What are thumbnails good for?

Thumbnails are reduced sized images of a video or photo.  Used to give a quick representation of a file or provide an easy way to recognise an image.

You see, we're a very visual centric bunch, we artists.  And when it comes to organising, demonstrating and storage, it's far easier to glance over an image and spot what it is you're looking for as an image.  Rather than have to read even the smallest amount of text.

As an illustrator we use thumbnail sketches all the time to convey ideas and problem solve designs.  How many times have you heard a famous illustrator, architect or designer tell a story about the time they drew a sketch on the back of a napkin for a client at a dinner party and the rest was history...?

Even though the thumbnail is small, it is powerful.  You can quickly work out composition, lighting, mood all in just a tiny space sometimes no bigger than... well, your thumb.

Thumbnails are quick, spontaneous ideas from your mind to paper to see what works and what doesn't.  By creating thumbnails you're beginning the initial stages of planning your project.  The more that you resolve in these early stages the more success and less problems you'll have as the project progresses.

In part 2 of this weeks lesson we look at creating a thumbnail for your project.  For those who would like to join in, this months project is to create a book cover design for your favourite novel or story.


I'm recreating the cover for the sci-fi classic Dune.  Focusing on the Fremen characters of Arrakis.

For anyone interested in discussing their project in depth or seeking advice, why not join the DHi Community and inspire and get inspired with us.  It's free to join.


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