Why You Need To Optimize Your Video Thumbnails

If you have a video marketing strategy, then you need to do everything in your power to optimize your videos and campaigns. A lot of business owners who create videos end up overlooking the importance of your video thumbnail. Your video thumbnail essentially sells your your video, so people will watch it.

A lot of videos simply use the thumbnail that the video service chooses automatically. Sometimes, you can get lucky and they will be compelling, but often you’re left with a thumbnail that leaves you wanting. Below we’re going to dive into the importance of a video thumbnail as well as a few tips to design the perfect one for your needs.

Why Is A Video Thumbnail Important?

A video thumbnail, coupled with your headline, needs to be compelling enough for a user to have enough incentive to click on your video. Not only does it need to be compelling, but it needs to be informative and give a glimpse into what your video is about.

Boring or confusing thumbnails will cause your users to simply pass over your video and watch something else instead. It’s also important to keep in mind that your thumbnail will be viewed across multiple devices, so it needs to be legible even on smaller screens.

How To Design The Perfect Thumbnail

Designing the perfect thumbnail doesn’t have to be difficult. By following the steps below you’ll be able to create a thumbnail that really encourages your users to click.

1. Choose An Image That Conveys Emotion

As humans we’re naturally drawn to strong and powerful emotions. If you can convey anger, or passion, with your thumbnail your viewers will be more likely to click. They’ll have to watch your video to find out what all the excitement is all about.

2. Use A Sensical Image

That being said, your image needs to make sense. If your image doesn’t relate to your video at all you’ll only confuse your visitors. Try to make it exciting and compelling, while still being in line with the message of your video.

For instance, if you have a product tutorial video the image needs to have something to do with your product. Often there’s a lot more leeway with the video thumbnail when the video is more technical in nature.

3. Include Simple, Yet Compelling Text

You can overlay text on your thumbnails, which will act as a teaser of what’s to come. You can use these in accordance with your current headline. Just make sure the text is simple, descriptive and readable. It needs to be readable no matter the screen size.

Video marketing, if done effectively, can be a great tool to increase your online reach and generate new customers. If you’re interested in a professional video marketing strategy, then get in touch with our team today.