Thumbnails are the visual "front door" to your content. As the first thing your members see while scrolling through your app, they play a crucial role in engagement and branding.
While every uploaded video receives a default system thumbnail, you have full control to customize these images to make your app look professional and cohesive.
Understanding the 4 Thumbnail Types
In the VidApp Builder, you can set up to four different thumbnail variations for a single piece of content. The app will automatically display the correct version based on the layout template you have chosen for that screen.
| Thumbnail Type | Where it appears |
|---|---|
| Primary | This is the default thumbnail. It is used in the majority of list and card layouts. If other specific thumbnails aren't set, the system often falls back to this image. |
| Square | Used specifically when you select the Grid - Square or Slider - Square layout templates in the Builder. |
| Portrait | Used specifically when you select the Slider - Portrait layout template (similar to a movie poster or mobile-first vertical look). |
| Wide Landscape | Designed for larger screens. This thumbnail will only appear on your Web App and TV Apps. |
How to Use "Capture Thumbnail" (Video Only)
For video content, you don't always need to design a separate image. You can use our built-in Capture Thumbnail tool to grab a specific frame from the video itself.
Steps to capture a frame:
Navigate to Content > Manage in the Builder.
Click on the specific video content you want to edit.
Scroll to the Video section.
Click the Capture Thumbnail button.
Use the player to find the perfect frame and confirm your selection.
Note: This feature is only available for Video content items.
Best Practices for Effective Thumbnails
To ensure your app looks high-quality and keeps users engaged, follow these design guidelines:
Use High Quality Images: Always use clear, high-resolution images. blurry or pixelated thumbnails make the entire app feel less professional.
Include Recognizable Elements: Feature your instructors' faces, capture key action moments, or use clear, bold text to indicate what the video is about at a glance.
Mind the Contrast: If you add text to your thumbnail, ensure it is easily readable against the background image.
Maintain Consistency: Try to use a similar style, filter, or font across all your thumbnails. This builds a cohesive "brand look" for your platform.
Test and Iterate: Don't be afraid to try different designs (e.g., text vs. no text) to see which style your audience clicks on most.