Video thumbnails are the first thing that viewers see when they come across your content on platforms like YouTube, Vimeo, or Skillshare. In just a few clicks, viewers will decide whether to click and watch your video or move on to something else. With the right thumbnail, you can grab their attention, build interest, and increase clicks.
Creating stunning video thumbnails doesn’t require advanced design skills. In fact, you can make engaging and eye-catching designs even if you don’t consider yourself a design expert. In this guide, we will provide you with a few simple tips and tricks to create fabulous thumbnails that will make your videos stand out from the crowd.
First of all, it’s important to consider the message or theme of your video when designing a thumbnail. You want the thumbnail to be a visual representation of what viewers can expect from your content. Whether you’re creating comedy sketches, thoughtful vlogs, or informative tutorials, the thumbnail should give viewers a taste of what they’ll get by watching your video.
One of the most effective ways to make your thumbnails more engaging is by using contrasting colors. By placing contrasting colors next to each other, you can create a dramatic effect that catches the viewer’s eye. For example, you could use a bold title against a vibrant background or place images with contrasting colors in your thumbnail. This will make your thumbnail visually striking and increase its chances of getting clicks.
Another important element to consider when creating video thumbnails is the use of images. High-quality and relevant images can help tell a story and make your thumbnail more compelling. Whether you include images of yourself, your content, or related visuals, make sure they are clear, captivating, and aligned with your video’s message and audience.
Finally, don’t forget to test your thumbnails and see how they perform with your audience. Sometimes what we think looks great may not resonate with viewers. Use tools like Xero or Adobe Photoshop to create multiple versions of your thumbnail and see which one gets the most clicks and engagement. A/B testing can provide valuable insights into what types of thumbnails work best for your content.
So, whether you’re a YouTuber, a Skillshare creator, or a professional video maker on Vimeo, take the time to craft stunning and eye-catching thumbnails that will grab your viewers’ attention. With a little thought and creativity, you can create thumbnails that will make your content impossible to resist.
Video Thumbnail Guide
Creating eye-catching and engaging video thumbnails is a skillshare that every video producer should test. A well-designed thumbnail can entice viewers to click and watch your content, while a dull or poorly designed thumbnail can turn them away.
When designing your video thumbnails, there are several versions you can use. Whether you’re using YouTube, Vimeo, or any other video platform, it’s important to consider the background, theme, and title of your video when creating thumbnails.
Here are some tips and examples to help you make stunning and engaging thumbnails:
- Use vibrant colors: Colors can attract the audience’s eye and make your thumbnail stand out. Thoughtful use of color can help convey the message and theme of your video.
- Create contrast: High contrast between foreground and background can make your thumbnail more dramatic and eye-catching. Experiment with different color combinations to find the most engaging contrast.
- Add text: Including a title or a short message on your thumbnail can give viewers a glimpse into the content of your video. Use clear and bold fonts that are easy to read.
- Include images: Adding relevant images to your thumbnail can make it more appealing and help viewers understand what your video is about at a glance. Make sure the images are high-quality and properly represent the content.
- Avoid clickbait: While it may be tempting to use clickbait-style thumbnails to attract more clicks, it’s important to be honest and accurate. Misleading thumbnails can result in negative feedback from viewers.
- Keep it simple: Sometimes, a clean and simple design can be more effective than a cluttered one. Make sure your thumbnail focuses on the main message and avoids unnecessary distractions.
Here are a few tools you can use to create your own engaging thumbnails:
- Xero: A simple and user-friendly thumbnail creator with various templates and customization options.
- Adobe Photoshop: A powerful tool for creating stunning and professional-looking thumbnails with advanced editing features.
- Canva: An online graphic design platform that offers pre-made templates and easy customization for creating eye-catching thumbnails.
- GIMP: A free and open-source image editor that provides a wide range of tools and features for designing thumbnails.
Remember, the goal of a video thumbnail is to grab the viewers’ attention and entice them to click and watch. By following these tips and using the right tools, you can create captivating thumbnails that drive more clicks and views to your videos.
Create stunning thumbnails
When it comes to creating video content on platforms like YouTube or Vimeo, you can’t underestimate the power of a captivating thumbnail. Thumbnails are the first thing viewers see when deciding whether to click and watch your video, so it’s important to make them engaging and eye-catching.
