottom center of the screen. 

3. Then select Pin.

4. Choose your image.
   
   • Pick a photo from your device (you may need to allow app permissions).
   • Or tap the camera icon to take a new picture.
   • If you select multiple files, Pinterest will stitch them together into a video Pin.

5. Tap Next.
6. Enter your Pin details.
   
   • Title: Write a short, descriptive title. Use the AI Pinterest Title Generator to craft a scroll-stopping title.
   • Link: (Optional) Add a link to an external site or product page.

• Tag products: You can tag items already on Pinterest or link to a product directly.
• Description: Explain what your Pin is about. You can also include hashtags. Try the AI Pinterest Description Generator to write a keyword-packed description that boosts visibility.
  Alt Text: Generate clear, helpful Alt Text with the AI Pin Alt Text Generator.

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• Board: Choose where to save the pin or tap it to create a new board.
• Related topics: Add up to 10 tags to help more people discover your content.

7. Schedule your Pin (optional): If you’re on a business account, you’ll have the option to publish later—up to 30 days ahead.
8. Edit your image (optional).
   
   • Tap the pencil icon at the top-right of the image to tweak your content.
   • Use the bottom menu to add text, apply effects, or adjust the layout.
9. Tap Next to review everything.
10. Tap Create to post your Pin.

How to Upload Video Pins to Pinterest: Step-by-Step Guide

Want to share motion-rich content that grabs attention fast? Video Pins are perfect for tutorials, product demos, or storytelling. Here’s how to upload them, whether you’re working from your desktop or your phone:

On Web

• Log in to your Pinterest account.
• At the top left, click Create, then select Create Pin. (Business accounts: open the menu first.)
• Click the upload icon to choose a video from your computer or drag and drop it directly.
  
  • You can upload up to 10 videos—each one becomes a separate Pin.
  • Want to combine multiple files into one? That’s only possible through the Pinterest app.
• Under the upload preview:
  
  • Cover: Click Edit cover and pick a thumbnail that best represents your video.
  • Title: Add a clear, engaging title.
  • Alt Text: Use the AI Pin Alt Text Generator to add relevant and compelling descriptions to your videos.
  • Description: Write a keyword-rich summary of what your video is about.
  • Link: Add a URL to drive traffic to your site, blog, or product page.
  • Board: Choose an existing board or create a new one.
  • Tags: Add up to 10 related topics to improve discoverability.
• Do you have a business account? You’ll see an option to schedule the Pin up to 30 days in advance.
• Click the pencil icon at the top right of your video to edit it—add text, change the aspect ratio, or adjust the design.
• Hit Done to save your edits.
• When everything looks good, click Publish.

On Android / iOS (Pinterest App)

• Open the Pinterest app and log in.
• Tap the plus icon at the bottom, then tap Pin.
• Pick a video from your phone’s gallery or tap the camera icon to record a new one.
  
  • Did you select multiple clips or photos? Pinterest will stitch them into a single video Pin.
• Tap Next.
• Use the bottom menu to trim, add text overlays, and apply effects to your video.
• When you're done editing, tap Next again.
• Now, fill in your Pin details:
  
  • Cover: Tap Edit cover and choose a frame that draws people in.
  • Title: Add a scroll-stopping headline. Use the AI Pinterest Title Generator.
  • Link: Drop in a URL to guide viewers to more info or a product page.
  • Tag products: Highlight items featured in your video by linking to Pinterest products or retail sites.
  • Alt Text: Use the description Alt text for your videos.
  • Description: Write something informative and search-friendly. Hashtags are welcome. Use the AI Pinterest Description Generator.
  • Board: Add your Pin to an existing board or start a new one.
  • Tag related topics: Select up to 10 to help the right audience find you.
• If you're using a business account, you'll see the option to schedule the Pin for later.
• Under More options, decide whether to enable comments and shopping suggestions.
• Finally, tap Create to publish your video Pin.

Want to tweak your Pins before they go live? Let’s explore how to manage your drafts with ease.

How to Find and Publish Your Pinterest Drafts?

Are you not ready to publish your pin just yet? Pinterest lets you save drafts so you can revisit them later—whether you're polishing a design, refining a description, or planning ahead. Just make sure you understand how drafts work before relying on them.

How to Find Drafts on Pinterest

On Web (Desktop)

• Log in to your Pinterest account.
• Click Create at the top left of your screen.
• If you have a business account, click the hamburger icon and choose Create Pin under the Create section.
• Under Pin drafts, you'll see your saved drafts.
• Click a draft to open and continue editing it.
• To manage drafts:
  
  • Use Select All to choose every draft.
  • Or use individual checkboxes to select specific ones.
• To duplicate a draft, hover over it and click the ellipsis icon (⋯).
• To delete a draft, select it and click the trash can icon.
• To edit a draft, click the pencil icon next to it.
• When you’re ready, click Publish. 

