How Can I Insert an Image Into an MP3 File?
By Kristen Waters
MP3 files can store extra data (called metadata) in the form of ID3 tags. This information is usually added to the beginning or the end of the MP3 file. The image file should be either a PNG file or a JPEG file if you want to view the images in iTunes or an MP3 player. It is best to choose artwork that is no larger than 300-by-300 pixels if you want the image to be displayed correctly in the player.
MP3 Tag
MP3 tag is a free program that allows you to edit ID3 tags, including album artwork for one or more files at a time. When you open the software, you will see a blank window with no songs in it. Type the location of the music directory you want to work with in the "Directory" text box on the left side of the screen. This will populate the right side of the screen with all of the MP3 files in that directory.
Click on the file or files you want to edit. Right click in the image window on the left side of the screen under the "Directory" text box. There will be existing album art or the picture of a record in this window. Choose the "Add cover" option from the menu that appears. Browse to the location of the image file you want to use and click "Open." Click on "Save tag" under the "File" menu to save the new artwork to the file.
iTunes
The iTunes software also has the ability to edit the ID3 tags. Click "Library" in the "Source" window on the left side of the screen. Choose your MP3 file from the list on the right side of the screen and right click on the file. Select "Get info" from the menu. A new dialog window will appear. Click on the "Get Artwork" tab. Click the "Add" button and browse to the image file you want to use and click "OK" to close the window.
If you want to add the same picture to more than one MP3 file, hold the "Ctrl" key down as you select the files. Once all of your files are selected, you can right-click on any of the files and click "Get Info."
References
Writer Bio
Kristen Waters has been writing for the computer industry since 2004. She has written training materials for both large and small computer companies as well as how-to and informative articles for many online publications. She holds Bachelor of Science degrees from both York College of Pennsylvania and the University of Maryland.