YouTube thumbnail images are essentially small graphics used on the platform to attract users’ attention, represent the videos and get more people to watch them.
According to Google, the recommended YouTube thumbnail size is 1280 X 720 pixels, with a minimum width of 640 pixels and a 16:9 aspect ratio. While YouTube picks out still frames from the video by default, brands can also upload custom thumbnails – a large image that would not look pixilated when used as the preview image in the embedded player.
Using a custom image for a thumbnail picture can help brands add their logo as well as text to their visual. Brands can also add an attention-grabbing title to their image. But, brands must also make sure that their thumbnail images accurately represent the video content and do not mislead viewers.
Brands should also ensure that thumbnail texts are short and easy to read, to facilitate quick reading. Marketers can also use contrasting and vibrant colours in their thumbnail images to stand out among other videos.
[12 minute read]
