Elevating Your YouTube Presence with Effective Tags

How to Use YouTube Cards and Annotations?

Richard Bennett

Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions

0

YouTube Annotations and Cards are both tools for linking viewers to your other videos or to off-YouTube webpages. Two of the major differences between them are:

Annotations are not clickable on mobile devices.

You cannot choose the size or positioning of Cards.

This article will teach you about both Cards and Annotations and discuss the best uses for each of them.

Part 1: Annotations

Annotations are messages that float overtop of your videos in the YouTube player. Usually, annotations are clickable and take users to other content created by you.

Section 1: Types of Annotations

There are five types of YouTube annotations:

Notes are colored boxes placed over the top of your videos.

Speech Bubbles look like dialogue boxes in a comic strip. They have tails that you can adjust so it looks like one of the people in your video is saying what is written in the annotation.

Spotlights have a subtle border and are completely clear inside. Your text only appears when a viewer’s cursor hovers over top of these annotations.

Labels are like spotlights except that viewers do not have to hover over them for your text to be visible.

Any of these annotations can be used to link viewers to other videos, or as subscribe links. You can also add a simple Title to your video through the Annotations menu.

Section 2: How to Use Annotations

*Note: the above video mentions Pause annotations, which are no longer available.

Here are two of the best uses for annotations:

Clickable End Cards / Outros

One of the best ways you can use spotlight annotations is to create clickable end cards for your videos.

When your video finishes playing the YouTube player will display a selection of suggested videos that might direct viewers away from your channel. You can keep more of these viewers watching your content by creating your own ‘suggested videos’ card and putting it at the end of your videos.

Put thumbnails of two or three of your other videos on your end card, or use ‘picture-in-picture’ to actually imbed footage from them. Then, after you upload your video, go in and place clickable spotlight annotations over top of your video thumbnails.

This is one use for annotations that cannot be duplicated with cards.

Promoting Your Videos

You should not wait until the end of your video to start linking viewers to other content. Many viewers will click away before they see your end card because your video is not exactly what they were looking for. By placing note or speech bubble annotations occasionally throughout your videos you can catch some of these people before they click off of your channel.

This works especially well if you link to videos on similar subjects to the one you are annotating.

Instead of just linking to another video of yours, try to link to that video on a playlist. Once a viewer is on a playlist your videos will auto-play after each other, which is good for both your view count and watch time.

You can also use the newer YouTube Cards for this, but Annotations might still be a better choice because viewers only need to click once vs. twice for Cards.

Try both and see which performs best for your channel. It might be in your best interest to keep on using both as they target different audiences – Cards are clickable on mobile devices, for example, but Annotations are not.

Part 2: YouTube Cards

YouTube Cards are newer than annotations and a lot of people believe they will one day replace Annotations. While there are benefits to Cards – like embedding images to represent your links – you cannot choose the shape, size, or placement of them. This means they have limited uses.

When viewers click on a Card they are shown additional information and a thumbnail representing the page they will be taken to if they choose to click again. This extra step could be either help viewers decide to click your links or give them a second chance to decide they would rather not.

Section 1: When to Use Cards

A linked Annotation is simply a call to action viewers can click on. A Card is a call to action as well, but instead of taking the viewer directly to where its link leads when it is clicked a Card opens up into a larger version of itself with a thumbnail image.

Crowdfunding pages (Patreon is a great choice for video creators), charity fundraising pages, and merchandise stores are all examples of links that benefit from the format of YouTube Cards.

When you link a viewer to a non-YouTube page you break up their session time, which negatively impacts your watch time and SEO ranking. You want to make sure that the viewers you are directing away from YouTube are the ones most likely to convert after they leave. By ‘convert’ we mean to contribute to your Patreon campaign, donate to the charity you are promoting, or buy some of your merchandise.

Giving viewers more information and a thumbnail through a Card can help ensure the most interested viewers are the ones clicking your links.

If you want to find a video editing solution that empowers your imagination and creativity yet takes less effort, please try this robust and user-friendly video editing software Filmora, which is equipped with its own footage stock _ Wondershare Filmstock _ and will definitely enhance your productivity and helps you to make money by making videos much easier.

Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Richard Bennett

Quick-Fix Valorant Thumbnails: Professionally Done Now

As a content creator on YouTube, you know how important it is to have a strong thumbnail that stands out from the competition. Not only does a thumbnail help attract viewers to your video, but it’s also the first thing people see when they come across your content on the platform. That’s why it’s crucial to put effort into designing an eye-catching thumbnail that accurately represents your video.

