Adding a custom thumbnail to your uploaded videos can be a great way to make them stand out in search results and attract more clicks. With the right thumbnail, you can convey important information about the content before viewers even hit play. In this article, we’ll walk through the steps for adding custom thumbnails to videos you’ve already uploaded.
Why Add a Custom Thumbnail?
Most video platforms will automatically generate a thumbnail from a frame in the video. However, that frame may not always represent the content well. With a custom thumbnail, you can:
- Show an eye-catching image or graphic
- Include text overlays like the title
- Feature key people or items in the video
- Convey the tone or topic of the video
- Ensure high-quality, optimized images
- Stand out among other results
Great thumbnails can help catch viewers’ attention in crowded feeds and results. They also influence clickthrough rates. With custom thumbnails, you have full control over that first impression.
Thumbnail Specifications
Before creating your thumbnails, it’s important to check the requirements for the platform where you’ll be uploading them.
Key specifications include:
- File format – JPG or PNG are most commonly accepted
- Aspect ratio – This is typically 16:9 or 4:3
- Size – Minimum widths of 320px or 640px are common
- File size – Keep files under 2 MB
Following the proper thumbnail specs ensures your files will upload correctly in the video system. Creating custom thumbnails is less helpful if they get compressed, cropped, or resized after uploading.
Creating Your Thumbnails
You can create custom thumbnails using both image editing software and online thumbnail generators.
With image editing software
Programs like Photoshop or GIMP give you full control over the thumbnail design. You can:
- Insert graphics and text
- Apply filters and touch up images
- Adjust colors
- Crop or resize
Use a high-quality base image for best results. For example, choose an important frame from the video. Then enhance it by adding graphics, text, borders, etc.
With online tools
You can create simple but effective thumbnails without downloading software using online thumbnail generators. Many allow you to:
- Upload a base image
- Add text overlays
- Insert logos or graphics
- Apply filters like blur or saturation
Look for generators that output thumbnail files meeting your platform’s specifications. This method is quick but offers less customization.
Uploading Your Thumbnails
With your customized thumbnails in hand, it’s time to assign them to your videos. The specifics can vary between platforms.
YouTube
YouTube makes it easy to add or change thumbnails on uploaded videos:
- Go to YouTube Studio and find the video you want to edit
- Under the video title, click Edit
- Scroll down to Thumbnail and click Change
- Select Choose file to upload your custom thumbnail
- Click Done to save the new thumbnail
To add a custom thumbnail on Facebook:
- Go to the video post you want to edit
- Click the three dots in the upper right corner
- Select Edit Post > Edit Thumbnail
- Upload the new thumbnail file
- Click Save
Vimeo
Vimeo allows thumbnail changes in the video settings:
- Navigate to the video
- Click the Settings icon
- Scroll down to Thumbnail
- Click Change thumbnail > Upload file
- Choose the new custom thumbnail from your computer
Best Practices for Great Thumbnails
Follow these tips to create custom thumbnails that maximize views:
- Show faces – Images with people get more clicks
- Use bold text and graphics
- Convey emotions – Happy, surprised, etc.
- Include logos if appropriate
- Use bright, contrasting colors
- Optimize contrast and lighting
- Pick relevant, recognizable images
- Add text overlays sparingly
- Include subtle drop shadows
- Crop tightly on focus areas
While basic auto-generated thumbnails work, putting thought into custom designs pays off in increased traffic. Standing out is critical in crowded feeds.
Changing Thumbnails for Better Performance
Don’t be afraid to change your video’s thumbnail down the road if it’s not performing well. You may even want to test two different thumbnails to see which garners more views.
Look at key metrics like click-through rate and audience retention to choose which thumbnail resonates most with viewers. The best performers can vary across target audiences.
If your current thumbnail isn’t cutting it, try:
- Switching up the image or graphic
- Changing the text
- Adjusting colors
- Cropping from a different area
- Simplifying the overall design
Iterating based on real data can help optimize thumbnails over time.
Tools to Create Engaging Video Thumbnails
Here are some top tools for crafting great custom thumbnails:
Tool | Key Features |
---|---|
Canva | Intuitive editing, templates, stock media library |
Adobe Photoshop | Robust design capabilities for experienced users |
GIMP | Free, open-source advanced image editing |
SnapThumbnails | Creates thumbnails by entering a URL |
Pixlr | Browser-based editing, handy templates |
Conclusion
Adding great thumbnails to videos takes some extra effort, but can drastically improve viewership and audience retention. Use this guide to learn how to upload custom thumbnails to major video platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Vimeo.
With the right tools and compelling designs tailored to your content, you can make your videos stand out in any feed. Don’t underestimate the difference the right thumbnail can make.