Stream: How to change Thumbnail Image on a Stream Video

Key insights

• To change a Thumbnail Image on a video in Microsoft Stream, first open the video stored in OneDrive or SharePoint and select it in Microsoft Stream.


• Access the Video Settings by clicking the settings icon on the upper-right corner of the playback page.


• Select a thumbnail option: either choose a frame from the video using the edit pencil icon or upload a custom image by clicking the upload arrow icon.


• If selecting a frame, use the seek bar to find your desired frame and click "Select this frame." If uploading an image, browse your computer for the image file.


• After setting your desired thumbnail, ensure it appears correctly and then click "Done" or "Save" to apply changes.


• The ability to set thumbnails is part of new features available since videos migrated from Classic Stream to Stream on SharePoint. Default thumbnails are random frames unless customized.

Introduction to Customizing Thumbnails in Stream

Microsoft Stream has evolved significantly since its migration from Stream Classic to Stream in SharePoint. This change has brought about a host of new features and improvements, including enhanced video settings and player functionalities. One notable feature is the ability to customize the thumbnail image of a video, which can make your video more appealing to viewers. In this article, we will delve into the process of changing the thumbnail image on a Stream video, discuss the differences between Classic Stream and Stream on SharePoint, and explore the importance of video thumbnails.

Understanding Video Thumbnails

A video thumbnail is a still image that appears as an overlay on a video when it is embedded on a SharePoint page. It serves as a visual preview of the video content, often accompanied by a play button overlay. By default, Microsoft Stream selects a random frame from the video to serve as the thumbnail. However, this default choice may not always be the most effective representation of your video content. Therefore, customizing the thumbnail can significantly enhance the attractiveness and engagement of your video.

Steps to Change the Thumbnail Image

To change the thumbnail image of a video in Microsoft Stream, follow these straightforward steps:

• Open the Video: Navigate to the location where your video is stored, such as OneDrive or SharePoint. Select and open the video in Microsoft Stream.
• Access Video Settings: Click on the Video settings icon located in the upper-right corner of the video playback page.
• Choose Thumbnail Option: In the Video settings panel, locate the Thumbnail section. Here, you have two options:
  • Select a Frame from the Video: Click the pencil (edit) icon. Use the seekbar to navigate to the desired frame. Once you’ve selected the preferred frame, click Select this frame to set it as the thumbnail.
  • Upload a Custom Image: Click the upload icon (usually depicted as an upward arrow). Browse your computer to select the image you want to use as the thumbnail. After uploading, ensure the new thumbnail appears correctly.
• Save Changes: After setting your desired thumbnail, click Done or Save to apply the changes.

It is important to note that the availability of these options may depend on your organization’s Microsoft 365 settings and the permissions granted to your account. If you encounter any issues or do not see these options, it is advisable to contact your IT administrator for assistance.

Classic Stream vs. Stream on SharePoint

Understanding the differences between Classic Stream and Stream on SharePoint is crucial for users who are transitioning or have transitioned to the new platform. While some features from Classic Stream have been recreated in Stream on SharePoint, others are entirely new capabilities. The ability to set a custom thumbnail is one such feature that enhances user experience by allowing for greater control over video presentation. This customization can lead to increased engagement and better communication of the video's content.

Challenges and Considerations

When customizing thumbnails, there are several challenges and considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, selecting the right frame or image is crucial, as it should accurately represent the video content and entice viewers to click and watch. Additionally, organizations must balance the need for customization with the permissions and settings available in their Microsoft 365 environment. Ensuring that all users have the necessary access and understanding of the process is essential for successful implementation. Furthermore, while custom thumbnails can enhance video appeal, they also require additional effort and resources to create and manage. Organizations must weigh the benefits of increased engagement against the time and resources required to maintain a library of custom thumbnails.

Conclusion

Customizing the thumbnail image of a video in Microsoft Stream is a valuable feature that can significantly enhance the appeal and engagement of your video content. By understanding the process and the differences between Classic Stream and Stream on SharePoint, users can effectively utilize this feature to improve their video presentations. However, it is important to consider the challenges and tradeoffs involved in customizing thumbnails, ensuring that the benefits outweigh the resources required. As Microsoft continues to improve Stream on SharePoint, users can look forward to even more enhancements and capabilities in the future.

Keywords

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