Where to Buy Lower Thirds - Tips and Resources

Lower thirds are a crucial element in video production, providing viewers with important information such as names, dates, and locations. While you can create your own lower thirds in-house, there are also numerous options for purchasing pre-designed and pre-made lower thirds that can enhance and streamline your production process. In this article, we’ll explore the different options available and offer tips for selecting the best lower thirds for your needs.

Creating Lower Thirds in-House

Video producers who are comfortable with digital editing can create their own lower thirds using industry-standard software. Popular options include Adobe After Effects, Final Cut Pro, and iMovie. In-house creation allows for a high degree of customization and ensures that the lower thirds align perfectly with the rest of the video.

Example: An Example of In-House Lower Thirds

Purchasing Pre-Made Lower Thirds

For those who prefer to have pre-made lower thirds without the hassle of creating them in-house, several stock materials providers offer a wide range of pre-designed options. These can be a cost-effective and time-saving solution. Here are some notable providers and resources:

Stock Video Websites

Stock video websites like Shutterstock, iStock, and Pond5 offer a diverse selection of lower thirds, ranging from simple text overlays to complex infographics. These can be purchased individually or in bulk packages, and many come with extended licensing options, which can be especially useful for large-scale productions.

Shutterstock: Shutterstock Lower Thirds

iStock: iStock Lower Thirds

Pond5: Pond5 Lower Thirds

Template Websites

Platforms like and Themeforest offer customizable templates that can be easily integrated into existing projects. These templates often come with editable graphics, making it easy to add your own text and branding. They are especially useful for businesses and organizations that need a consistent look across multiple videos.

Lower Third Templates

Themeforest: Themeforest Lower Thirds

DIY Lower Thirds

For those who want to create their own lower thirds but prefer a pre-made design, DIY options are a great alternative. Sites like Canva and Adobe Spark offer drag-and-drop tools and pre-made designs that can be easily customized. This approach allows for quick and easy creation of lower thirds that match the overall aesthetic of your videos.

Canva: Canva Lower Thirds

Adobe Spark: Adobe Spark Lower Thirds

Selecting the Best Lower Thirds

When selecting lower thirds, consider the following factors:

Style and Design: Choose a design that complements your video’s aesthetic and branding. Text Readability: Ensure that the text is legible and easy to read. Consider font size, color contrast, and spacing. Customizability: Look for options that can be easily edited and personalized to fit your specific requirements. Duration: Consider the length of time you need the lower third to be visible in your video. Budget: Determine your budget for purchasing or creating lower thirds and select options that fit within it.

By considering these factors, you can ensure that your lower thirds are not only functional but also visually appealing and consistent with your brand identity.

Conclusion

Whether you choose to create your own lower thirds in-house, purchase pre-made options from stock materials providers, or opt for DIY templates, there are plenty of options available. By evaluating your needs and considering the key factors listed above, you can select the best lower thirds for your video production. This will help enhance the professional appearance of your videos and provide your audience with valuable information in a clear and engaging way.