Designing a thumbnail doesn’t have to be a daunting task, even if you don’t have extensive design skills. There are plenty of tools and resources available that can help you create stunning thumbnails that will attract viewers to click on your video.
Here are a few tips to help you make eye-catching thumbnails:
- Use contrasting colors: Choose colors that make your thumbnail stand out from the background. This will make your thumbnail more visually appealing and easier to notice.
- Keep it simple: Avoid overcrowding your thumbnail with too much text or images. Instead, focus on one main message or image that represents your video’s content.
- Builds curiosity: Use thought-provoking images or titles that make your audience curious and want to watch your video to find out more.
- Follow the 6-second rule: Capture the attention of your viewers within the first 6 seconds with a thumbnail that accurately represents your video’s content.
- Avoid clickbait: While it can be tempting to create clickbait thumbnails to get more views, it’s important to be honest and genuine with your audience. Use thumbnails that accurately depict the content within your videos.
- Test it out: Experiment with different thumbnail designs to see which ones generate more clicks and engagement. You can use tools like Xero or Rei to analyze the performance of your thumbnails.
Here are a few examples of eye-catching thumbnails:
- A dramatic background with bold text.
- An imaginary scene that captures the essence of your video.
- A thumbnail that features a comedian or creator that represents the comedic tone of the video.
- A thumbnail with a simple message that resonates with your audience.
Remember, the goal of a thumbnail is to attract viewers and entice them to click and watch your video. Whether you’re creating content for YouTube, Vimeo, or any other platform, make sure your thumbnails are engaging, thoughtful, and true to your content’s soul.
By following these tips and using the right tools, you can create stunning thumbnails that will help your videos stand out and attract more viewers.
Tips for YouTube thumbnail design
When it comes to creating an eye-catching YouTube thumbnail, there are a few tips and tricks that can help you engage your audience and increase clicks. Here are 6 tips for designing stunning thumbnails:
| 1. Use thoughtful imagery | Incorporate relevant and captivating images into your thumbnail design. This will give viewers an idea of what your video is about and entice them to click. |
| 2. Create a compelling title | Your thumbnail should have a clear and concise title that accurately represents the content of your video. Avoid using clickbait titles that mislead viewers. |
| 3. Test different thumbnails | Don’t be afraid to experiment with different thumbnail designs and see which ones resonate best with your audience. Use tools like YouTube Creator Studio or Vimeo to test and analyze the performance of your thumbnails. |
| 4. Consider the background | Ensure that the background of your thumbnail complements the theme of your video. A simple and uncluttered background can sometimes be more effective in grabbing viewers’ attention. |
| 5. Use color and contrast | Make your thumbnail visually appealing by using vibrant colors and high contrast. This will make it stand out among other thumbnails in search results and related videos. |
| 6. Keep it engaging but avoid clutter | While it’s important to make your thumbnail visually appealing, avoid overcrowding it with too much text or images. Maintain a balance between showcasing the content and leaving room for curiosity. |
By following these tips, you can create stunning YouTube thumbnails that capture the soul of your video content without resorting to clickbait. Remember, an engaging thumbnail builds anticipation and encourages viewers to click and watch your videos.
Use your own images
If you want to make an eye-catching and engaging video thumbnail, using your own images is a great way to do it. By incorporating your own images, you can add a personal touch and make your thumbnail stand out from the rest.
When choosing images, think about the color, background, and contrast. It’s important to use images that are relevant to your video content and convey the message you want to send to your viewers. Whether it’s a stunning landscape, a dramatic close-up, or a simple yet fabulous design, your image should capture the essence of your video.
Here are a few tips to guide you in using your own images to create captivating thumbnails:
1. Choose images that align with your video’s theme: Select images that are in line with the theme and content of your video. For example, if your video is about comedy, choose an image that reflects humor or laughter.
2. Think about the background: The background of your image can significantly impact its visual appeal. Consider using contrasting colors or a thoughtfully designed background to make your thumbnail more eye-catching.
3. Test different designs: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different designs and layouts. Create multiple thumbnail options and test them to see which one gets more clicks and engages your audience.
4. Avoid clickbait: While it’s important to make your thumbnail enticing, avoid using misleading or clickbait images. Your thumbnail should accurately represent the content of your video to build trust with your viewers.
5. Use tools and resources: There are various online tools and platforms like Canva, Adobe Spark, and Picmaker that provide templates and design elements to help you create stunning thumbnails without requiring advanced design skills.
