Custom Thumbnails Help increase Video Views
Custom thumbnail using a Canva template
You may have heard the phrase, “you never get a second chance to make a first impression. A video thumbnail is your viewer’s first impression of your video. A great video thumbnail can mean the difference between thousands of views and just a few. But how do you know what makes a good thumbnail and how do you create one?
A thumbnail is a small, clickable graphic that video platforms such as YouTube use to represent your video. The user's attention is captured to your video the first time they notice your thumbnail, so it's always necessary to have an attractive thumbnail that can catch the viewer's attention; otherwise, your video won't be able to stand out quickly.
Why is it necessary to use unique thumbnails?
When it comes to a viewers’ finding and deciding to watch your video, a stunning unique video thumbnail can make a huge difference.
It's a simple technique to make your video look more professional and hence, attract more viewers. Attractive and inviting graphics and a captivating thumbnail compel the visitor to view the video.
And, on the other hand, if a video thumbnail isn't very appealing, nor is it conveying any message through its headlines, then there are fewer chances that people will get attracted toward it and watch the video.
Video thumbnails hold as much importance as the video itself. So, if you are new to video creation and want to increase your video views but are still doubtful about thumbnails, experiment with them and make sure to track them to see how much of an increase you can realize.
The 3 Fundamental Principles
The purpose of thumbnails is to engage your audience and to bring in new viewers so that they'll view your content and hopefully respond to the call to actions that you are hoping to achieve. We've identified three key concepts that will allow you to reach this objective:
1. Your thumbnails should appropriately represent the video's content.
2. Your thumbnails should arouse your audience's interest in the video.
3. Your thumbnails should be easy to read and understand so that the viewers get an idea of what is in the video and be persuaded watch it.
How to Create Thumbnails that increase Video Views
The significance of thumbnails is often underestimated. Not everyone is aware that effective video thumbnails can catch the attention of potential viewers.
If you believe your video thumbnail production skills could be improved, here are a few recommendations
The significance of thumbnails is often underestimated. Not everyone is aware that effective video thumbnails can catch the attention of potential viewers.
If you believe your video thumbnail production skills could be improved, here are a few recommendations
1. Display powerful emotions
It is simple to identify strong emotions which gives the viewer a sense of empathy for those experiencing it. A viewer is more likely to click on your video if they feel emotionally attached to something or if they wish to experience that emotion for themselves.
2. Use bright backgrounds
Bright backgrounds distinguish themselves against the usual backdrop of white on YouTube and other video platforms. To make sure to keep the viewer's eyes on your thumbnails, you should frequently use the sunburst or pinwheel effect. This causes the viewers to immediately follow the motion of the sunburst or pinwheel, ultimately directing their eyes to the vanishing point where your video is. This again draws the viewer's attention to the subject, making the topic even more popular.
3. Use contrasts and outline your work.
Contrast and outlines allow the video subject to distinguish itself from the background. Additionally, they add depth of field to the thumbnail's subject, making it stand out even more.
4. The proper use of text
A best practice that you should follow is to use a minimal number of words, which will make the text stand out with strong contours or colors from the background.
5. Choose readable fonts
Appearance is quite essential, but another important factor is readability. If viewers can understand your copy with a quick glance, you will undoubtedly have better success. Small video thumbnails mean you don't have much real estate to work with so it’s essential that your copy that encourages viewers to click.
Decorate your thumbnail
You can basically include anything you want in your thumbnail. Browse the “Elements” on Google or any other search engine to discover various geometric and visual designs. Alternatively, you can use your own creative assets and include them in your design. Add emoji and other small components to your thumbnails images to make them look even more attractive.
However, don't detract from the picture or text by over doing it. You must find the balance between adding essential elements and not overloading your thumbnail with too many elements.
How to add a custom thumbnail to your YouTube video.
To add a custom thumbnail to YouTube video, follow the given steps:
· Go to YouTube Studio and click on “Menu”
· Select the “Video” option from there
· Select the video you want to edit and add thumbnail to.
· Click on “Edit Thumbnail”
· Select the customized thumbnail from your device
· Click on “Save”
Some additional resources for creating custom thumbnails
1. Watch a tutorial video on YouTube that details each step for exactly how to make a custom thumbnail for YouTube videos. https://youtu.be/Sp3dFF-Bts0
2. Check out Crello (https://crello.com/create/) which helps you create stunning thumbnails with a large selection of top quality templates
3. With Canva (https://www.canva.com/create/youtube-thumbnails/) you can enrich your chosen snapshot with text and design elements, or create a clean cut thumbnail design for a synchronized playlist or channel. With Canva’s tools and easy-to-navigate interface, you can easily customize your YouTube thumbnails to the tune of instant virality.
4. Hubspot offers a great guide to making a scroll-stopping YouTube thumbnail at: https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/youtube-thumbnail
Wrap-up
If you have an awesome video, you want as many of your target audience to view it as possible. Well designed custom thumbnails will help you to accomplish this. If you are looking for help to create your awesome videos, look no farther than VideoFresh. We are experts in creating video content that performs, helping to drive sales and conversions. Contact us today to discuss in more detail.
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