Hook first frame
The literal first visual frame of a short-form video.
The first frame acts as the Shorts/TikTok equivalent of a thumbnail.
Dark, dim, or low-contrast first frames depress scroll-stop rate even if the rest of the video is strong.
Adding 200ms of static text overlay on the first frame consistently lifts scroll-stop rate.
Why it matters
Designing the first frame deliberately is one of the fastest ways to lift short-form reach.
How to improve it
- 01Audit first frames at 100x100px.
- 02Add a text overlay on the first 200ms.
- 03Avoid dark or static-talking-head first frames.
See your own hook first frame in seconds.
Paste any YouTube, Shorts or TikTok link and our analyzer will surface the metric, the curve, and the move that lifts it next.
Related terms
Percent of feed impressions that stop scrolling long enough to register the video.
The cognitive triggers that make a thumbnail feel clickable before the title is even read.
The opening 0–3 second window where short-form viewers decide to stay or swipe.