6. Follow the 6-second rule: Remember that thumbnails should be visually appealing and convey your message quickly. According to studies, viewers decide whether to click on a video within the first 6 seconds of seeing the thumbnail, so make sure your image captures their attention instantly.
By using your own images, you can create memorable and engaging thumbnails for your videos on platforms like YouTube, Vimeo, or Skillshare. Your thumbnail is the first thing viewers see, so make sure it’s a compelling and thoughtful representation of what they can expect from your video.
Create simple designs
When it comes to creating video thumbnails, simple designs can often be the most effective. Here are some tips and examples for building your own eye-catching thumbnails that will make viewers want to click:
- Use contrasting colors to make your thumbnail stand out. Thoughtful use of color can help your video thumbnail catch the viewer’s eye.
- Avoid clickbait designs. Although it may be tempting to create thumbnails that get a lot of clicks, it’s important to make sure your design accurately represents the content of your video.
- Consider the theme of your video and build your thumbnail around it. Whether it’s a comedy skit, a dramatic scene, or a how-to guide, design your thumbnail to reflect the soul of your video.
- Incorporate your own images into the design. If you have footage or stills from your video, use them to create a thumbnail that will entice viewers to watch.
- Keep the design simple and engaging. Sometimes a few well-placed design elements can have a bigger impact than a cluttered or busy thumbnail.
- Test different versions of your thumbnail to see what works best. Try different layouts, colors, and fonts to find the thumbnail that gets the most clicks.
- Follow design principles. Consider composition, balance, and visual hierarchy when creating your thumbnail.
- Use tools like Adobe Photoshop, Canva, or even free online platforms like Fotor or Pixlr to create stunning thumbnails.
- Don’t underestimate the power of a good title. Pair your eye-catching design with a compelling title to increase clicks.
- Take a look at popular YouTube or Vimeo creators in your niche for inspiration. While you don’t want to copy their designs, you can get ideas for what works well in your industry.
Remember, your thumbnail is the first impression viewers will have of your video. Spend some time testing and refining your designs to create thumbnails that grab attention and make people want to watch your content.
Avoid clickbait
When creating video thumbnails, it can be tempting to use clickbait tactics to attract viewers. However, it is essential to avoid sensationalizing your thumbnails and instead focus on creating engaging and accurate representations of your video content. By following a few simple tips, you can make stunning thumbnails that capture the soul of your video and entice viewers without resorting to clickbait.
One of the first things to consider when designing your thumbnails is the background. Use contrasting colors or eye-catching images that align with the theme of your video. For example, if you’re creating comedy content, make sure the thumbnail reflects the humor in the video itself.
Another tip is to be thoughtful about the content and title of your thumbnail. Avoid using misleading or exaggerated language in both the visual and textual elements. Instead, create a thumbnail that accurately represents the content and message of your video.
There are several tools available that can help you test different thumbnail designs. Xero, Rei, and UCB are some examples of platforms where you can create and test various versions of your thumbnails to see which one performs best.
Although it can be tempting to use clickbait thumbnails to attract more clicks, your main goal should be to provide valuable and engaging content to your viewers. Make sure that the thumbnail you create aligns with the actual video and provides a fabulous and imaginary representation of what viewers can expect to watch.
Moreover, don’t forget about the audience you’re targeting. Understand what visuals and design elements appeal to them and incorporate those into your thumbnail creation process.
Lastly, when it comes to creating thumbnails for your videos, sometimes less is more. Keep your designs simple, clean, and impactful. Use a few high-quality images or screenshots from your video that encapsulate the essence of your content.
In conclusion, the key to avoiding clickbait thumbnails is to stay true to your content, be thoughtful in your design choices, and create thumbnails that accurately represent your video. With the right tools and techniques, you can make engaging and enticing thumbnails that attract clicks without resorting to misleading tactics.
Test a few versions
Once you’ve created your own thumbnail designs, it’s time to test a few versions to see which one gets the most clicks. Testing different designs can help you find the perfect combination of elements that attracts viewers and makes them want to click on your video.
There are a few tips you can follow to create engaging thumbnails that capture the soul of your video:
– Keep it simple: Use a clean and simple design that is easy to understand at a glance.
– Use contrasting colors: Make sure your thumbnail has enough contrast between the background and the text or images to make it stand out.
