Iconic album covers often feature a powerful visual that immediately captures attention, whether through bold colors, contrast, or a unique composition. Think of The Beatles' "Abbey Road" with its simple yet memorable crosswalk photo.

These covers are closely tied to the artist's image or musical style, effectively communicating the tone or theme of the album. For instance, Pink Floyd's "The Dark Side of the Moon" cover with its prism graphic aligns with the album's experimental sound and themes of introspection.

Many iconic covers rely on minimalistic designs or strong symbolic elements instead of elaborate visuals, which can leave a lasting impression. Nirvana’s "Nevermind" cover, for example, uses a single, striking image of a baby in water, symbolizing innocence juxtaposed with themes of consumerism.

The best album covers avoid trendy elements, leaning on timeless design principles that make them relevant across generations. Fleetwood Mac's "Rumours" uses a classic, understated black-and-white photo that still feels sophisticated today.

Often, the typography on these album covers is unique and instantly recognizable, making it an integral part of the visual identity. The Rolling Stones' "Sticky Fingers" and its simple, unmistakable font style are a prime example.

Some of the most iconic covers create intrigue or provoke thought by leaving room for interpretation, inviting the listener to explore the music for answers. Radiohead’s "Kid A" cover uses abstract shapes and digital landscapes to hint at the album’s themes without giving too much away.

Whether it’s a photograph, an illustration, or a collage, iconic album covers use memorable and high-quality artwork. For instance, David Bowie’s "Aladdin Sane" features a stylized, dramatic portrait that’s iconic in pop culture.

Many iconic album covers capture a moment in time or reflect the culture and social issues of their era. Bob Dylan’s "The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan" shows him walking through New York, capturing the early '60s counterculture vibe.

Lastly, these covers are often inseparable from the artists themselves. Over time, the album covers become synonymous with the band or musician’s brand, like Michael Jackson’s "Thriller", which is as iconic as Jackson himself.