Talking head style composition guest and hosts

Research and Ideation

Imagery Manipulation

Photo Retouching

Adobe Photoshop:

• Photo manipulation

• Color grading

• Upscaling

• Format conversion.

ChatGPT and YouTube

• Research and Inspiration

• Brainstorming

Social Media - X, Reddit, Discord, LinkedIn

• Feedback

• Inspiration

Focus on the guest and let the hosts be the second focal point, all done well to bring a sense of harmony and balance in the thumbnail. The thumbnail should appeal to the viewer and let's just stick to previous thumbnail strategy. The messaging and imagery should strictly be on topic, and the composition balanced and based on our branding style and demographics.

The thumbnail should reflect our values and our brand. Polish up every concept and send them over to the channel strategist for review.  Balance everything - color, lighting, contrast, imagery etc. 

After feedback loops, organize all source files and bundle them up in the final thumbnail files for delivery within the week.

I started by creating a 1280x720-pixel canvas, ensuring the design met YouTube's recommended dimensions. I used a resolution of 72 pixels per inch to optimize it for online viewing.

Step 2: Choosing the Background

To create an inviting and fresh atmosphere, I selected a gradient background transitioning from a warm pink hue on the left to a calming blue on the right. This gradient added visual interest and symbolized a dynamic yet relaxed tone, perfectly fitting the conversational style of the podcast.

Step 3: Incorporating the Hosts and Guest

The focal point of the thumbnail was the group shot of the hosts and guest. I carefully cut out the subjects using Photoshop’s “Select and Mask” tool, ensuring clean edges, especially around the hair and microphone areas. Once isolated, I enhanced their colors slightly with brightness, contrast, and vibrancy adjustments to make them stand out against the gradient backdrop.

Step 4: Highlighting the Text

Podcast Name ("The Imperfects"). I placed it in the top-left corner, keeping it small and elegant. Using a clean, sans-serif font in white ensured it remained legible yet unobtrusive.

Guest Name ("Jack Post"). I made Jack Post’s name larger, positioning it in the bottom-left corner for visibility. The white font contrasted nicely with the background, and the bold weight ensured it immediately caught the viewer's eye.

Step 5: Logo Placement

I added the podcast's logo in the bottom-right corner to maintain brand consistency. To ensure it blended seamlessly into the composition, I adjusted its size and opacity, allowing it to complement the design without overshadowing the subjects.

Step 6: Balancing the Composition

To balance the overall layout, I arranged the four figures in a slightly staggered manner, creating a natural flow that guided the viewer's gaze across the image. I used Photoshop’s "Dodge and Burn" tools to enhance the lighting and shadows, making sure the microphones and their faces stood out clearly.

Step 7: Revisions and Final Adjustments

After feedback loops and ensuring all the elements were in place, I zoomed out to evaluate the overall composition. I ensured there were no distractions, adjusted the alignment of text and images, and applied a soft vignette effect to subtly draw attention toward the center of the thumbnail.

Step 8: Exporting the File

I saved the final design as a high-resolution PNG file to ensure sharpness and quality when uploaded to YouTube. For delivery, I organized the source PSD file and ensured all layers were grouped and labeled neatly.

Image research

Podcast style thumbnail 

Subject/Photo Manipulation

Typography Development

Color Palette Development

Adobe Photoshop:

• Photo manipulation

• Color grading

• Ideation

• Format conversion.

ChatGPT and YouTube

• Research and Inspiration

• Brainstorming

Social Media

• Feedback

• Inspiration

The goal was to create a composition based on the message with a unique design approach. The messaging and imagery had to be strictly on topic, and the composition well balanced between messaging and aesthetics.

It has to be professional with the message weaving through the whole composition. "The final design should look polished, all elements cleanly cut out and blended seamlessly to complement the key message."

Make the caption and subjects the focal points of the thumbnail. Ensure the lighting and shadows are adjusted to highlight their features.

Save the final image as JPEG, organize the source files and bundle them up in the final thumbnail files for delivery within 1 day.

I began by reviewing the footage to understand the key points and overall message. This gave me a clear idea of what I needed to design to tell the story. After some research and inspiration, ideation and feedback, I was ready to roll. 

I set the dimensions to 1280x720 pixels to ensure the output would be of a high resolution. I also set the resolution to 72 pixels/inch since this was intended for web use. From the provided images of the guest, I picked clear and ones with more emotion. I uploaded them, cropped off the background and balanced the light and shadows on the figure.

To blend all elements together and bring in a sense of harmony, I used the channel's brand colors as a backdrop. I also fine-tuned the lighting and added highlights to increase contrast. I sent over three concepts with which they were satisfied. So I saved the final image as a PNG, bundled the source files and sent them over to the channel strategist. 

Podcast style thumbnail - full of emotion

Subject/Photo Manipulation

Typography Development

Color Palette Development

Logo Design

Imagery Development

Adobe Photoshop:

• Photo manipulation

• Color grading

• Upscaling

• Format conversion.

