How to Make an Enticing Thumbnail for Your Video

Spin Creative • September 22, 2022

Is your spectacular, well-crafted YouTube video not getting the attention—and the clicks—it deserves? 

Black lines repeating pattern with lightbulb

It could be because the thumbnail you’re using isn’t attracting the right audience, or any audience at all. 


You could make the best video ever, but without a great thumbnail, your target audience might not be enticed to watch it. Read on to learn how to create a great thumbnail for your videos.


What is a thumbnail?


First, you need to understand what a thumbnail is and how it affects the success of your videos. Thumbnails are compressed, preview images YouTube and other sites use as a placeholder for your video. It’s easiest to think of them as book covers—and while you’re not supposed to judge a book by its cover, you can bet your audience will judge your video by its thumbnail.


Thumbnails have a big impact on whether a person watches your video. Great thumbnails do two things at once: attracting the attention of your target audience and distinguishing your video from the rest. If more clicks, views and conversions is what you’re after, you need to make a dynamic thumbnail.


Choosing the right thumbnail


How do you choose the best thumbnail for your video? Think about the overall theme or message of your video and pick an image that reflects that. Keep in mind that the thumbnails that get the most attention often have people in the frame—and they’re even more dynamic if the person is up close and looking directly at the camera. Where’s the best place to find images like this?


·      Pulling frames: If you’re looking for a thumbnail that accurately represents the overall message of your video, it’s smart to pull frames right from the video. Remember to check your B-roll, since some footage that’s been edited out can work as a great thumbnail, too. Look through your video for an informative or exciting moment, grab the frame and make it your thumbnail.


·      Photos: It’s always helpful to take photos on set while you’re producing your video. They not only provide reference content for future work, but they can also be used as a thumbnail. Usually, these pictures are taken at more appropriate or specific angles, or at higher resolutions compared to pulling frames from the video. 


·      Illustration: When used appropriately, illustration can be highly effective as a thumbnail, especially if you’re making an animated video. Ask your animator to create a dynamic still illustration to use as the thumbnail.


·      Royalty-free images: While there are better options, some royalty-free images can be used to enrich a thumbnail. This option should only be used when you’ve exhausted all others, since royalty-free images aren’t unique to your brand. 


Still wondering how to pick the best thumbnail for your video? Say hello to Spin Creative. As a leading video marketing and branding agency, we’ll help you create a comprehensive video strategy that knows how to get your content seen by the people who need to see it the most. 



About Us

Spin Creative is a video production company and creative agency helping marketers create winning video and creative strategies that engage, inspire and activate targeted audiences. Spin is headquartered in Seattle with offices in San Francisco and London, serving brands around the globe. 

Purple colored abstract 3D objects with texture from the Microsoft 3D Copilot in Viva Sizzle Video

Designing a 3D Brand Universe for Microsoft Viva + Copilot

By Spin Creative • June 11, 2025
At Spin Creative, we believe the most effective product stories go beyond features—they tap into a clear, emotionally resonant narrative that connects with real people. That’s the lens we brought to our collaboration with Microsoft Viva, where our challenge was clear: create a high-impact video that visually captures how Copilot AI empowers people at work. The end result? A fully 3D-animated brand film designed to wow audiences at executive keynotes, tradeshows, and enterprise events. But how we got there is just as important as what we delivered.
A close up of a person 's face with sun shining behind with a blurry background.

Why Strategy, Storytelling, and Human Insight Still Win in the Age of AI

By Spin Creative • May 30, 2025
At Spin Creative, we’ve always believed that the power of brand storytelling lies in connecting emotionally with real people. But as artificial intelligence transforms industries at lightning speed, many marketing and creative leaders are asking the same question: What’s next for agencies like ours—and how do we continue to drive value in this new era? Here’s our point of view: AI is a powerful new tool—but not a replacement for insight, strategy, and human connection.
A neon sign that says market on it

Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Digital Marketing in 2025

By Spin Creative • March 30, 2025
In 2025, digital marketing continues to be a dynamic force—shaped by shifting consumer behaviors, ever-changing platform algorithms, and increasing privacy regulations. For brands looking to maintain relevance and performance in a crowded space, staying ahead means being strategic, adaptive, and creative. At Spin Creative, we believe that clarity in brand storytelling, paired with a smart digital approach, can help brands rise above the noise.
A black and white photo of lenses and filmmaking accessories in a production case.

How to Build a Winning Video Strategy Using the 4 Pillars of Digital Communications Planning

By Spin Creative • February 8, 2025
A great video marketing campaign doesn’t start with creative—it starts with strategy. To make an impact, your brand needs more than a beautiful video; it needs a plan that aligns with your audience’s needs, your business goals, and the right distribution channels.
Show More