By 
Video ads are now the dominant form of advertising, influencing consumer decisions in all corners of the Internet, from social media such as TikTok and Instagram to streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Facebook.
The thumbnail is often the most critical element of a video advertisement that catches the eye and attention of viewers.
When done right, the bite-sized preview will give consumers a sneak peek at your video content and encourage them to click through and watch your entire ad.
A click-inducing thumbnail is an integral part of a digital marketing strategy. We will explain everything you need about video thumbnails and why they are an essential digital marketing tool. Continue reading to find out more.
What are video thumbnails
You will see video thumbnails everywhere you look online. These are the reduced images that you can see on apps and websites. They show a small part of a video advertisement. These images are designed to encourage viewers to interact with your advertising.
They are: The three forms are:
Static Image
GIF Animation
Video
Video thumbnails have become a common feature of today’s online world. Video thumbnails are popular for people searching social networks for business tips. These thumbnails are meant to catch viewers’ eye and convince them your video is worth clicking.
Video thumbnails can be compared to movie trailers. Movie trailers are designed to give just enough information to get your attention and to take you to the cinema. A good thumbnail will also entice the viewer and increase engagement.
Why are video thumbnails important
Video ads are becoming increasingly popular in digital marketing. This is why creating a video thumbnail that will engage viewers is essential.
Since a few recent years, the Internet has been moving more towards video. Online videos are expected to account for 82% of Internet traffic by 2022, as more consumers choose the medium over other media for entertainment, news, and information. Video ads are also among the top digital marketing strategies.
Short-form video platforms such as TikTok have taken the world by storm. They are forcing other web services, including Facebook, to develop tools for users to engage and create videos. Most social media platforms now feature user-generated and professional short-form videos.
TikTok
The rise of short-form entertainment could also indicate that consumers’ attention spans are getting shorter. You only have about 15 seconds to convince your audience of your message. This means that you need to grab their attention immediately.
It’s all about the first impression when figuring out the hook rate. Your video thumbnail is your first chance to impress your audience. First impressions are as essential in digital marketing as in real life. You only get one. A carefully selected video thumbnail will help you to make the best of your first impression.
Social media accounts
Search results
On website sidebars
Main pages of websites
It’s not just theory. A study by Columbia Business School found that a perfect thumbnail can increase attention to your advertisement by 14%. 4
Tips for a Successful Video Thumbnail
It pays to be precise when there is so much power in a tiny thumbnail. Savvy marketers know that capturing content at the perfect moment is the key to success.
Here are six tips to help you create video thumbnails that will grab your attention and encourage clicks.
Say No to Automated Thumbnails
Many services or platforms that host your video advertisements will allow you to automate your thumbnail. This might seem like a good option for busy advertisers with much on their plate, but you shouldn’t rely solely on the platform.
You know where the actual value of your content is. Extra attention to detail can make a big difference in engagement on social media.
There is an exception to the rule: if a service claims to optimize performance by automating thumbnails, it’s worth a try.
It is essential to monitor your ad tracking method to ensure the thumbnails generate clicks.
Tell a story (in miniature)
Let’s return to the analogy we used earlier to compare video thumbnails with movie trailers. You wouldn’t just cut a few random clips together and call it good. You’d instead choose moments that convey the film’s tone, plot, and overall appeal.
This is also true for creating compelling video thumbnails. This means selecting the most eye-catching moments to include in your thumbnail. Consider the following:
Happy peak frame – Every advertisement has a moment that appeals to consumers the most. This moment is called the happy peak. The happy-peak frame is a powerful tool for video thumbnails. Studies have shown that it can influence whether consumers click on the ad or watch the entire video.
Images Matter – You can use the visual appeal of your ad to increase clicks. According to studies, thumbnail images that have a warm color scheme and are highly saturated can influence the consumer’s receptivity toward video thumbnails. 4
Avoid Branding- There’s an Attention-peak. The moment audiences are most engaged. This is the moment to brand. Use your thumbnail to draw attention and direct them to the site. 4
Choose Thumbnail Text Carefully
You should not use branding in the video thumbnails. However, you can add some text to give viewers a better idea of your advertising. Use it sparingly, and make sure to incorporate it smartly. You can gain more brand awareness by working with an agency.
You should not use more than six words in your thumbnail video. These six words need to be carefully chosen because they must:
Ad context is important
Spark emotional resonance
Grab the interest of consumers
A little digital face-to-face goes a long way
Faces are a great way to attract attention in crowded digital spaces.
There are other ways than using your face to convey the emotional tone in an ad. The proper facial expression can give the emotional appeal of an ad better than any words.
Comments