Expert Techniques for Professionalizing Mobile-Based YouTube Thumbnails
As a content creator, you know the importance of a visually appealing thumbnail for YouTube videos. It gives your viewers a sneak peek of what they can expect from your video and helps it stand out in the crowded world of YouTube.
When creating your thumbnail, it’s important to remember that the recommended size is 1280 x 720 pixels and a minimum width of 640 pixels. With these dimensions in mind, let’s dive into how you can easily create stunning thumbnails for your YouTube videos using your mobile phone.
Method 1. Make a YouTube Thumbnail on iPhone With the iPhone Photos App
One way to create a thumbnail for your YouTube video on your iPhone is to use the built-in Photos app. The Photos app comes pre-installed on all iPhones and offers a range of editing tools you can use to create a thumbnail.
The Photos app on your iPhone offers a range of features that you can use to create a custom thumbnail for your YouTube video. Here are some of the features you can use:
Crop: The crop tool allows you to resize and reposition your thumbnail image by trimming away any unnecessary parts of the image.
Rotate: The rotate tool lets you adjust the orientation of your thumbnail image. You can rotate the image clockwise or counterclockwise to achieve the desired angle.
Adjust lighting and color: The lighting and color tools allow you to adjust the brightness, contrast, saturation, and other aspects of the thumbnail image to enhance its overall appearance.
Add text: You can use the text tool to add words or phrases to your thumbnail image. This can be a great way to include a call-to-action or to highlight a key feature of your video.
Add filters and stickers: The Photos app includes a range of filters and stickers that you can use to give your thumbnail image a unique look. You can experiment with filters and stickers to find the perfect one for your thumbnail.
To create a thumbnail using the Photos app on your iPhone, follow these steps:
Step1 Open the Photos app and find the image you want to use as your thumbnail. Tap on the image to open it.
Step2 Tap the Edit button in the top right corner of the screen. Use the crop and rotate tools to adjust the perspective and the aspect ratio of 16:9.
Step3 Tap the Filters button to access the filter effects. Scroll through the available filters and tap on one to apply it to your thumbnail image.
Step4 To write or draw on the image, tap the Markup button. This will open a toolbar with a variety of drawing and text tools. Use these tools to add your personal touch to the thumbnail.
Step5 When you’re satisfied with your thumbnail, tap Done in the top right corner of the screen.
Pros
Convenient
Easy to use
Versatile
Cons
Limited customization option
Lower image quality
This method is best for users looking for a quick and easy way to create a thumbnail on the go and doesn’t need many customization options. It’s also a good option for users needing computer or graphic design software access. If you’re looking for more advanced customization options or higher image quality, consider using other methods or software.
Method 2. Make YouTube Thumbnails on Android/iPhone With Third-Party Apps
In addition to using the built-in Photos app on your iPhone or Android device, there are also many third-party apps that you can use to create YouTube thumbnails. Some popular options include Canva, Adobe Spark, and FotoJet. These apps offer a wider range of customization options and design templates, making it easy to create professional-looking thumbnails even if you have yet to gain graphic design experience.
One popular third-party app for creating YouTube thumbnails on both iPhone and Android devices is PixelLab. PixelLab is a powerful graphic design app with many features and tools for creating custom thumbnails. With PixelLab, you can add text, shapes, and stickers to your thumbnail image and adjust the image’s color, lighting, and other aspects to get the perfect look. You can also import your images or graphics for your thumbnail design.
Here are the steps to create a thumbnail using PixelLab on your Android or iOS device:
Step1 Open the Play Store and search for PixelLab. Install the app.
Step2 Tap the “+” icon to add an image from your gallery.
Step3 Edit the image using the available tools, such as cropping, rotating, and adjusting the color and lighting.
Step4 Add text to the image and customize it to your liking.
Step5 Change the resolution of the image to 1280 x 720 pixels.
Step6 Save the image to your gallery by exporting it.
Pros
More customization options
Advanced editing tools
High image quality
Cons
Requires a separate app download
It may require a learning curve
This method is best for users looking for more advanced customization options and higher image quality for their YouTube thumbnails. It’s also a good option for users with experience with graphic design software and who are comfortable using advanced editing tools. If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to create a thumbnail and only need a few customization options, consider using the built-in Photos app or other simpler methods.
How To Add Thumbnails to YouTube Videos on Mobile
Once you’ve created your thumbnail image, it’s time to add it to your YouTube video. Adding a thumbnail to your YouTube video on your mobile device is a simple process that only requires a few steps.
Here’s how to do it on your mobile device:
Step1 Open the YouTube app on your mobile device and sign in to your account.
Step2 Tap on the My Videos tab to view a list of your uploaded videos.
Step3 Tap on the video and tap the “Edit“ button in the top right corner of the screen.