Thumbnails: Your Clip's First Impression


What are Thumbnails?

Thumbnails are the placeholder preview of your clip and are the first thing customers see. Think of them as the cover art for your content. They’re designed to give customers a quick glimpse of what to expect, so choosing the best one to highlight the fetish(es) in your clip is key to helping them decide if they want to click and explore further.


What does Safe For Work (SFW) mean?

Safe For Work (SFW), in relation to fetish and adult content, means that the thumbnail and clip preview does not include anything sexual, explicit, or inappropriate for anyone under the age of eighteen (18). 


It is content, specifically visual images or videos, that anyone who may happen to see it would not automatically think or assume it is of an adult nature. SFW content is generally okay to view in public or professional settings, unlike adult content, which is considered Not Safe for Work (NSFW) and should be kept private and for adults (18+) only. 


SFW content means “safe for work” – it’s clean, non-explicit content that can be shared on public platforms like Instagram or X without getting flagged. Think: teaser images, behind-the-scenes shots, props, or portraits that show your vibe without nudity or graphic content. It helps promote your store and brand outside of adult spaces.

Some SFW guidelines to follow: 

  • Images or scenes in your preview wearing in fetish attire (fully covered or suggestive, but not nude, including not sheer / see-through clothing, nipple covers (pasties) or explicit or with sex toys)
  • Behind-the-scenes peeks at your shoot day or setup
  • Close-ups of props, gear, or textures (like latex, heels, etc.)
  • Talking-to-camera POV videos about your clip describing the scene (without NSFW visuals or language)


How will SFW Content be Used on Clips4Sale?

SFW content (thumbnails and previews) will be shown to non-logged-in users in regions where it’s required (e.g. regions where we can not show sexually explicit content). If no SFW content is uploaded, a standard blurred version of the NSFW clip thumbnail will be displayed.




Why are SFW Thumbnails Important?

  • SFW Thumbnails are Shown to Everyone: SFW content will be shown to non-logged-in users in regions where it’s required (e.g. regions where we can not show sexually explicit content). 
  • SFW Thumbnails Re-Engage Customers: Updating your already posted clips with SFW content (thumbnails and previews) can help you re-engage with potential customers and drive new sales for you in regions where promotion was previously not maximized. 
  • Convey Information Instantly: Even before reading a title, a well-chosen thumbnail can communicate the theme of your content and the fetish(es) featured in the clip, keeping in mind they must be SFW.
  • Improve Click-Through Rate (CTR): An eye-catching and relevant thumbnail encourages clicks, driving more engagement with your content and driving up your sales.


For more information, check SFW Thumbnails and Previews.



Recommendations for Effective Thumbnails:

  • Be Relevant and Accurate:Your thumbnail should genuinely represent your content. Make sure you choose a frame from your clip that features the fetish you’re choosing as your main category, while keeping the image SFW.
  • High Quality and Clear: Choose a frame from your clip that is clear, sharp and easy to understand, even when displayed at a small size. Avoid blurriness or pixelation.

  • Keep it Simple: Avoid cluttering your thumbnail with too many elements. A clean, uncluttered design is easier to process quickly. Don’t use a collage of many images – just choose one frame that showcases the main fetish and/or performer(s), remembering that the SFW images should not be sexually explicit.

  • Brand Consistency: If you choose to add your logo or text – do not cover or hide the fetish! Customers are buying with their eyes first – not reading text. Develop a consistent style for your thumbnails, this builds brand recognition and makes your content easily identifiable.

  • Test and Analyze: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different thumbnails such as, up close shots and full scenes within the thumbnail. Monitor your traffic, sales and other analytics to see what has the best traction with your customers, and adapt your approach accordingly.


If you have any questions or need help uploading your content, contact our Creator Experience Team. They’re available 24/7 and can be contacted via email, chat or phone!