Thumbnail prompt templates
Concept and generate high-contrast video thumbnails that read at small sizes, with templates for reaction, before/after and object-focus layouts.
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1Brainstorm concepts
Use a chat model. A thumbnail should add information the title doesn't, not repeat it.
Video title: {{video_title}} Main subject: {{subject}} Emotion to trigger: {{emotion}} Suggest 5 thumbnail concepts. For each: the single focal point, what the image adds that the title doesn't say, up to 4 words of overlay text (or none), the layout (reaction / before-after / object focus / contrast), and a colour contrast pair. The thumbnail must be understandable at 160 pixels wide.2Reaction layout
Generate the background and subject without text; add text in an editor. If you use your own face, photograph it rather than generating it.
Bold YouTube-style thumbnail image, close-up of {{subject}} on the right third of the frame, expression of {{emotion}}, bright rim light separating the subject from a simple saturated background, high contrast, clean empty space on the left for text, no text in the image, 16:9.3Before/after and object focus
Before/after works for transformations; object focus works for reviews and tutorials.
Split-screen thumbnail, 16:9: left half shows {{subject}} in a dull, desaturated "before" state, right half shows it in a vivid, improved "after" state, a clear diagonal divide, high contrast and simple backgrounds on both sides, no text. Alternative: single oversized {{subject}} centred against a contrasting solid background, dramatic lighting, slight low angle, glossy and sharp, no text, 16:9.
Example input
Title: I tried every budget espresso machine under £200. Subject: compact espresso machine.
Example output
Concept 2: object focus + verdict Focal point: one machine lit like a trophy, the others blurred and dark behind it. Adds: there's a clear winner. Overlay: "THE ONE" (yellow on dark). Contrast pair: warm gold vs deep teal.
Troubleshooting
- Text renders badly: leave text out and add it in an editor. If you must generate text, Ideogram is generally stronger at typography.
- Thumbnail looks busy when small: view it at 160px; remove everything except the focal point and one background colour.
Known limitations
- Don't depict real people or brands in misleading ways; platform policies penalise misleading thumbnails.
- Generated faces of 'you' won't look like you; use a real photo for personal channels.