Have you spent time and effort producing a great video? Then it is crucial that people actually click on it and watch it. And this is where thumbnails play a huge role. A thumbnail is the small cover image that represents your video – and it can be the difference between your video being watched or overlooked.
It is often the viewer's first impression. In a few seconds, the image has to spark curiosity, say something about the content and create the urge to click. That is why the thumbnail is one of the most important factors when it comes to getting more views on your videos.
A good thumbnail starts with a strong image. Choose a frame from the video that clearly shows what the content is about – a moment that captures the essence of the story, or a subject that sparks curiosity. An image where something is happening, or where a facial expression says more than words, often has far greater impact than a neutral still.
When choosing your image, consider how it looks at a small size. Many people watch videos on their phones, where thumbnails are displayed in small sizes. That means the image needs to be clear even on a small screen.
Clear, vivid colors make a big difference. They make your thumbnail stand out in a feed full of content and make it more clickable. Colors with good contrast and energy attract the eye – especially on dark backgrounds, which many platforms use today.
The text on the thumbnail should be short, precise and easy to read. Use a few words that hit the main message, and write in large, clear letters. It could be a question, a keyword or a short sentence that sparks curiosity. Remember, the text should only support the image – not explain it.
You do not need to be a graphic designer to create attractive and effective thumbnails. There are many user-friendly tools that make the process quick and easy.
Want to take it a step further? Use a short video clip as your thumbnail. Instead of a still, the viewer gets a small animated teaser showing the mood or a highlight from the video. It is a format many major media outlets use today because it grabs attention extremely effectively – especially on front pages and in articles.
It is actually quite simple to do: choose a short clip, convert it to WebP format, and upload it as a thumbnail. In a few seconds you have a dynamic, living cover that makes people stop and click.
Whether you choose a still or a short video clip, it is about presenting your video in the best possible way. A good thumbnail can be the difference between a video that gets overlooked and a video that gets watched, shared and remembered.
It does not take much time, but it can have an enormous impact on your results. So next time you upload a video – spend a few extra minutes on your thumbnail. It pays off.
At STEP Network we help companies get the most out of their video content – from idea and production to publishing and performance. We can advise on how to make your videos perform better, including how thumbnails, text and placement affect viewer behavior and click-through rate.
Want help creating thumbnails that resonate with your audience and strengthen your brand identity? Then contact our video editor Rune at rubso@stepnetwork.dk, and together we will find the solution that makes your videos stand out.
Let us help you get the most out of your display campaigns.