– Avoid clickbait: Although it’s tempting to create a dramatic or eye-catching thumbnail, make sure it accurately represents the content of your video. Misleading viewers will only create disappointment and loss of trust.
– Be thoughtful with your title: The title on your thumbnail should be short, catchy, and give viewers an idea of what they can expect from your video.
– Test different background designs: Sometimes a simple background works best, and other times a more elaborate design can be fabulous.
– Test different builds: Try different layouts and arrangements of the elements on your thumbnail to see which one has the most impact.
– Consider your audience: Whether you’re creating comedy videos or educational content, make sure your thumbnail appeals to your target audience.
– Watch other creators: Look for examples of stunning thumbnails on YouTube, Vimeo, or other platforms to get inspiration for your own designs.
– Use tools: There are various tools available online that can help you create and test different versions of your thumbnail, such as Canva, Adobe Spark, or Microsoft PowerPoint.
– Test on different devices: Make sure your thumbnail looks good on desktop, mobile, and other devices that your audience may use to watch your videos.
– Test without images: Although using images can be engaging, sometimes a clever use of colors, fonts, and text can make your thumbnail stand out even without images.
– Test with your audience: If you have a built-in audience, such as subscribers or followers on social media, ask for their feedback on different thumbnail versions.
– Use imaginary viewers: Imagine what a viewer who has never seen your content before would think when they see your thumbnail. Is the message clear and compelling?
By testing a few versions of your thumbnail and analyzing the results, you can optimize your design to increase clicks and attract more viewers to watch your video!
6 Fabulous thumbnail examples on Vimeo
When it comes to grabbing the attention of viewers, the design of your video thumbnail can make all the difference. A captivating thumbnail can entice people to click and watch your content, while a lackluster one might be easily overlooked.
Vimeo is a popular platform for creators to share their videos, and it offers a wide range of thumbnail options. Here are 6 fabulous thumbnail examples on Vimeo that showcase different designs and techniques:
1. Comedy Gold: The thumbnail for “UCB Comedy Originals” uses contrasting colors and a simple yet engaging image to catch the eye. This design is effective in creating an immediate sense of humor and fun.
2. Thoughtful Elegance: “SkillShare: A Guide to Typography” thumbnail uses a stunning background image paired with a simple, yet bold title. This design evokes a sense of sophistication and creativity.
3. GoPro Adventure: “GoPro: Into the Great Wide Open” thumbnail showcases a dramatic image that immediately captures the viewer’s attention. The use of vibrant colors adds to the excitement and thrill of the video.
4. Imaginary Worlds: “Xero: Stories from the Kepulauan” thumbnail uses a captivating image that transports viewers into an imaginary world. The use of colors and design elements create a sense of wonder and curiosity.
5. Engaging Message: “Rei: The Soul of a Runner” thumbnail uses a simple yet powerful message displayed prominently. The use of bold text and contrasting colors immediately conveys the theme and essence of the video.
6. Colorful Patterns: “Vimeo: A Few Tips on Making Thumbnails” thumbnail uses a variety of colorful patterns and shapes to create an eye-catching design. This draws attention and encourages viewers to click and watch.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned creator, these fabulous thumbnail examples on Vimeo provide inspiration and guidance for crafting your own engaging thumbnails. Remember to test different designs and use tools available to build a thumbnail that captures the essence of your video and attracts viewers without resorting to clickbait.
By investing time and skill into designing an enticing thumbnail, you can increase clicks and make your content stand out on Vimeo. So go ahead and create stunning thumbnails that will entice viewers to click and watch your videos!
SkillShare
If you’re a video creator looking to make stunning and engaging thumbnails for your videos, SkillShare is the perfect platform to enhance your skills. SkillShare offers a wide range of classes and tutorials that can help you transform your simple video thumbnails into eye-catching and dramatic designs.
Whether you use GoPro footage or create your own designs, SkillShare has a variety of classes that can help you make thumbnails that capture the attention of your audience. SkillShare provides step-by-step guides and examples that teach you how to use color, contrast, and thoughtful background choices to create thumbnails that tell a story and make viewers click.
With SkillShare, you can learn how to use tools like Xero and Adobe Photoshop to test different versions of your thumbnails and find the one that best represents your video’s content. The platform also offers guidance on how to avoid clickbait and create authentic and engaging thumbnails that align with your video’s message and title.
