The basic goal of every video thumbnail is to get maximum clicks. In fact, a thumbnail’s main purpose is to attract the audience, attract more people, and get them to view the content. However, if you want to gain maximum benefits from your thumbnail, you need to know how to create an awesome thumbnail. There is a lot that goes into creating a thumbnail that works well and today we’re going to mentioning them for you.
What is a Thumbnail?
The simplest definition of a thumbnail would be that they are reduced-size versions of videos or pictures. A thumbnail is a compressed preview image of the original content that is used as a placeholder. The size of the thumbnail depends on the platform. This actively means that the size of the thumbnail varies across all platforms.
Here are some thumbnail size examples below in respect to certain platforms;
Google’s image search: When creating a desktop version thumbnail for Google’s image search, 177 pixels is the most appropriate size.
Amazon: At Amazon, the size of thumbnails varies across different applications. Generally, the height of a thumbnail on Amazon is 200 pixels and the size of preview images on category pages is 150 pixels.
YouTube: Thumbnails on YouTube have a size of 210 x 118 pixels on the start page. The size of the thumbnail used for video suggestions is 168 x 94 pixels.
Pinterest: Pinterest has a fixed thumbnail image width of 236 pixels. However, as the screen of the viewer may be wider, more images are displayed.
Why Use Thumbnails?
One of the most obvious and biggest advantages of thumbnail images is the reduced file size it has in comparison to the original image. Due to this size difference, a website will have a significantly faster loading time. Other than this, viewers can decide whether or not they want to view the original content by judging the thumbnail.
So, another advantage of using thumbnails is that you let the audience know what the content is about in a short and attractive way. A good thumbnail will always entice the viewer to check out the original content.
The benefits don’t end here. Further advantages of using thumbnails are that they are space savers, user friendly, and, increase viewer activity.
How to Create Video Thumbnail
Honestly, you will find a ton of online videos on this topic. But, the main thing most of them miss out to mention is what to consider when creating a thumbnail. Creating a thumbnail is one thing, but creating one that is great is something different. Below have mentioned the 3 key aspects you need to consider and focus on when creating a thumbnail in order to create one that is brilliant. We have also mentioned the 5 design tips you need to follow in order to make a great video thumbnail.
5 design tips for your thumbnails
- Don’t overdo colors. Always use colors that fit appropriately with your theme and content. Use meaningful colors. Viewer research will help you come up with the right colors.
- Using a face in the thumbnail always connects with the viewer. Keep that in mind when creating your next thumbnail
- Action shots should be used to increase viewer interactivity
- Relevant and informative text should be included if the thumbnail itself isn’t able to communicate what the video is about.
- Branding always adds value and Increases recognition.
3 key aspects of a good video thumbnail
- The thumbnail should communicate what it is about clearly
- Have a hooking factor that will make the audience excited for the video
- Not only grabs attention but also entices the viewer to check the video out
In short, a video thumbnail should have the ability to be exciting and enticing to the viewer. It should be able to quickly grab the viewer’s attention and drive them to watch the content.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, we’ve mentioned every little detail you need to know regarding video thumbnails. We have also mentioned some design and creating thumbnail tips. Hopefully, this article was helpful and has resolved any confusion you might have had regarding video thumbnails.
Here at Animation Agency, it’s all about educating our viewers on various topics. We also provide professional and affordable animation services. So, if you’re interested in working with us or want to get in touch with us for consultancy, visit our website, or call us at 800-314-4049!