On Android or iOS (Pinterest App)

• Log in to the Pinterest app on your mobile device.
• Tap the add (+) icon at the bottom of your screen.
• Tap Pin.
• Tap the folder icon in the bottom-right corner to open your saved drafts.
• You can edit drafts by selecting them and tapping the trash can icon to remove those you no longer need.
• To keep a draft for later, tap the folder icon again after viewing or editing.
• For iOS only: You’ll also see a download icon. Use this to save the image or video to your device if needed.

How to Publish a Pinterest Draft

• Select the draft you want to publish (on web or mobile).
• Continue editing your Pin if needed — make changes to the title, description, link, tags, and board.
• Once you're ready:
  
  • On the desktop, click Publish.
  • On mobile, tap Create.

Important things to know about Pinterest drafts:

• Drafts expire after 30 days. If you don’t publish them within that window, they’ll be deleted and can’t be recovered.
• Drafts aren’t cross-device. If you start a pin draft on your phone, you’ll need to finish it and publish it on that same device.
• Batch publishing is desktop only. Want to publish multiple drafts at once? You’ll need to use Pinterest on the desktop, where you can store and publish up to 50 drafts at a time.
• Mobile device storage matters. You need at least 100 MB of free storage on your phone to create or save new drafts in the Pinterest app.

Now that we’ve understood how to upload pins, let’s discuss optimizing and scheduling Pins so you don’t miss out on the perfect time for visibility and engagement.

Smart Optimization and Scheduling Tips

Posting high-quality content is just the beginning. To truly make your Pins stand out and drive results, you need to optimize and schedule them strategically. Without smart optimization, even the best images can get lost in the crowd. Here’s how to take your Pinterest game to the next level with a few simple yet effective tips.

• Edit for Visual Impact: Use bright, high-quality images or crisp vertical videos. Visual clarity boosts both engagement and saves.
• Schedule Strategically: Use Pinterest’s built-in scheduler or third-party tools like PinMaker to publish when your audience is most active, like in the evenings and on weekends.
• Use Topic Tags (Up to 10): Pinterest allows you to tag relevant topics to your Pin, improving its chances of being recommended in user feeds and search results.
• Optimize Descriptions: Include relevant keywords naturally, and write descriptions that tell users exactly what they'll get by clicking.
• Include Clear CTAs: A well-placed “Shop Now,” “Read More,” or “Try This Idea” encourages users to take action.

Now that you’ve mastered the technical side of uploading and optimizing Pins, let’s explore how PinMaker can help you take your Pinterest strategy even further.

Optimize Your Pinterest Workflow with PinMaker

PinMaker is your ultimate content companion to enhance your Pinterest visibility. Designed to simplify and supercharge your strategy, it helps:

• Generate SEO-Optimized Titles & Descriptions: Attract more clicks with AI-crafted, keyword-rich copy tailored for Pinterest searches.
• Discover Smart Hashtags: Expand your reach with data-backed hashtag suggestions that align with your niche.
• Plan & Schedule with Ease: Keep your content consistent and timely with built-in scheduling tools.
• Optimize Boards, Bios, & Profiles: Ensure that your Pinterest content works together for maximum discoverability.
• Stay Aligned with Pinterest's Best Practices: From board structures to alt text, PinMaker keeps your strategy up-to-date.

Start using PinMaker today and turn every Pin into a powerful asset that drives visibility, traffic, and results.

FAQs

1. Can I upload both photos and videos directly from my phone to Pinterest?

A: Yes, you can easily upload both photos and videos using the Pinterest mobile app. Just tap the '+' icon, select your media, and follow the prompts to add your title, description, and board.

2. What’s the best format and size for uploading videos to Pinterest?

A: Pinterest recommends using .mp4 or .mov formats. For best performance, keep the file size under 2GB, with a minimum resolution of 240p (though 1080p is ideal) and an aspect ratio of 1:1 or 2:3.

3. Can I schedule Pins to post later?

A: Yes, Pinterest’s native scheduling tool allows you to schedule Pins up to two weeks in advance. For more advanced scheduling features, tools like PinMaker can help automate and optimize your posting calendar.

4. How long do Pinterest drafts stay saved?

A: Draft Pins remain available for up to 30 days. Be sure to finalize and publish your draft before they expire, or you may lose your work.

5. How do I upload content to multiple boards at once?

A: Pinterest doesn't currently support uploading to multiple boards in one step. However, you can create similar pins and manually save them to other boards, or you can use third-party tools like PinMaker to streamline this process.

6. How does PinMaker help with uploading and optimizing Pins?

A: With PinMaker, you can generate SEO-friendly Pin titles, descriptions, and hashtags, help plan and schedule your Pins, and ensure your boards and profile are fully optimized for Pinterest's algorithm.