Can’t Upload Artwork on Steam? Here’s How to Fix It

Steam is one of the biggest digital distribution platforms for PC gaming, and its community features allow users to personalize their profiles with screenshots, achievements, guides, and artwork. However, some users encounter frustration when they can’t upload their artwork properly. Whether it’s a persistent error message or simply nothing happening when you hit “Upload,” the issue can be maddening—especially after spending time creating something you’re proud of.

TL;DR

If you’re struggling to upload artwork on Steam, it’s probably due to a permissions issue, improper file formatting, or not associating your file with the right game. Make sure the game you’re uploading for is in your library and supports community artwork. Also, check your file size and format. If all else fails, clear your browser cache or try a different browser.

Common Reasons You Can’t Upload Artwork on Steam

Before diving into the solutions, it helps to understand some of the common reasons why uploading artwork fails on Steam:

• File size or format issues: Steam has specific requirements for artwork files.
• Uploading to a game you don’t own: You usually can’t upload artwork for a game unless it’s in your library.
• Community upload restrictions: Steam may restrict uploads from recently created or limited accounts.
• Internet or browser issues: Sometimes, the problem lies in a faulty connection or browser behavior.

Step-by-Step Fixes to Try

If you’re facing trouble uploading artwork, try the following methods in order to troubleshoot and fix the problem.

1. Check File Requirements

Steam enforces strict rules on file size and format. If your file doesn’t meet these requirements, it will fail to upload.

• Max file size: 8MB
• Accepted formats: PNG, JPG, and GIF (for animated images)
• Dimensions: While there is no fixed dimension requirement, using typical wallpaper ratios like 1920×1080 is recommended

Tip: Try opening your file in an image editor and exporting it in a supported format if you’re unsure.

2. Use an Allowed Game

Artwork must be associated with a game in your library that supports community artwork uploads.

• You must own the game: Steam often blocks uploads if the game isn’t in your account.
• Some games don’t allow artwork uploads: Check the store page or discussions to see if other users have had similar problems.

Fix: Make sure the game appears in your Steam account and has a visible Community Hub. You can’t upload artwork for non-Steam titles or restricted games.

3. Try a Different Browser

Believe it or not, browser-related issues are a very common culprit—especially with script-blocking extensions or outdated versions.

Recommended Browsers:

• Google Chrome
• Mozilla Firefox
• Microsoft Edge

Steps:

1. Log out of Steam on your current browser.
2. Clear your cache and cookies.
3. Try logging in on a different browser and attempt the upload again.

Pro Tip: Try using Steam’s Desktop Client instead of the web browser if issues persist.

4. Ensure Your Account Isn’t Limited

Valve imposes certain limits on new or suspicious accounts to prevent spam and abuse. If your Steam account is “limited”, you might not be able to upload artwork or access all community features.

You may be limited if you:

• Have spent less than $5 on Steam
• Haven’t verified your email address
• Haven’t been active in the community

To lift your account limits:

1. Spend at least $5 in the Steam store (on games, wallet credit, etc.).
2. Verify your email from Steam’s settings.
3. Enable Steam Guard for account protection.

After fulfilling these conditions, community features, including artwork uploads, should unlock.

5. Use the Correct Upload Method

There are two different types of uploads most users confuse: “Artwork” and “Screenshot Showcase”. They work differently and require proper tagging and selection.

For artwork:

1. Go to your Steam profile.
2. Click on the “Artwork” tab located below your profile picture.
3. Click “Upload Artwork.”
4. Choose “Not associated with a specific game” only if it’s profile art. Otherwise, pick a game you own.
5. Fill in the title, tags, and upload your file.

Bonus Tip: Animated profile artwork often requires a Steam Level 10+ profile and the use of Steam Points Shop backgrounds and frames.

6. Turn Off Extensions and Script Blockers

Browser extensions like ad-blockers, privacy shields, or script blockers can interfere with Steam’s JavaScript-based upload mechanism.

To fix this:

• Temporarily disable all extensions related to security, ad-blocking, or scripting.
• Try uploading again with a fresh session.
• If using Chrome or Firefox, try opening an Incognito or Private window.

It’s especially common for uBlock Origin, NoScript, or Privacy Badger to cause upload failures on the Steam site.

When All Else Fails: Contact Steam Support

If you’ve tried all the solutions and still can’t upload artwork, it might be a deeper account-specific issue or even a bug. Contacting Steam Support is your final resort—but they’re usually responsive for things like community feature malfunctions.

Steps to get support:

1. Go to Steam Support.
2. Click on “Steam Community” under “Games and Applications.”
3. Go to “I can’t upload artwork” or submit a new topic if that doesn’t appear.
4. Describe your issue thoroughly, including:
   • Browser type
   • File format and size
   • Your account level and whether you’ve uploaded artwork successfully before

Extra Tips for Successful Artwork Uploads

• Be active in the community: Join groups, post comments, and share. More activity often increases visibility and trust factor.
• Use meaningful titles and tags: Helps your artwork get better engagement and is sometimes required for visibility.
• Participate in discussions: Steam’s community forums are great for troubleshooting and sharing custom templates for artwork shapes and sizes.

Conclusion

While uploading artwork on Steam seems straightforward, a number of pitfalls—from file issues to account limitations—can block your creative expression. Fortunately, most problems are easy to fix once you identify the cause. Whether it’s switching browsers, verifying your account, or trimming the file to a smaller size, you’ll likely find success with one of the steps above. Now that you know what to do, you’re just a few clicks away from making your profile stand out with original art!