On the surface, this doesn’t seem like a lot. It’s just so simple and obvious.
But this was all extremely intentional (and incredibly effective).
Let me explain…
3 Elements
You might have heard of the 3 Element Rule before.
It basically means limiting your thumbnails to 3 elements to keep them simple.
This is crucial because of how small thumbnails are and how little time people look at them.
This is the perfect execution of the 3 Element Rule. It’s literally 3 elements...
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Ryan
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Penny
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7 Days
Nothing else. No distractions.
Something you can easily consume and understand, which is perfect for a thumbnail.
Keep your thumbnails simple.
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Idea → Thumbnail
While keeping your thumbnails extremely simple is effective, you still have to make sure you capture your idea in an interesting way.
If not, potential just won't know what your video is about.
Ryan does this effectively by identifying the main parts of his idea in their simplest form.
This video is about HIM, surviving 7 DAYS, with only a PENNY.
And capturing those 3 elements in very simple, recognisable ways.
Make sure your thumbnail clearly captures your idea.
Colour
While the grass background might seem pointless, it’s actually adding a lot to the thumbnail.
It gives the thumbnail some colour that catches the viewers eye, as well as creating some separation and emphasis to the main elements that are going to get the click.
You just have to look at a version without it to see the difference.
Colour is important. Contrast is even more important.
Want more?
These techniques (along with plenty more) are all explained in the Digital Bundle.
The Bundle is everything you need to make effective thumbnails and includes:
1. Digital Book
82 pages explaining exactly how to make effective thumbnails.
2. Thumbnail Worksheet
Outlines how to turn your ideas into clickable concepts.
3. Thumbnail Checklist
Check every title and thumbnail do what they need to do.
Interested? Check it out.