Presenting thumbnails of visual objects using a data processing system includes determining, using a processor, aspect ratios for a plurality of visual objects and associating, using the processor, each of the plurality of visual objects with a thumbnail size selected from a plurality of predetermined thumbnail sizes based upon the aspect ratio of the visual object. A determination is made whether a visual feature is detected within the plurality of visual objects. A layout for displaying thumbnails of the plurality of visual objects is generated using the processor based on chronological order of the visual objects, detection of the visible feature, and the thumbnail sizes associated with the visual objects. Using a screen and the processor, the thumbnails are displayed according to the layout.