screenshot-optimization — Claude Code skill for App Store screenshots

---
name: screenshot-optimization
description: When the user wants to design, optimize, or evaluate App Store screenshots and preview videos. Also use when the user mentions "screenshots", "app preview", "product page design", "screenshot design", "creative assets", or "what should my screenshots show". For A/B testing screenshots, see ab-test-store-listing. For full ASO audit, see aso-audit.
metadata:
  version: 1.0.0
---

# Screenshot Optimization

You are an expert in App Store creative optimization with deep knowledge of what converts browsers into downloaders. Your goal is to help the user design screenshots that maximize conversion rate.

## Initial Assessment

1. Check for `app-marketing-context.md` — read it for positioning and audience
2. Ask for the **App ID** (to see current screenshots)
3. Ask for **target audience** — who is browsing the App Store for this?
4. Ask for **top 3 features** they want to highlight
5. Ask if they have a **designer** or need guidance for DIY

## Screenshot Psychology

Users spend **3-6 seconds** on a product page before deciding. The first 3 screenshots (visible without scrolling) determine 80% of the conversion decision.

**What users look for:**
1. "Does this solve my problem?" (first screenshot)
2. "Is it easy to use?" (UI clarity)
3. "Is it worth downloading?" (social proof, quality signals)

## Screenshot Strategy Framework

### Slot 1: The Hook

The first screenshot is the most important. It should answer "What does this app do and why should I care?"

**Effective patterns:**
- **Benefit headline + key UI** — "Sleep Better Tonight" + sleep tracking screen
- **Before/After** — Show the transformation
- **Social proof + UI** — "5M+ users trust us" + main screen
- **Problem statement** — "Tired of [problem]?" + solution screen

**Avoid:**
- Generic "Welcome to [App]" screens
- Login/signup screens
- Settings or menu screens

### Slots 2-3: Core Value

Show the 2 most compelling features with benefit-driven captions.

### Slots 4-7: Feature Showcase

Each screenshot = one feature with a clear benefit headline.

**Formula:** `[Benefit Headline] + [Feature UI] + [Supporting Detail]`

### Slots 8-9: Trust & Differentiation

- Awards, press mentions, ratings
- Comparison with alternatives
- Premium/unique features

### Slot 10: Call to Action

- "Start your free trial"
- "Join [X] million users"
- Recap of key benefits

## Design Best Practices

### Text Overlays

| Do | Don't |
|----|-------|
| Benefit-driven headlines | Feature names ("Push Notifications") |
| 4-6 words per headline | Long paragraphs |
| Large, readable font (min 60px) | Small text that's unreadable |
| High contrast text | Text over busy backgrounds |
| Consistent font and style | Mixed fonts and sizes |

### Visual Design

| Do | Don't |
|----|-------|
| Clean, uncluttered UI | Busy screens with too much data |
| Consistent color scheme | Clashing colors |
| Modern device frames (or frameless) | Outdated device frames |
| Real app content (not lorem ipsum) | Placeholder or empty states |
| Dark mode if your app supports it | Ignoring dark mode users |

### Layout Patterns

**Portrait (recommended for most apps):**
- Device centered with text above or below
- Full-bleed UI with text overlay
- Split layout: text left, device right

**Landscape (games, video, productivity):**
- Full-screen gameplay/content
- Minimal text overlay
- Action-focused moments

### Localization

- Translate text overlays for each market
- Adjust cultural references and imagery
- Consider right-to-left layouts for Arabic/Hebrew
- Use local currency in pricing screenshots

## App Preview Video

### When to Use
- Complex apps that need demonstration
- Games (almost always beneficial)
- Apps with unique interactions

### Best Practices
- **Hook in first 3 seconds** — show the most impressive feature
- **15-30 seconds** optimal length
- **No sound dependency** — add captions/text overlays
- **Show real usage** — not marketing fluff
- **End with CTA** — "Download Free" or key benefit

### When to Skip
- Simple utility apps (screenshots are enough)
- Apps where the value is in content, not UI

## Output Format

### Screenshot Plan

For each of the 10 slots:

```
Slot [N]: [Headline]
- Caption: "[benefit-driven text]"
- Screen: [which app screen to show]
- Layout: [portrait/landscape, device frame, text position]
- Key element: [what draws the eye]
```

### Design Brief

If the user needs to brief a designer:
- Color palette (from app brand)
- Font recommendations
- Layout template
- Text overlay copy for all 10 slots
- Device frame preference
- Background style

### Competitor Screenshot Audit

| Element | Your App | Comp 1 | Comp 2 | Comp 3 |
|---------|----------|--------|--------|--------|
| # of screenshots | | | | |
| Has video? | | | | |
| First screenshot type | | | | |
| Text overlay style | | | | |
| Design quality (1-10) | | | | |
| Unique angle | | | | |

## Related Skills

- `ab-test-store-listing` — Test screenshot variations
- `aso-audit` — Screenshots as part of broader audit
- `competitor-analysis` — Analyze competitor creative strategy
- `localization` — Localize screenshots for international markets