ChatGPT and YouTube

• Research and Inspiration

• Brainstorming

Social Media - X, Reddit, Discord, LinkedIn

• Feedback

• Inspiration

The goal was to create a template based on what is trending and working at the same time. Drawing inspiration from OTP channel, The Imperfects, and Theo Von, I was able to come up with something worth clicking. The placement of the text - episode number, caption, and brand name work well to encapsulate the composition without blocking anything important.  I wanted to create something that both a small channel and big channel can use. 

I like the mute green, the camaraderie-style placement of the host and guest, the bold logo and stylistic imagery. I wanted this to be timeless. 

I wanted high level professionalism with this one, with the message weaving through the whole composition. I wanted the template highly polished, all elements cleanly cut out and blended seamlessly to complement the mood and my vision.

This template is now on the market. If you wish to buy it, go here

Drawing inspiration from what has previously resonated with the viewers, I aimed to create a design that stays on-topic, with messaging and imagery carefully aligned with podcast-style thumbnail strategies. 

I wanted the thumbnail visually striking and professional, with the messaging seamlessly integrated into the overall design. Every imagery, text and color was selected and refined to complement the message and goal, all in a bid to create a polished final product for podcasters.

The caption and subjects are the centerpiece of the design, so I made sure to go for bold typography(Montserrat Bold) and clear images of the host and the guest, well positioned to grab attention at a glance. 

I made detailed adjustments with brand imagery including blurring, shadow balance, highlights and careful resizing to enhance the features of the composition. 

Step 1: Background Setup

I chose a blurred bookshelf background to convey a cozy, conversational vibe while blurring it enough not to distract from the main elements - I added a dark teal overlay with reduced opacity to enhance focus on the subjects and maintain a professional tone.

Step 2: Subject Selection and Placement

From the images of Adrien Brody and the host, I selected expressive shots that conveyed emotion and energy. I carefully removed their backgrounds using Photoshop's "Select and Mask" tool for precise cutouts. 

Step 3: Lighting and Shadows

To make the subjects pop, I fine-tuned the lighting and added subtle shadows around their edges. This helped integrate them seamlessly with the background. I also applied slight brightness and contrast adjustments to emphasize their facial expressions.

Step 4: Microphone and Logo Integration

I placed two microphones in the foreground to reinforce the podcast theme, giving the thumbnail depth and context. I enhanced the metallic texture of the microphones with highlights to make them look more realistic. For branding, I designed the "Epic Talks" logo and put it in the bottom-left corner. I tilted it slightly for a funky look and added a shadow to give it dimension.

Step 5: Text and Typography

Top-Left Corner: I used a bold sans-serif font for "Adrien Brody," ensuring it stood out clearly against the dark background. I chose Montserrat and Roboto font family for their good weight and readability.

Top-Right Corner: The yellow "EP.13" badge was added to indicate the episode number. The bold yellow with a blue backdrop ensured it was eye-catching and consistent with the theme.

Bottom Center: I placed the caption in bold, all-caps typography. I chose white to contrast against the dark background, with extra spacing between letters to improve readability.

Step 6: Gradient and Final Adjustments

To unify the design, I glazed over the composition with a hint of teal, which added a touch of sophistication.  I also did some final lighting adjustments and highlights to ensure all components blended seamlessly.

Step 7: Export and Delivery

I went on Twitter (X), LinkedIn and Reddit to get some feedback and see where I could make some improvements. After this, I prepared the template for the marketplace.

Podcast style thumbnail - with emotion

Photo Manipulation

Typography Development

Color Palette Development

Imagery Development

Adobe Photoshop:

• Photo manipulation

• Color grading

• Upscaling

• Format conversion.

ChatGPT and YouTube

• Research and Inspiration

• Brainstorming

Social Media - X, Reddit, Discord, LinkedIn

• Feedback

• Inspiration

The goal was to create a thumbnail based on the message, guest and NFL using trending styles and based on I came up with during sketching. Drawing inspiration from Steven Bartlett. I wanted the elements - caption, guest name, color, to encapsulate the vision of a simple, effective thumbnail. I wanted to create something that both a small channel and big channel can use. 

I wanted high level professionalism with this one, with the message standing out. I wanted it highly polished, all elements cleanly cut out and blended seamlessly to complement the mood and the channel's vision.

Step 1: Setting Up the Canvas

I began by creating a canvas with dimensions of 1280x720 pixels, the YouTube-recommended thumbnail size, and set the resolution to 72 pixels/inch for optimal web display.

Step 2: Background Design

I used NFL related elements to give the thumbnail an on-topic theme, with a professional and vibrant feel. To add depth, I incorporated subtle gradient effects, transitioning from a darker shade at the bottom to a lighter shade at the top. Deeper shadows were added under the captions so the text could stand out even more.

Step 3: Typography and Text Placement

I used bold, sans-serif typography for the caption with a combination of white and red highlights for contrast and readability. To emphasize the key message, I used uppercase text for the caption and added a slight dark shadow for added depth.