By following SkillShare’s tutorials and classes, you can learn how to build your own imaginative and compelling thumbnails without relying on stock images or generic designs. SkillShare shows you how to make thumbnails that stand out on platforms like YouTube and Vimeo, grabbing the attention of viewers and compelling them to click and watch your video.
Although comedy and dramatic images are sometimes used to create engaging thumbnails, SkillShare emphasizes the importance of staying true to your audience and your content. They provide examples and tips on how to create thumbnails that are both eye-catching and genuine, appealing to your specific target audience.
| UCB | The theme of your thumbnail should follow the overall theme of your video. SkillShare provides guidance on how to choose a theme that aligns with your video content and resonates with your audience. |
| 6 Examples of Stunning Thumbnails | SkillShare showcases six examples of thumbnails that are not only fabulous in design but also successfully grab the attention of viewers with their engaging visuals and compelling color choices. |
| The Power of Contrast | SkillShare teaches you how to use contrast effectively in your thumbnails to make them visually appealing and captivating. |
| Design for Clicks | SkillShare provides a guide on how to design your thumbnails in a way that maximizes the number of clicks and views your videos receive, keeping your viewers engaged and eager for more. |
| The Soul of a Thumbnail | SkillShare explores the importance of injecting your own personality and creativity into your thumbnails, making them stand out and resonate with your audience. |
With SkillShare, you can take your video thumbnails to the next level and make them truly captivating and impactful. Explore their classes and tutorials today to unlock the potential of your video thumbnails.
UCB Comedy
UCB Comedy is a fabulous source of comedy videos on YouTube. Whether you’re a creator or just a viewer, it’s important to make sure your video thumbnail is eye-catching and engaging, so that viewers are more likely to click and watch. In this guide, we’ll provide you with some tips and examples to help you create stunning thumbnails for your UCB Comedy videos.
1. Use color and contrast: Color can be a powerful tool in creating eye-catching thumbnails. Use bold and vibrant colors that grab the audience’s attention, and create contrast between different elements in the design. For example, you can use a bright background color with contrasting text and images.
2. Keep it simple: Sometimes a simple design is more effective than a cluttered one. Avoid using too many elements or text in your thumbnail, as it can make it look messy and confusing. Instead, focus on a single message or theme that represents the content of your video.
3. Be creative with your images: Use high-quality and engaging images that convey the theme or concept of your video. You can use stock photos or create your own visuals using tools like Canva or Adobe Spark. Make sure the images you choose are relevant to the video and capture the essence of the UCB Comedy brand.
4. Test different versions: Don’t be afraid to test different thumbnail designs to see what works best for your audience. Create multiple versions of your thumbnail and track their performance to see which one generates more views and engagement. You can use YouTube’s analytics or tools like TubeBuddy or VidIQ to measure the effectiveness of your thumbnails.
5. Avoid clickbait: Although it can be tempting to use clickbait tactics in your thumbnail, it’s important to be honest and thoughtful with your design. Misleading or exaggerated thumbnails can lead to disappointment and loss of trust from your audience. Make sure your thumbnail accurately represents the content of your video.
6. Use engaging text: Add engaging and descriptive text to your thumbnail to give viewers a preview of what they can expect from your video. Use short and catchy phrases that spark curiosity and make people want to click. You can use tools like Skillshare or Canva to add text to your images.
Remember, when it comes to creating an eye-catching and engaging thumbnail for your UCB Comedy videos, it’s all about capturing the soul of your content and enticing viewers to click. So, follow these tips and make sure your thumbnails stand out from the crowd!
GoPro
GoPro is a popular brand for action cameras that allows users to capture a wide range of thrilling and sometimes dramatic videos. When it comes to creating video thumbnails for GoPro videos, it’s important to design engaging and eye-catching thumbnails that entice viewers to click and watch your content.
There are several tools and design skills you can use to create compelling thumbnails for your GoPro videos. One great resource for learning design tips and tricks is Skillshare, where you can find tutorials on creating stunning thumbnail designs. It’s important to consider your audience and the message you want to convey through your thumbnail design.
To create an eye-catching thumbnail for your GoPro video, consider using bold and vibrant colors in contrast with the background. This will help your thumbnail stand out and grab the viewer’s attention. You can also incorporate imagery that represents the theme of your video, whether it’s a scenic view or an action-packed moment.