When creating a thumbnail for your Valorant video, it’s important to remember that the recommended size is 1280 x 720 pixels. This will ensure that your thumbnail looks clear and professional on all devices. In addition to size, it’s also essential to consider the composition of your thumbnail. In this article, we’ll provide tips and tricks for creating professional Valorant thumbnails that will help boost your views and engagement.

What Is Valorant?

Valorant is a free-to-play tactical first-person shooter video game developed and published by Riot Games. The game was released in June 2020 and has quickly gained popularity due to its high-stakes, team-based gameplay and unique characters.

In Valorant, players choose from a roster of agents, each with their abilities and playstyle, and compete in 5v5 objective-based matches. The game has a variety of game modes, including the popular “Spike Rush” mode, which features a shorter round time and special abilities for all players. Valorant is available on Microsoft Windows and will soon be available on other platforms.

Why Create Thumbnails for Your Valorant YouTube Videos?

Creating a thumbnail for your Valorant YouTube video is an important step in the video creation process. A thumbnail is a visual representation of your video and can help attract viewers to your content.

When someone comes across your video in their feed, the thumbnail is often the first thing they see, so it’s crucial to make it as eye-catching and compelling as possible. A strong thumbnail can help increase your views and engagement and establish your brand as a content creator. By putting effort into designing a professional and relevant thumbnail, you can set your video apart from the competition and entice viewers to click and watch.

How To Make a Valorant Thumbnail for Free?

If you want to create a Valorant thumbnail for your YouTube videos but don’t want to spend any money, you still have plenty of options. One way to create a thumbnail for free is by using a free online design tool or thumbnail maker. Or, you can try Wondershare Filmora .

Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

Not only is Filmora a powerful video editing software, and it has a range of features and tools that make it easy to design and create custom thumbnails. Even better, you can use the trial version of Filmora to create a thumbnail for free. You need to download the trial version and start experimenting with the various design tools and templates to create a thumbnail that reflects your style and brand.

Creating a Valorant thumbnail for YouTube using Filmora can be very easy. Just follow these steps:

Step1 Take a screenshot of your gameplay by pressing the “F12“ key on your keyboard while in the game. This will save the screenshot to your computer.

Step2 Launch Filmora and create a new project.

Step3 Import the screenshot into the media library by clicking the “Import“ button.

Step4 Drag the screenshot from the media library into the timeline.

Step5 Use the “Smart Cutout“ feature to select and cut out specific elements from the screenshot.

Step6 Choose the elements of the screenshot that you want to keep.

Step7 Remove any parts of the screenshot that you do not want to include in the thumbnail.

Step8 Extract the selected elements from the screenshot. You can resize the elements as desired.

Step9 Add a background to the track below the screenshot by dragging a background image from the media library into the timeline. Alternatively, you can import your image as a background by clicking the “Import“ button and selecting the image file from your computer.

Step10 Add an effect, such as a gun effect, by searching for the desired effect in the “Effects“ tab and dragging it into the timeline.

Step11 Adjust the opacity of the effect as desired.

Step12 Add some titles and texts for your thumbnail.

Step13 Customize the appearance and rotation of the fire effect as desired.

Step14 Edit the texts and adjust the appearance of the texts in the Titles window.

Step15 Choose a still frame that you like and take a snapshot of it.

Step16 Select the snapshot format and storage path. The snapshot will appear in the media library.

Step17 Right-click on the snapshot and select “Reveal in Explorer“ to find the file on your computer. You can now use it as your Valorant thumbnail.

Please note that while using the trial version of Filmora, a watermark will be added to the exported video. However, the watermark will not be added to the snapshot, so you can use the snapshot as your Valorant thumbnail without any issues.

Tips for Making Awesome Thumbnails for Your YouTube Valorant Videos

By following these tips, you can create an eye-catching and effective thumbnail for your Valorant YouTube videos that will help boost your views and engagement.

• Use high-quality images and graphics: A thumbnail with low-quality or pixelated images will not be as effective as a thumbnail with clear, high-resolution graphics.
• Use bold, eye-catching colors: Bright colors can help your thumbnail stand out in a crowded feed.
• Include relevant text: Use text to give viewers an idea of what to expect from your video and to entice them to click.
• Use clear, legible fonts: Make sure the text on your thumbnail is easy to read and doesn’t distract from the overall design.
• Keep it simple: Avoid overcrowding your thumbnail with too many elements or text. A clean, simple design is often more effective.
• Make it relevant: Your thumbnail should accurately represent the content of your video.
• Test different designs: Be bold and experiment with design elements and layouts to find what works best for your brand.

