Most Shorts views come from the feed where videos autoplay. But views from the Home Page, Search, and your channel page require a click—and that's where thumbnails matter.
Where Thumbnails Drive Clicks
- YouTube Search Results: Thumbnails displayed in search
- Google Search Results: Your Short may appear in Google
- Related Videos: When your Short appears alongside others
- Channel Page: Visitors browsing your content
The "Clickable Frame" Strategy
When editing, insert a 0.1-second frame designed to be your thumbnail. This frame should have:
- Bold, readable text
- Clear face or subject
- High contrast colors
- Visual intrigue
Select this frame during upload. This increases Search traffic significantly.
Mobile-First Design
Remember that Shorts thumbnails are viewed at small sizes on mobile. Test your thumbnail at small scale—if it's not compelling at thumbnail size, it won't drive clicks.
Key Takeaways
- Thumbnails matter for Search, Home Page, and Channel Page
- Insert a designed frame specifically for thumbnail selection
- Include bold text and clear subjects
- Test at small sizes for mobile viewing
R
ReelRise Editorial Team
Expert insights on short-form video growth strategies, backed by AI analysis of millions of viral videos.