When designing your thumbnail, avoid using clickbait designs that may mislead viewers. Instead, opt for a thoughtful and authentic thumbnail that accurately represents the content of your video. You can also include a captivating title or a short message that builds curiosity and encourages viewers to click and watch.
GoPro creators often use their own videos or images taken with their GoPro cameras to create compelling thumbnails. Whether you’re showcasing a stunning landscape or a funny moment, using real footage can help give your thumbnail an authentic and enticing touch.
To make your GoPro video thumbnail even more engaging, consider adding a few versions of the thumbnails to test which one performs better. You can also follow the lead of popular GoPro content creators on platforms like YouTube and Vimeo to get inspiration and see what types of thumbnails resonate with their audience.
One example is REI, which creates captivating thumbnails that showcase the adventures that await viewers in their videos. They often use striking images that evoke a sense of wanderlust and combine them with bold and contrasting fonts to create an eye-catching thumbnail.
In summary, creating an engaging video thumbnail for your GoPro videos requires thoughtfulness, skill, and an understanding of your audience. By using the right tools and design techniques, you can create compelling and click-worthy thumbnails that entice viewers to watch your fabulous GoPro content.
REI
When it comes to creating eye-catching thumbnails for your YouTube videos, REI proves that sometimes less is more. Their designs often feature a simple background, with a stunning image that builds curiosity and engages viewers. Whether it’s a dramatic mountain view or a soul-stirring shot of a hiker in action, REI’s thumbnails are designed to make you click.
One of the tips they use to create engaging thumbnails is to make sure there is a strong contrast between the background and the main image. This contrast not only catches the eye but also helps to highlight the message and theme of the video. By using bold and vibrant colors, REI’s thumbnails stand out in a sea of content and entice viewers to click.
Another tip is to incorporate the title of the video into the thumbnail design. This helps viewers quickly understand what the video is about and encourages them to watch. REI often uses a playful and creative font to add personality to their thumbnails, whether it’s for a guide on hiking skills or a funny video about their imaginary adventures.
Although they are a big brand, REI knows the importance of thoughtful and engaging thumbnail designs. They understand that YouTube is a crowded platform, and getting viewers to click on your video is a skill in itself. By following these tips, you can create your own stunning thumbnails that will stand out and entice viewers to click.
If you’re not confident in your design skills, don’t worry! There are plenty of tools and resources available to help you make fabulous thumbnails. Websites like Canva, PicMonkey, and Xero offer user-friendly platforms where you can easily create eye-catching designs without any background in graphic design.
When it comes to the content of your thumbnails, it’s important to think about what will grab the audience’s attention. Whether you’re creating a thumbnail for a dramatic GoPro adventure or a comedic UCB performance, make sure the image and title accurately represent the video’s content. Avoid using clickbait or misleading thumbnails that don’t deliver on the promised message.
Finally, test different versions of your thumbnails to see what resonates with your audience. Whether you’re uploading videos on YouTube, Vimeo, or any other platform, consider creating a few different thumbnail options and track which ones get the most clicks. This will help you refine your thumbnail design and attract more viewers to your videos.
Make It Soul
1. Use engaging imagery: Choose images that are visually stunning and capture the essence of your video. Whether it’s a dramatic shot of a GoPro adventure or a colorful background that builds contrast, make sure the thumbnail represents the soul of your content.
2. Craft a compelling title: The title on your thumbnail should be short, catchy, and packed with your video’s main message. Avoid clickbait and be honest about what viewers can expect from your video.
3. Test different designs: Use a variety of thumbnail designs to see what works best for your audience. Experiment with different layouts, colors, and font styles to find the winning combination.
4. Follow the theme of your videos: Create a consistent theme across your video thumbnails to build a recognizable brand. Whether it’s using similar colors, fonts, or imagery, make sure your thumbnails align with the overall look and feel of your content.
5. Avoid using clickbait: While it’s tempting to create eye-catching thumbnails that promise outrageous content, it’s important to stay true to your message and avoid clickbait. Be authentic and provide value to your audience.
6. Make it soulful: Instead of just focusing on getting clicks, make sure your thumbnail represents the soul of your content. Whether it’s a comedy sketch, an instructional video, or a heartfelt story, let your thumbnail reflect the heart and soul of your video.
Although creating eye-catching video thumbnails takes time and skill, it’s worth the effort. Build a fabulous thumbnail that grabs attention, engages viewers, and entices them to click and watch your own soulful creations.