Want To Be a Valorant YouTuber? Learn From These 5 Ones

If you’re interested in becoming a Valorant YouTuber, there are many successful content creators in the Valorant community whom you can learn from. Here are five Valorant YouTubers that are worth checking out:

1. Shroud

Shroud is a well-known and respected content creator and player in the Valorant community. He has a strong background in professional CS:GO and has continued to thrive in the competitive Valorant scene despite being older than many other eSports players.

He is known for his gameplay videos and relaxed, easygoing personality, contributing to his widespread popularity and admiration among fans. In addition to his professional gameplay, Shroud is highly skilled and continues to compete at a high level, further solidifying his reputation as a top Valorant player.

2. TenZ

TenZ is a highly skilled and popular Valorant player and content creator known for his exceptional ability in the game. He has achieved a high level of success and has been recognized as one of the best Valorant players in the world.

In addition to his full matches and 1v1 videos, TenZ also produces educational content, providing tips and tricks to his viewers. Despite facing some challenges and setbacks, TenZ has remained a prominent figure in the Valorant community and continues to be highly respected for his skills and contributions.

3. n0ted

n0ted is a dedicated and prolific Valorant content creator, consistently uploading new videos to his YouTube channel daily. He offers a wide range of content, including gameplay highlights, funny moments, helpful tips, and updates on the latest happenings in the Valorant community.

His channel is a reliable source for those looking for consistently fresh and diverse Valorant content on YouTube. Whether you’re interested in learning new strategies, having a few laughs, or staying up to date with the latest developments in the game, n0ted’s channel has something for everyone.

4. Hiko

Hiko is a well-known Valorant content creator and former player of Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO). He is known for his skill in first-person shooter games and his expertise in Valorant, which he shares through tips and gameplay videos on his channels on Twitch and YouTube.

Hiko is currently a content creator for 100 Thieves, a gaming organization he represents in various tournaments and competitions. He is a reliable source of high-quality Valorant content and regularly uploads new videos for his followers.

5. C9 meL

C9 meL is a highly respected professional Valorant player and leader of the team Cloud 9 White. She is known for her sense of humor, helpful tips, and Agent tutorials and montages. As the in-game leader for her team, MeL has developed exceptional game sense and strategic skills, making her a valuable teacher and resource for other players.

In addition to her instructional content, MeL’s videos often feature a mix of comedy and skill, making them enjoyable for entertainment and improvement purposes. Overall, MeL is a talented and well-respected member of the Valorant community.

Conclusion

Creating a Valorant thumbnail for your YouTube videos can be important for promoting and attracting views to your content. Using Filmora, you can easily create a thumbnail for free by following the steps outlined in this article.

Additionally, there are many successful Valorant YouTubers who offer a range of content and can serve as inspiration for those interested in starting their channel. Creating visually appealing and engaging thumbnails ensures that your videos stand out and draw in viewers.

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

Not only is Filmora a powerful video editing software, and it has a range of features and tools that make it easy to design and create custom thumbnails. Even better, you can use the trial version of Filmora to create a thumbnail for free. You need to download the trial version and start experimenting with the various design tools and templates to create a thumbnail that reflects your style and brand.

Creating a Valorant thumbnail for YouTube using Filmora can be very easy. Just follow these steps:

Step1 Take a screenshot of your gameplay by pressing the “F12“ key on your keyboard while in the game. This will save the screenshot to your computer.

Step2 Launch Filmora and create a new project.

Step3 Import the screenshot into the media library by clicking the “Import“ button.

Step4 Drag the screenshot from the media library into the timeline.

Step5 Use the “Smart Cutout“ feature to select and cut out specific elements from the screenshot.

Step6 Choose the elements of the screenshot that you want to keep.

Step7 Remove any parts of the screenshot that you do not want to include in the thumbnail.

Step8 Extract the selected elements from the screenshot. You can resize the elements as desired.

Step9 Add a background to the track below the screenshot by dragging a background image from the media library into the timeline. Alternatively, you can import your image as a background by clicking the “Import“ button and selecting the image file from your computer.

Step10 Add an effect, such as a gun effect, by searching for the desired effect in the “Effects“ tab and dragging it into the timeline.

Step11 Adjust the opacity of the effect as desired.

