Use this tool to extract frames from your video file and save them as images. You can set the thumbnail dimensions, format, and number of timeline previews.
Video Thumbnail Generator
Generate thumbnail images from any frame of your video.
Options
Number of preview images in the timeline (more takes longer). Applies on next video load.
About the Video Thumbnail Generator
Easily grab specific frames from your video file to use as thumbnails. This tool processes your video directly in your browser using JavaScript - no files are uploaded to our server.
How It Works
- Use the Options panel to set your desired thumbnail width, height, image format (PNG/JPG), and the number of previews to generate for the timeline.
- Drag and drop your video file onto the designated area, or click to browse and select a file.
- Once the video loads, a visual timeline preview will be generated below the player based on your settings (this may take a few moments). The video player and controls will then appear.
- Use the main slider, type the exact time (in seconds), or click on a frame in the timeline preview to navigate to the frame you want.
- Click the "Generate Thumbnail" button. The selected frame will be captured, resized to your specified dimensions, and added to the Generated Thumbnails list below.
- Each thumbnail in the list has its own "Download" button to save the image in your chosen format.
This tool is perfect for quickly creating preview images for your videos for use on websites, social media, or content platforms.
Note: Processing happens entirely in your browser. Generating the timeline preview for larger video files or a high number of timeline thumbnails may take some time and consume resources. Supported video formats depend on your browser (typically MP4, WebM, Ogg).
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Video Thumbnail Generator work?
This tool uses JavaScript in your browser. When you upload a video, it's loaded into an HTML video player. You select a specific time using the slider, input field, or timeline preview. Clicking 'Generate Thumbnail' tells the browser to seek the video to that exact moment, draw that single video frame onto a hidden HTML canvas element, resize it according to your options, and then display it as an image you can download. No video data leaves your computer.
Are my video files uploaded to the server?
No, absolutely not. The entire process, from loading the video to generating the thumbnail image, happens directly within your web browser on your device. Your video files are never uploaded to our server, ensuring your privacy and security.
What video formats can I use?
The tool relies on your browser's built-in video playback capabilities. Most modern browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge) support common formats like MP4 (usually with H.264/AAC codecs), WebM (VP8/VP9/AV1 video with Vorbis/Opus audio), and sometimes Ogg (Theora/Vorbis). If your browser can play the video, this tool can likely generate a thumbnail from it.
How do I choose the specific frame for the thumbnail?
You have three ways: 1. Drag the main time slider below the video player. 2. Enter the exact time in seconds (e.g., 12.5) into the number input field next to the slider. 3. Click on one of the small preview images in the timeline generated below the video player (if available).
Can I change the size or format (PNG/JPG) of the generated thumbnail?
Yes. Use the 'Options' panel to set your desired 'Thumbnail Width' and 'Thumbnail Height' in pixels. The tool will scale the captured frame to fit these dimensions while maintaining the video's original aspect ratio. You can also choose between PNG and JPG formats using the radio buttons in the options.
Why does the timeline preview take time to generate?
Generating the timeline involves seeking the video to multiple different points in time and capturing a small image (frame grab) at each point. Seeking within a video file, especially a large one, can take time for the browser to process. Since this all happens locally on your device, it can be resource-intensive and takes a few moments, particularly for longer videos or when generating many timeline thumbnails.
Can I generate multiple thumbnails from the same video?
Yes. After loading your video, you can navigate to different time points using the slider, time input, or timeline, and click the 'Generate Thumbnail' button for each frame you want to capture. Each generated thumbnail will be added to the list below, with its own download button.