Step 1: Grasp the Fundamentals
Visit the official YouTube Help pages to learn requirements:
- Dimensions: 1280x720 pixels (16:9 aspect ratio), minimum width 640 pixels.
- File formats: JPG, PNG, GIF, BMP, WebP.
- File size: Under 2 MB.
Read the Thumbnails policy to avoid prohibited content like nudity, violence, or misleading images.
Key rules:
- No pornographic or sexually gratifying imagery.
- No graphic violence or gore.
- Thumbnails must represent video content accurately.
Practice: Note down specs and 3 policy examples in your notes.