Step12 Add some titles and texts for your thumbnail.

Step13 Customize the appearance and rotation of the fire effect as desired.

Step14 Edit the texts and adjust the appearance of the texts in the Titles window.

Step15 Choose a still frame that you like and take a snapshot of it.

Step16 Select the snapshot format and storage path. The snapshot will appear in the media library.

Step17 Right-click on the snapshot and select “Reveal in Explorer“ to find the file on your computer. You can now use it as your Valorant thumbnail.

Please note that while using the trial version of Filmora, a watermark will be added to the exported video. However, the watermark will not be added to the snapshot, so you can use the snapshot as your Valorant thumbnail without any issues.

Tips for Making Awesome Thumbnails for Your YouTube Valorant Videos

By following these tips, you can create an eye-catching and effective thumbnail for your Valorant YouTube videos that will help boost your views and engagement.

• Use high-quality images and graphics: A thumbnail with low-quality or pixelated images will not be as effective as a thumbnail with clear, high-resolution graphics.
• Use bold, eye-catching colors: Bright colors can help your thumbnail stand out in a crowded feed.
• Include relevant text: Use text to give viewers an idea of what to expect from your video and to entice them to click.
• Use clear, legible fonts: Make sure the text on your thumbnail is easy to read and doesn’t distract from the overall design.
• Keep it simple: Avoid overcrowding your thumbnail with too many elements or text. A clean, simple design is often more effective.
• Make it relevant: Your thumbnail should accurately represent the content of your video.
• Test different designs: Be bold and experiment with design elements and layouts to find what works best for your brand.

Want To Be a Valorant YouTuber? Learn From These 5 Ones

If you’re interested in becoming a Valorant YouTuber, there are many successful content creators in the Valorant community whom you can learn from. Here are five Valorant YouTubers that are worth checking out:

1. Shroud

Shroud is a well-known and respected content creator and player in the Valorant community. He has a strong background in professional CS:GO and has continued to thrive in the competitive Valorant scene despite being older than many other eSports players.

He is known for his gameplay videos and relaxed, easygoing personality, contributing to his widespread popularity and admiration among fans. In addition to his professional gameplay, Shroud is highly skilled and continues to compete at a high level, further solidifying his reputation as a top Valorant player.

2. TenZ

TenZ is a highly skilled and popular Valorant player and content creator known for his exceptional ability in the game. He has achieved a high level of success and has been recognized as one of the best Valorant players in the world.

In addition to his full matches and 1v1 videos, TenZ also produces educational content, providing tips and tricks to his viewers. Despite facing some challenges and setbacks, TenZ has remained a prominent figure in the Valorant community and continues to be highly respected for his skills and contributions.

3. n0ted

n0ted is a dedicated and prolific Valorant content creator, consistently uploading new videos to his YouTube channel daily. He offers a wide range of content, including gameplay highlights, funny moments, helpful tips, and updates on the latest happenings in the Valorant community.

His channel is a reliable source for those looking for consistently fresh and diverse Valorant content on YouTube. Whether you’re interested in learning new strategies, having a few laughs, or staying up to date with the latest developments in the game, n0ted’s channel has something for everyone.

4. Hiko

Hiko is a well-known Valorant content creator and former player of Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO). He is known for his skill in first-person shooter games and his expertise in Valorant, which he shares through tips and gameplay videos on his channels on Twitch and YouTube.

Hiko is currently a content creator for 100 Thieves, a gaming organization he represents in various tournaments and competitions. He is a reliable source of high-quality Valorant content and regularly uploads new videos for his followers.

5. C9 meL

C9 meL is a highly respected professional Valorant player and leader of the team Cloud 9 White. She is known for her sense of humor, helpful tips, and Agent tutorials and montages. As the in-game leader for her team, MeL has developed exceptional game sense and strategic skills, making her a valuable teacher and resource for other players.

In addition to her instructional content, MeL’s videos often feature a mix of comedy and skill, making them enjoyable for entertainment and improvement purposes. Overall, MeL is a talented and well-respected member of the Valorant community.

Conclusion

Creating a Valorant thumbnail for your YouTube videos can be important for promoting and attracting views to your content. Using Filmora, you can easily create a thumbnail for free by following the steps outlined in this article.

Additionally, there are many successful Valorant YouTubers who offer a range of content and can serve as inspiration for those interested in starting their channel. Creating visually appealing and engaging thumbnails ensures that your videos stand out and draw in viewers.