YouTube Thumbnail Designer for Internet Mystery & ARG Mini-Documentary Channel

We are looking for a talented, creative YouTube Thumbnail Artist to design high-converting, eye-catching thumbnails for an Internet mystery and ARG mini-documentary channel. Our content dives deep into eerie web rabbit holes, obscure ARGs, unsolved digital mysteries, and creepy internet lore. We need a visual designer who knows how to capture intrigue, suspense, and curiosity in a single visual image while maintaining strong YouTube visual standards (high contrast, clear subject focus, readable mobile scaling). Key Responsibilities: • Create 1–3 thumbnail concepts per video based on video scripts, titles, or raw assets provided. • Design high-resolution (1920x1080) thumbnails optimized for both desktop and mobile screens. • Utilize photo manipulation, lighting adjustments, color grading, and typography to evoke mystery, tension, or curiosity. • Iterate based on feedback and performance data (A/B testing CTR results). Requirements • Proven YouTube Portfolio: Experience designing thumbnails with a demonstrated understanding of high CTR principles. • Mastery of Design Tools: Proficiency in Photoshop, Illustrator, or equivalent professional design software. • Genre Affinity: Familiarity with the aesthetic of story-driven/documentary YouTube channels (e.g., NEXPO, Barely Sociable, Lemmino, Disrupt, Wendigoon). • Speed & Reliability: Ability to deliver high-quality assets within a 24–48 hour turn-around time once provided with brief/assets. Preferred Qualifications: • Strong skill in visual storytelling, photo manipulation, lighting/shadow composition, and subtle surreal elements. • Knowledge of YouTube A/B testing tools (e.g., TubeBuddy, VidIQ, or YouTube’s native thumbnail testing).