Step 1: Copy the YouTube Video URL
First, navigate to the YouTube video whose thumbnail you want to recreate. Copy the video's URL from the address bar. This URL will serve as a reference for VidIQ's AI algorithm. It's crucial to ensure the URL is accurate to allow the AI to fetch the correct thumbnail.
Copying the URL is straightforward; select the entire address in the address bar and press Ctrl+C (or Cmd+C on macOS) to copy it to your clipboard. This step ensures that VidIQ has the exact reference point for thumbnail recreation.
Step 2: Access VidIQ's Thumbnail Generator
Open VidIQ and navigate to the 'Thumbnails' section on the left-HAND side menu. This section houses all the tools related to thumbnail creation and optimization. VidIQ offers various options, including generating thumbnails from scratch, using existing templates, or recreating thumbnails using AI. This step sets the stage for leveraging VidIQ's Artificial Intelligence capabilities to enhance your thumbnail design process.
Step 3: Select the 'Reference' Option
Within the 'Thumbnails' section, find the option labeled 'Reference'. This option allows you to use an existing thumbnail as a starting point for your design. By selecting 'Reference', you're instructing VidIQ’s AI to analyze the chosen thumbnail and generate similar designs. You'll find three main options: 'Video', 'Subject', and 'Reference'. Choosing 'Reference' is critical for recreating an existing thumbnail using Artificial Intelligence.
Step 4: Paste the YouTube Video URL
Paste the YouTube video URL into the search bar within the 'Reference' option. VidIQ will then fetch the thumbnail associated with that video. Make sure the URL is pasted correctly to avoid any errors. Once pasted, hit the search or enter button to allow VidIQ to retrieve the thumbnail from the provided URL.
This step is essential for ensuring that the AI has the correct source image to work with.
Step 5: Select the Thumbnail and Continue
Once VidIQ finds the thumbnail, select it and click 'Continue'. This confirms that you want to use this particular thumbnail as a reference for generating new designs. After selecting the thumbnail, VidIQ will use Artificial Intelligence algorithms to understand its visual elements and design principles, enabling it to create similar thumbnails. Clicking 'Continue' finalizes the selection and initiates the AI generation process.
Step 6: Generate New Thumbnails with AI
Click the 'Create' button to initiate the AI thumbnail generation process. VidIQ will now use the reference thumbnail to generate several new thumbnail options. The AI analyzes the colors, composition, and overall style of the reference thumbnail to produce similar yet unique designs. This step showcases the power of Artificial Intelligence in creating engaging thumbnails efficiently.
The generation process may take a few moments, depending on the complexity of the reference thumbnail and the desired variations.
Step 7: Review and Customize the AI-Generated Thumbnails
Examine the AI-generated thumbnails and select the one that best suits your video content and branding. You can further customize these thumbnails using VidIQ's built-in editing tools. Customization options include adjusting colors, adding text, and incorporating additional design elements. Tailoring the AI-generated thumbnails ensures that they align with your brand identity and resonate with your target audience.
This step allows you to refine the AI’s output to perfectly match your vision.
Step 8: Download Your New Thumbnail
Once you're satisfied with your customized thumbnail, download it and use it for your YouTube video. The new thumbnail will help attract more viewers and increase your click-through rate. Regularly updating and optimizing your thumbnails is a crucial aspect of maintaining and growing your YouTube channel. With VidIQ's Artificial Intelligence-powered tools, this process becomes significantly easier and more efficient.
Using the right thumbnail can have a substantial impact on your video's performance.