A thumbnail is a crucial element of video content, as it can capture the viewer's attention and influence their decision on choosing a video to watch.

Thumbnails are attracting viewers

• Visual Appeal: Showcase key elements of the video visually.

• Text and Font: Headlines should be easily readable, even in a small size. They can use short, expressive phrases to spark curiosity.

• Emphasis on Emotions: Evoke emotions in viewers, encouraging them to click on the video. This can be achieved through facial expressions, vibrant colors, or headlines.

• Content Relevance: Thumbnails should align with the essence of the video to avoid disappointing viewers.

Let's go over the instructions for using colors for the background and text in more detail

Make a contrast between the Background and Text

• Light background and dark text: If your thumbnail has a light-colored or bright background, choose a dark color for the text. This ensures clear visibility of the text against the background, creating excellent contrast.

• Dark background and light text: The opposite rule works too - on a dark background, use a light color for the text.

Use Saturated Colors for Text

• Use vibrant colors for text as they attract attention and provide clarity. For instance, saturated red or deep blue can help the text stand out in the background.

• Avoid using overly pale or dark shades, as they may lose visibility against the background.

See the difference:

Use Font and Text Size

• Choose a font that is easy to read, even in a small size. Simple fonts without unnecessary details can be effective.

• Increase the text size if needed to ensure visibility, especially on smaller screens.

See the difference:

Main heroes must look into the camera

When your hero looks into the camera it creates an emotional connection with the viewer and makes better CTRs

Use Clarity and Readability of Font

Choosing an Easy-to-Read Font:

• Pick a font that is easy to read, even on different background colors.

• Choose a font that stands out on the background. The contrast between the text and background is important for clarity.
  

• Determining Font Size for Readability:

• Remember that thumbnails are usually displayed in a smaller size. Select a font size that remains readable when scaled down.

• Experiment with different font sizes to see which looks best and ensures readability.

Branding

Brand Recognition through Thumbnails

• Making the brand easily recognizable through thumbnails.

• Using the logo or corporate colors.

• Including elements that spark interest  (icons, arrows, etc).

Imagine a screen in front of you - and on it are 20 different videos, and a person chooses a specific video how? Thanks to the thumbnail, especially if the thumbnail conveys certain emotions, that's why it's important to always pay attention - how your character is shown in the thumbnail and especially what text, where this text is placed, what color - the visual component - all for this little picture 🖱️ 🖼️