How to Create QR Codes for Scheduled Short Posts (Step-by-Step)

QR codes are a powerful way to move Short-form viewers to long-form content, blogs, or resources—even after the post is scheduled. Follow the steps below to create, brand, and deploy QR codes correctly for Shorts, Reels, and TikToks.

Step 1: Choose the Destination Link

Before creating your QR code, decide where it should send viewers:

• Related blog post
• Long-form YouTube video
• Free resource or download
• Link-in-bio / content hub (recommended for flexibility)

Best practice for scheduled posts:
Use a permanent landing page or a link hub so your QR does not become outdated.

Step 2: Create the QR Code

You have two reliable options depending on your needs.

Option A: Google Built-In QR Code (Fast & Simple)

1. Open the webpage you want to link to
2. Right-click anywhere on the page
3. Select “Create QR code for this page”
4. Click Download

• File format: .jpg
• Smaller file size
• No account required

Option B: Dynamic – Tracked and URL changeable QR Code (Flexible & Professional)

1. Create a short link using a service such as:

• Bitly
• Linktree
• Beacon
• https://www.the-qrcode-generator.com/ 2 FREE Dynamic QR Codes, and some tracking tracking

1. Generate a Dynamic QR code from that link

2. Download as PNG or JPG

• Allows click tracking
• Destination URL can be changed later
• Ideal for scheduled or evergreen content

Step 3: Brand the QR Code

What you’ll need

• Your downloaded QR code (PNG, .jpg is smaller file)

• Your logo (PNG with transparent background preferred)

• Editing software:

  • Photoshop
  • Microsoft Publisher
  • Canva (desktop) (owns your content)
  • Branding Steps

1. Open the QR code image in your editor

2. Place your logo in the center of the QR code

3. Size the logo just large enough to:

• Cover the default center icon (if present)
• Stay under 20–25% of the QR surface

1. Place the QR + logo on top of a square background

• • Use a light off-color (light gray, cream, soft brand color)

2. Export as PNG or .jpg, square format (1:1)

This creates a single, clean QR image ready for video or thumbnails.

Step 4: Insert the QR Code Into Shorts (CapCut Free)

NOTE: CapCut has license to use your uploads and creations

1. Import your video
2. Add the QR image as an Overlay
3. Position it:

• Bottom-center or bottom-right
• Avoid platform UI zones (likes, captions, subscribe)

1. Display duration:

• • Minimum 3–5 seconds

Add a clear call-to-action above the QR:

1. “Scan for Full Details”
2. “Read the Full Blog”
3. “More Info → Scan”

Tip: QR codes scan best when the final scene pauses or slows slightly.

Step 5: Test Before Scheduling

Before scheduling your Short:

• Scan the QR on at least two different phones
• Confirm:
  • Fast load time
  • Mobile-friendly layout
  • No login required

Once scheduled, the QR cannot be corrected without re-uploading.

Comparison Table: Google QR vs Tracked QR

Summary:

• Google QR = speed & simplicity
• Tracked QR = control & analytics

Branded QR End-Screen Layout (Optimized for Shorts)

Recommended Layout

• Canvas: 9:16 (Shorts format)
• QR Placement: Bottom-center or bottom-right
• Background: Clean, low-contrast color or blurred frame
• Logo: Embedded in QR center only
• Text (Top or Above QR):
  • “Scan for the Full Guide”
  • “Read the Full Blog”
  • “More Details → Scan”

Timing

• Display end-screen for 3–5 seconds
• Keep motion minimal
• Avoid covering the QR with subtitles or UI elements

Why This Works

• High scan success
• Clear viewer instruction
• Consistent branding
• Reusable across multiple Shorts