Thread by @theJayAlto

What do all of these thumbnails have in common?

They're all designed by @venturepsd

I got to ask him 4 questions about making better thumbnails.

And he didn't disappoint... (thread)

How did you learn how to design thumbnails?

I’m entirely self-taught.

Specific thumbnail tutorials on Youtube are pretty rare.

In the end, I learned by doing.

I've been fascinated by design since I was 13.

I made 1000s of rubbish designs before they started to look good.

What design tips would you give to creators?

LAYOUT:
🔲 Work out a good layout before you start
🔲 Think about your target audience and why they would click

ASSETS:
🔲 Take photos that are as interesting/exaggerated as possible
🔲 Spending time taking unique photos pays off

What design tips would you give to creators? (cont.)

CAMERA RAW:
🔲 Use the Camera Raw tool to improve your colour correction
🔲 Camera Raw: Images that contain minimally processed data

COLORS:
🔲 Use a color circle
🔲 Complementary colours contrast & get the viewers' attention

What's your creative process when making a thumbnail?

When the concept/assets are finalized, I start with the layout.

Adjusting the sizing and positioning until I’m happy.

Most important element should be the 1st thing the viewer notices

What's your creative process when making a thumbnail? (cont.)

After that, I'm photomanipulating where needed...

And colour correcting the images.

Finally, I always mockup the thumbnail to review

I use thumbsup.tv

What general advice would you give to creators about thumbnails?

I'm sure you've heard it before...

The thumbnail is just as important as the video.

People scroll fast, keep your thumbnails simple and eyecatching

And once you have their attention, give them a reason to click.

+ Some bonus advice for creators:

If you aren't making the thumbnails yourself, a good relationship between the creator and thumbnail artist is crucial.

It can take your designer's creativity, productivity and motivation to the next level, which will mean better thumbnails.

Summary:

🔲 Practise makes perfect
🔲 Focus on the layout, using unique images, colour grading
🔲 Prioritise your elements
🔲 Mockup your thumbnails

Thanks to @venturepsd for the time.

Got some questions? Reply below and Venture might answer them if you're lucky...