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Different imagery for containers and details pages - flexibility for greater impact

The visual presentation of your content is just as important as the content itself.

by

Marianne Hainitz

Solution Manager

December 11, 2024

Best practices

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With a Brightcove Videocloud integration, you have two types of video images to work with: those seen on the video or tv series detail pages and those seen in the containers. While it’s common to upload the same image for both, you can add to your creative potential by using distinct images for each. 

Note: This capability is currently only available with a Brightcove Videocloud integration. 

Benefits of using separate images

Here are some examples of when using different images for containers and detail pages could be beneficial:

  1. Descriptive thumbnails and cinematic posters
    For container images, you can opt for a more descriptive image that conveys what the video is about. For the video details page you can instead use a striking image with more details creating excitement and visually enhancing the page.

  2. Portrait thumbnails and landscape posters
    Some content is best suited to a cinematic touch, with portrait-style images creating an elegant, vertical display. In Accedo One, you can customize item forms for each container. While images are typically cropped automatically, using true portrait images can elevate your app’s aesthetic. Meanwhile, using landscape images for the video details page optimizes the horizontal space, maintaining a cinematic feel that complements the content.

  3. Highlight unique aspects of your content
    For TV series and movies, your container image could represent the cover art, while the poster could spotlight the lead actors or a key scene from the movie.

  4. Right focus
    Container images play a critical role in drawing the viewer's attention and encouraging clicks. To achieve this, use striking visuals such as recognizable logos, bold colors, and clear details that quickly communicate the content's essence. On the details page you may strive for a cleaner, less busy look as the title, description and other metadata are displayed on top of the image.

Handling images in Brightcove Videocloud and Accedo One

The naming of the images differs between Accedo One and OVPs. Each system has its own terminology: 

  • A "thumbnail" in Brightcove Videocloud is a "still" in Accedo One Editor and is the default choice in containers. You can also switch this to "poster" in the container option "image source".
  • A "poster" in Brightcove Videocloud is also named "poster" in Accedo One Editor and is the default choice on video details pages.
Poster and thumbnail image in Brightcove Videocloud.

Still and poster image in Accedo One Editor.

Additional tips for enhancing your video images
  1. Optimize image quality: Use high-resolution images to ensure clarity on all devices, especially for large-screen experiences. Review the upload ingest profiles in Brightcove Videocloud.
  2. Keep the  left side of your images uncluttered: Allow the metadata to be read without interfering with the image’s design and messaging. 
  3. Experiment with themes: Match the look and feel of similar or connected content for a cohesive look. 
  4. Test your choices: Try out different images and styles to see what resonates best with your audience. You can check in Accedo One Insights whether a specific video gained more engagement following an image update.
  5. Add a background image: The individual images may pop even better when placed on a supportive background image for your app. Upload in Configuration > Design > Brand > Background images.
  6. Text overlay or not? Experiment with displaying video titles over images in your containers to find what best suits your app’s design and user experience. Titles can provide context and clarity when needed, but in some cases, they may clutter the visual impact of the images. Define this per container in Accedo One Editor.
  7. Vary how you display your content: Give your pages a fresh and vivid look by mixing container styles. Use a Grid layout to present an extensive library of assets for easy browsing or a Carousel to spotlight a few select highlights with a swipe-friendly interface. For bold first impressions, opt for a Hero section. The List style allows you to pair captivating visuals with detailed descriptions. If you’ve got curated collections, the Tab View helps organize them neatly. For a striking visual showcase, try the Highlight Grid—perfect for featuring five standout assets in a sleek arrangement. Mix, match, and experiment to craft a vibrant user experience that keeps audiences engaged.
  8. Change item form and size: Even if you choose the Shelf container style exclusively, you can still create a visually engaging and varied user experience. Explore item forms Square, Portrait and Wide (Landscape is default). Accedo One autocrops the images for you. Size matters! Choose between Small and Large (Medium is default).
  9. Optimize for the platform: Mobile and TV displays offer very different viewing experiences. Mobile screens are designed for on-the-go, personal use, while TVs provide an immersive, shared experience. Make use of these differences and optimize per platform. Use the Form Factor Preview in the Editor to see how your design will appear on different devices before going live.

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