Sources: GoPro, UCB Comedy, REI, Xero, Skillshare
Note: Don’t use these examples without permission from the respective sources.
So go ahead and make it soul! Create captivating thumbnails that represent the essence of your video content and watch your audience grow.
Xero
Creating eye-catching video thumbnails is an essential skill for any content creator, whether you make videos for YouTube, Vimeo, or other platforms. Thumbnails are the first thing viewers see, and they play a crucial role in getting people to click and watch your content.
Xero, a fabulous tool that builds stunning designs with just a few clicks, is perfect for creating engaging thumbnails. It offers a simple and user-friendly interface that allows you to customize your thumbnails according to your own style and message.
Here are some tips and examples to help you make amazing video thumbnails with Xero:
- Choose a theme: Decide on the theme that best represents your video content. Whether it’s comedy, drama, or any other genre, make sure your thumbnail reflects the overall message of your video.
- Use contrasting colors: Utilize contrasting colors that make your thumbnail stand out. Bold and vibrant colors can capture viewers’ attention and make them more likely to click.
- Keep it simple: Avoid cluttering your thumbnail with too many images or text. A clean and simple design is often more effective in attracting viewers.
- Create a compelling title: Incorporate a catchy and descriptive title into your thumbnail that entices viewers to click and watch.
- Include images or drawings: Add relevant images or even imaginary drawings that represent the main content of your video. This will give viewers a preview of what they can expect.
- Test and follow the data: Although there are general tips and best practices for thumbnails, it’s important to test different designs and see what resonates with your audience. Analyze the data and make adjustments accordingly.
With Xero, you don’t need to be a design expert to create stunning thumbnails for your videos. It offers a range of tools and features that make the process simple and enjoyable. So, unleash your creativity and start making eye-catching thumbnails that will attract more viewers to your content!
Here are a few sources where you can find inspiration and learn more about creating engaging video thumbnails:
- UCB Comedy on YouTube: They have some great examples of thumbnails with clever designs that catch the eye.
- Fabulous thumbnails on Vimeo: Explore their collection of unique and artistic thumbnails for inspiration.
- REI on Skillshare: They offer a course on creating stunning video thumbnails from start to finish.
- GoPro’s YouTube channel: They have mastered the art of dramatic thumbnails that make you want to click and watch.
Sources
There are several sources you can use to create stunning video thumbnails with just a few clicks. These sources provide a range of options and features for designing eye-catching and engaging thumbnails that resonate with your audience.
1. YouTube and Vimeo: These popular video platforms both offer built-in tools for creating thumbnails. You can choose from a variety of pre-designed templates or create your own custom designs. These platforms also provide guidelines and tips to help you avoid common mistakes and create effective thumbnails.
2. Online Design Tools: There are many online design tools available that allow you to create your own thumbnails without any design skill. Canva, Adobe Spark, and PicMonkey are a few examples of popular design tools that offer a range of templates, backgrounds, images, and text options to help you create visually appealing thumbnails.
3. Imaginary Soul: Imaginary Soul is a YouTube channel and content creator that specializes in creating stunning video thumbnails. They provide a step-by-step guide on how to create captivating thumbnails using various design techniques and tools, along with examples of their own thumbnails for inspiration.
4. UC Berkeley Extension: UC Berkeley offers a video tutorial on creating thumbnails for your YouTube videos. This tutorial covers the basics of thumbnail design, including color theory, contrast, and composition. It also provides tips on how to make your thumbnails more engaging and appealing to viewers.
5. GoPro: GoPro, a well-known action camera brand, offers a video tutorial on creating eye-catching thumbnails for your GoPro videos. The tutorial focuses on using their online editing tool, GoPro Studio, to design captivating thumbnails that highlight the excitement and unique perspective of GoPro footage.
6. Skillshare: Skillshare is an online learning community that offers a variety of courses on different subjects. They have courses specifically dedicated to creating video thumbnails, where you can learn from professional designers and gain valuable insights into the thought processes and techniques behind creating engaging thumbnails.
Remember, whether you choose to use a tool or follow a guide, the key is to create thumbnails that are visually appealing, convey a clear message, and grab the viewer’s attention. Don’t be afraid to test different designs and styles, and remember to avoid clickbait tactics that may mislead your audience. With these sources and tips, you’ll be able to create fabulous thumbnails for your videos that entice viewers to click and watch.