Below the main headline, I included the guest's name in clean, white, lowercase text to achieve some textual hierachy. This simple but sharp design ensures clarity and directs focus to the caption.

Step 4: Subject Integration

I selected the most expressive faces from the footage. I removed the backgrounds and upscaled them to have high-quality images of the host and guest.

To make the subjects stand out, I adjusted the lighting and shadows on their faces and clothes by increasing contrast. I also enhanced the image sharpness and vibrancy, ensuring it stood out.

Step 5: Visual Balance

I balanced the composition by aligning the text to the center and positioning the subjects on the edges. This layout creates a natural flow, directing the viewer’s eye from the guest to the headline to the host. I increased the spacing between elements to avoid clutter.

Step 6: Final Touches

I added a faint highlight around the subjects to create separation from the background, further enhancing the depth. Once satisfied with the design, I saved the final thumbnail in JPG format and sent it over to the client.

Podcast style thumbnail 

Subject/Photo Manipulation

Typography Development

Color Palette Development

Logo Design

Adobe Photoshop:

• Photo manipulation

• Color grading

• Upscaling

• Format conversion.

ChatGPT and YouTube

• Research and Inspiration

• Brainstorming

Social Media - X, Reddit, Discord, LinkedIn

• Feedback

• Inspiration

The combination of text and image were supposed to immediately inform viewers about the video's focus on acting, with Cillian Murphy as the central figure. I chose an expressive and thought-provoking image of Murphy to hint at the depth and quality of the video content, making it more engaging.

I also aimed to maintain a strong brand identity. I used a consistent style that matched other thumbnails on the channel, including similar fonts, colors, and layouts. The development of the logo was one of the objectives to help reinforce the channel's identity, making it more recognizable to viewers.

Increasing the click-through rate was the key objective. I created a visually engaging thumbnail that stood out among other videos in the feed. Murphy's thoughtful pose added an element of intrigue, sparking curiosity and encouraging clicks.

Ensuring the thumbnail was optimized for different devices was a priority. I made sure the text and key elements were legible and clear even on smaller screens, like mobile devices. High contrast between the text and background maintained readability across various screen sizes and resolutions.

Lastly, I considered SEO and relevance. By incorporating relevant keywords in the thumbnail text, such as the guest's name and 'acting',  I improved the video's searchability and relevance in YouTube's algorithm. The descriptive text complemented the video title, making it more likely to appear in related searches and recommendations.

I began by conceptualizing the overall look and feel. I considered the video’s content and the target audience to ensure the design would resonate with them. The focus was on making a strong first impression, I envisioned an evocative image of Cillian Murphy, as if he were in action. I sifted through several high-quality photos, looking for one that captured Murphy’s expression in a way that conveyed depth and intrigue. The goal was to choose an image that represented the video's content and also grabbed attention immediately. Once I had the image, I adjusted its placement to ensure it fit well within the thumbnail’s dimensions, emphasizing Murphy's facial expression.

I chose a bold, clear font, Roboto, for the title, "The Art of Acting," ensuring it was legible even at a glance. Positioning the text was crucial; I placed it where it would stand out without overshadowing the image. I used contrasting colors to make the text pop against the navy blue background, maintaining a balance that kept the thumbnail visually appealing and easy to read.

I designed the logo, as part of the project, and placed it in the top right corner, drawing inspiration from Chris Williams' style.  This helped in shaping up a professional, clean brand image for the channel.

Finally, I tested and reviewed the entire thumbnail to make sure it was optimized for different devices. I checked its readability and visual impact on smaller screens, adjusting elements as needed to ensure clarity. High contrast and clear fonts were essential for maintaining readability across various screen sizes.

Podcast style thumbnail 

Subject/Photo Manipulation

Typography Development

Color Palette Development

Logo Design

Adobe Photoshop:

• Photo manipulation

• Color grading

• Upscaling

• Format conversion.

ChatGPT and YouTube

• Research and Inspiration

• Brainstorming

Social Media - X, Reddit, Discord, LinkedIn

• Feedback

• Inspiration

The faces of the hosts had to do most of the talking before the video even played. The warm expressions invites in the viewer and sets them up for a conversation.  The lighting and shadows work together to create an intriguing, on-topic mood —letting the message come forward without distractions. Not just make the hosts look good; it was about making them look important for they are the anchor of the entire frame. So we had to sort through several pictures and alter some to get the right one.

The text, stretched to occupy more real estate so as to create a sense of balance in the composition. I made sure it would pop even on the tiniest screen, and the gradient backdrop was the canvas where the tension played out, where authority met minimalism. 

The microphones are a silent cue, telling the audience that this was a conversation that actually happened and they were being invited to. It tells the viewers they are in for something substantial, some deep conversation.

Everything about this thumbnail, from the imagery to caption is designed to stop a viewer mid-scroll and make them think, this is something I might need to take a look at.