A thumbnail workflow for your own video
Choose a clear moment that represents the actual video: a readable product, an expressive face or the result of a demonstration. Compare candidates at a small display size. A sharp frame with one clear subject is often easier to read than a busy screenshot.
Download the selected JPG, then open Photo Editor if you need a caption or manual positioning. Use your original video again when choosing another frame. The chooser never changes or publishes your YouTube video.
Add text in Photo Editor →Current YouTube size guidance
YouTube currently recommends 3840×2160 for video thumbnails and 2160×3840 for Shorts. This tool offers a 3840-pixel maximum edge when the source supports it; JPG downloads stay below 2 MB for mobile uploads. Smaller sources produce smaller files.
YouTube thumbnail requirements · checked 25 October 2026
Why can a face be missing from the crop?
Center cropping changes which part of a portrait or landscape frame is visible. Choose another candidate or use Photo Editor to position the crop yourself. Inspect the preview rather than assuming the whole frame will fit.
Read the frame quality guide →FrameKit is independent and is not affiliated with YouTube or Google.