Social Media
YouTube Thumbnail Workflow
From source image to 1280×720, with safe areas and contrast already set.
Start at step one →1
Upload a face or source image
Half-body shots work best.
2
3
4
Raise contrast
So the subject reads at thumbnail size on a phone.
5
6
Export 1280×720
JPG under 2MB.
About this workflow
A thumbnail is judged at fingernail size. This workflow turns the three rules that follow from that — few words, high contrast, avoid the badge corner — into defaults.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a face?+
No. Choose the "No person" layout for a purely graphic direction.
Can I A/B test versions?+
Yes, generate four variants in one run and pick.