The tutorial video discusses the importance of thumbnails in video optimization on YouTube. The creator, Justin Brown, shares a step-by-step guide on how to create effective thumbnails for free using Canva, a free online design service. He shows how to:
1. Take a screenshot or freeze-frame from a video.
2. Upload the image to Canva and stretch it to fit the canvas size.
3. Add text and shapes to make the thumbnail pop.
4. Adjust colors, font size, and angles to match the brand.
5. Add graphics and logos to enhance the thumbnail.
6. Apply filters and adjustments to make the image stand out.
Justin also shares tips on how to make the thumbnail look good at smaller sizes and how to avoid covering critical text with graphics. He also mentions that his company now outsources their thumbnail design to a subscription design service called Design Pickle.
The video aims to help viewers create eye-catching thumbnails that grab attention and increase views on YouTube, without needing to use expensive software like Photoshop.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. Justin Brown is the creator of the tutorial.
2. The tutorial is about creating thumbnails for YouTube videos.
3. Canva is a free online service used to create thumbnails.
4. The recommended dimensions for a YouTube thumbnail are 1920 x 1080.
5. VLC can be used to playback videos and take a snapshot.
6. On Mac, the shortcut to take a screenshot is Command + Shift + 4.
7. On Windows, the Snip tool can be used to take a screenshot.
8. Oswald is the font used in the tutorial.
9. The tutorial uses a dark gray background color and white font.
10. The saturation and sharpening of an image can be adjusted to make it pop.
11. Most people view thumbnails on small screens, so it's essential to consider this when designing.
12. Critical text should not be placed in the top right or bottom right corners of the thumbnail, as it may be covered by the watch later button or video length.
13. The Design Pickle service is used for outsourcing thumbnail design.
14. Design Pickle offers a monthly subscription for unlimited design work.
15. The links to Design Pickle and other resources are available in the description below the video.