How to Make YouTube Thumbnails with Text Behind
Create eye‑catching thumbnails. Put text behind a person with AI subject detection, maintain readability with stroke/shadow, and save in any size you need.
Tips
- Use bold fonts and a light stroke for readable text over busy backgrounds.
- Position text within safe areas to avoid cropping on mobile.
- Save in any size for crisp results.
Learn more: Text Behind Image
Related Learn guides: Fonts · Contrast & Stroke · Safe Areas · Export Sizes
YouTube specifics
- Sizes: 1280×720 (min) or 1920×1080 (recommended). Keep subject and headline away from edges for smaller devices.
- Hooks: 2–4 words in a condensed bold sans‑serif work best. Avoid line breaks unless absolutely necessary.
- Contrast: prefer white/yellow text with a thin stroke if background is busy; ensure faces and eyes remain unobstructed.
Troubleshooting
- Text covering the face: reduce font size slightly or move text to a darker area; never cover eyes.
- Muddy readability: add a thin stroke or subtle shadow; increase contrast or reposition against a simpler background.
- Too cramped: shorten the hook; increase line height; keep comfortable margins from the edges.
FAQ
What thumbnail sizes should I use?
1280×720 minimum; 1920×1080 recommended for high-quality uploads.
How do I keep faces visible?
Enable Text Behind AI, keep hooks short, and avoid covering eyes; add thin stroke for contrast.
Also see: Instagram Posts · Shorts & Reels · Pricing · FAQ.