Featured · Graphic Design
A clear focal point for a clue-heavy thumbnail.
An investigation thumbnail built around a seated figure, with clues around him and the presenter to one side.
- Title
- El Macho Investigation
- Year
- 2026
- Role
- Thumbnail design and campaign artwork
- Format
- YouTube investigation campaign
- Client
- Not listed
- Campaign
- Investigative editorial

What went into it
Start with the figure, then let the eye follow the clues.
The job
Several clues needed to fit into one image without losing the main subject.
Audience
Long-form documentary and investigation viewers.
Known limits
I don’t have the original brief or performance figures for this project.
Key decisions
Why it looks this way.
How the main subject and supporting images share the frame.
- 01
The main subject
The seated figure is larger and more brightly lit than the surrounding details.
- 02
Clues around the edges
Money and other objects add context around the central figure.
- 03
A place for the presenter
The presenter sits to one side, leaving space for the main scene.
Contribution
My part
- Multi-image compositing
- Subject extraction
- Lighting match
- Headline hierarchy
Deliverables
Files delivered
- YouTube thumbnail
- Campaign artwork
Result
Final result
- Final artwork

