This is newsletter number 52! You know that means?
I managed to do something for a full year. 🤯 
Sending you a letter every single week.
Full of cool content.

While I know how important it is to have a newsletter I never though I could be this consistent with it.
Yet here we are.

So thank you for signing up, reading and clicking the links but now everything is going to change.

💛 Valentin

New on Orbit: Maqaroon Studio Tour

What’s changing?

Growing up, I always thought writing wasn’t my thing—something school made me believe. But curating content for you and distilling its essence has completely changed that. Now, writing is something I look forward to, plus it sharpened my eye for trends and patterns in the creator space.

But I’m not sure it is helping you.

The goal of this newsletter has always been to create the best resource for Solo Creators like you, who are ready to take the next step in their journey.

Which is why I call it
Your weekly guide to becoming a better creator 
But how can we make this statement truly come to life?

Instead of filling your inbox with more content, I want to give you something actionable—whether you’re procrastinating on publishing your first video or perfecting your content strategy. And I’m excited to make this newsletter a showcase for you and the whole community! Send me your questions, stories, and projects you’re proud of—let’s build a resource together that truly helps us all grow.

So, what do you think? Does this sound like something you’d look forward to each week?

…

Test Thumbnails Effectively

What can you learn from someone who worked on 3,000 thumbnails that have driven 7 billion+ views? Trent Haire shared this simple three-step process for effective A/B testing on YouTube.

1. First Test: Concept The concept is the most critical element to test. If a thumbnail concept doesn't resonate, tweaking minor details won’t matter. A concept change involves major alterations like adding or removing elements, or changing the composition. For a “How to ___” video, this could mean showing the outcome, using your face with floating text, or incorporating icons.

2. Second Test: Details Once you’ve nailed the concept, focus on refining the details that capture your audience's attention. Tweak text phrasing, facial expressions, or icon choices. These subtle changes can enhance a strong concept but won’t save a failing one.

3. Third Test: Accents Testing minor accents, like text color, often has minimal impact. Don’t waste time here if your video lacks views or you’re short on time. Instead, invest more in ideating compelling topics that truly drive engagement.

I’m putting this strategy to the test right now on the latest studio tour
and it already changed the conversation with Maqaroon from meh to yeah 😅

Fun stuff to click on

Watch

Fandabi Dozi made an intro with burnt wood

Maigomika compares the day of a YouTuber to a Blacksmith

Finzar gets advice from to the top YT editors

Read

Sarah Adam reveals how much Wix pays LinkeInfluencers

Try

Davinci Resolve 19 is out of beta

Castmagic is my ultimate production assistant*

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Become an Orbit Correspondent

Are you passionate about TikTok trends, Instagram changes, or Twitch streamers? Have you uncovered a hidden gem in your feed or have insights to share?

I want to hear from you!

Send me your articles, insights, and stories to start a collaboration
and let's craft the ultimate newsletter for creators, by creators. 🚀

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