Why you really should create custom thumbnails for your video content

We’re told not to judge a book by it’s cover or a film by it’s poster… But let’s be honest, we’ve all done it. Which is why, if you really want to get serious about your video content creation, you need to invest an extra minute into customizing your DIY video’s thumbnail.

The Thumbnail… And Why It’s Important To Video Creation

You might be asking, what's a video thumbnail? And why should I care about it?

Good question. The thumbnail is that small preview image people see before they click on your video… And if you want them to click on it, you’ve got to make it enticing.

First impressions are important. With attention spans shorter than ever, and people consuming content like cotton candy, you shouldn’t settle for the randomly generated preview thumbnail that YouTube, Facebook, or Instagram suggests after your video uploads.

When media platforms choose your thumbnail, they aren’t making a strategic choice. It’s completely random. And if your video is mostly of you talking, chances are you're gonna end up with this really weird freeze frame.

That picture of you mid-blink with your mouth hanging partially open isn’t exactly your best look, let alone one that establishes you as a video marketing professional in your audience’s mind. On the other hand, when you’re intentional with that thumbnail image, you can inspire curiosity as well as give them a sneak peak of what’s in store.

Seeking inspiration for better thumbnails? I’ve got you covered.

Techniques for Better Video Thumbnails

When you choose your own video thumbnail rather than the one randomly selected by YouTube, you get the chance to put your best foot forward. So tell your prospective viewer as much as possible, pique their curiosity, or evoke some sort of emotion.

There's a few ways you can go about doing this.

If your video is about a dog rescue nonprofit, you might want a screencap of a cute rescue pup rather than, say, the director of the organization. Fuzzy little Fido will tug on your viewer’s heartstrings. 

If it's a product video, you should pick an eye-catching image of your product. You might also opt for a sweet action shot of someone using it.

However, if your product is more an idea rather than an object—think services, education, or coaching—you want to craft an intentional thumbnail. Choose a shot of you with a big smile or another attractive pose. Your face is the brand, so make it count.

If you have a series of videos that all look really similar, I suggest adding graphic or text overlays to distinguish one from the next. There are some helpful (and free!) video thumbnail makers out there with online templates to assist with this process.

Uploading a Custom Thumbnail

Next, you might be asking, how do I upload a custom thumbnail? The technical side of creating video thumbnails is really simple, and it's pretty similar across all platforms.

Once your video is uploaded, you should see the randomly selected photo in the thumbnail category. In the same area, there should be a menu option to customize.

This will allow you to either pick a different freeze frame from your video or upload your own. If you have the time, I strongly suggest uploading your own because you'll have the opportunity to brand it. Most of the time, the quality of the image is far superior to the random freeze frame.

Another thing you should keep in mind is that some platforms only allow you to customize your thumbnail when you're uploading video content, and not after it's been published. Though Tiktok and Facebook allow you to change the thumbnail after posting, Instagram won’t!

A Final Note on Video Thumbnails

I hope this post encourages you. Choosing a good thumbnail for your video content doesn’t have to be an overwhelming or time consuming process. A little effort goes a long way. You’ve got this.

If you like what you’ve heard and you want to learn more about how to create video for Instagram, Facebook, Youtube, or TikTok then don't leave without signing up for my * newsletter * to gain more "quickie" video tips, course content and exclusive video coaching offers that will give you the confidence to do it on camera.