81% of ecommerce marketers say visual UGC outperforms influencer or studio content (Nosto). That’s because real, authentic content connects best with customers.
You don’t need a big following to start making money. Most UGC creators earn $150–$300 per video, with top creators charging even more (PPC.io).
This guide shows you how to become a UGC creator from zero, land paid deals, and create standout content—step by step, no fluff.
What Is a UGC Creator (And What is UGC Content)?
If you've ever filmed a product review, shared an honest unboxing, or made a short “TikTok made me buy it” haul—congrats, you've basically created UGC.
UGC stands for user-generated content. A UGC content creator is someone who makes brand-friendly videos, reviews, or product demos that feel natural and relatable—even without a large audience.
UGC creators aren’t necessarily famous. Instead, we get paid to create content that feels raw, real, and relatable. Brands use it in ads, on social, or even on their websites.
I started because I was already posting about skincare I loved. Then I realized: brands want content that looks like it's made by everyday users—and they’re paying for it.
UGC content can be:
- A TikTok showing how you use a product
- A voiceover-style review or testimonial
- A simple iPhone video demoing a feature
- Even photos or reels that brands repost
The key? It looks native, not polished. No fancy sets, no followers required—just authenticity.
How Much Do UGC Creators Make in 2025?
Let’s be real: you’re probably wondering, “Is this actually worth my time?” Totally fair.
The short answer? Yes. You can absolutely make real money with UGC—whether you’re freelancing on the side or building it into a full-time gig.
Here’s a breakdown based on real creator rates:
- Beginner UGC creators: $100–$250 per video (even with zero followers!)
- Intermediate: $300–$500/video, especially if you deliver fast and well-lit content
- Experienced creators: $750+ per UGC set (especially if you offer bundles like 3 videos + 5 photos)
Some creators even land monthly retainers from brands that need constant content.
According to rates published by platforms like Trend.io, Billo, and real creator breakdowns on Reddit and Twitter, the average UGC creator makes around $1,200–$3,000/month part-time. Full-timers often earn $5K–$8K+, especially with repeat clients or bundled content packages.
And remember, you’re not just trading time for money. Every project builds your portfolio—so the more you create, the easier it is to charge more.
Why Brands Love UGC
Let’s talk about why brands are obsessed with UGC right now—and why that’s great news for us creators.
Unlike polished ad campaigns that cost tens of thousands and take weeks to produce, UGC is fast, affordable, and way more relatable. In fact, studies show that consumers trust UGC 9.8x more than traditional influencer content or ads. Why? Because it feels authentic—like a friend giving you a genuine recommendation.
Here’s why brands keep coming back for UGC:
- Higher engagement: Raw, relatable videos stop the scroll way more than glossy ads. People expect lo-fi on TikTok and Instagram Stories—so UGC blends right in.
- Lower production costs: No big crew, no studio rentals—just creators (like you) filming from home with a phone, ring light, and a solid mic.
- Faster turnaround: Brands can brief a UGC creator and get 3–5 video assets in a week. Try doing that with a traditional agency.
- Better performance in paid ads: Meta, TikTok, and YouTube ad managers all favor native-looking content. UGC consistently beats branded ads on CTR (click-through rate), watch time, and conversions.
And it’s not just small startups doing this. Huge names like Sephora, Nike, and Airbnb are investing heavily in UGC creators. It’s the new frontier of digital marketing—and the barrier to entry is shockingly low.
So yes, your iPhone + voice + real opinion = actual marketing gold.
How to Start UGC Content Creation(Even If You Have No Experience)
You don’t need fancy gear or followers to learn how to start UGC content creation—it all begins with simple prep and practice. But you do need to prepare. Brands today care less about follower count and more about authenticity, relatability, and production value. Here’s what you should get in place before landing your first UGC gig:
1. Understand What UGC Really Is
Before you start filming anything, understand what brands are hiring you for. UGC is not a sponsored post on your personal account. It’s content you create for the brand to use in their own ads or social channels—think testimonials, demos, unboxings, or how-tos that feel organic, not scripted.
✅ Pro tip: Scroll through TikTok Spark Ads or Instagram Reels ads—you’ll notice most are UGC-style.
2. Define Your Strengths and Style
Are you more natural on camera or behind it? Can you speak confidently, or would you prefer to shoot B-roll and voiceover? UGC comes in many formats, so start with what feels easiest:
- Talking head videos
- Voiceovers over lifestyle footage
- Product tutorials or demos
- POV shots or reaction-style content
Pick one or two styles you feel comfortable with. You’ll expand later.
3. Set Up a Minimal Creator Toolkit
You don’t need expensive gear—but your video and audio should be clear. Here’s what helps:
Lighting: Natural light is free, but unpredictable. A portable LED helps maintain consistency even on cloudy days or in late-night shoots.
Camera: Your smartphone is fine, but if you want clean 4K video with optical zoom, the NearStream VM20 is a plug-and-play upgrade that works great for unboxings or talking-head shots.
Audio: Bad audio can ruin a good take. If you’re serious, use a quiet space, speak close to the mic, and avoid noisy backgrounds.
Backdrop: Your bedroom wall may work, but clutter can distract. A clean green screen or neutral backdrop gives your content a professional polish. The NearStream VK40 folds up easily and works great with CapCut, OBS, and other editing tools.
4. Build Basic On-Camera Confidence
No one feels “camera-ready” at first. Practice by recording 30-second clips talking about everyday things—a favorite snack, your morning routine, etc. This helps you:
- Learn how you look and sound on camera
- Improve delivery and tone
- Get used to eye contact with the lens
You don’t have to be perfect—you just need to come off as genuine.
5. Learn Simple Editing (No Fancy Effects Needed)
Brands aren’t looking for movie trailers—they want snackable, raw-feeling content that matches native TikTok or Instagram aesthetics. Learn the basics of:
- Cutting dead space and filler
- Adding captions (auto tools like CapCut or Descript work well)
- Light color and audio correction
Editing on your phone is totally fine when starting out.
How to Become a UGC Creator in 2025 and Get Paid for Brand Content
You’ve practiced your video skills, created some sample content, and set up your gear—now it’s time to get paid. Here’s exactly how to go from “new creator” to “booked and busy.”
1. Create a UGC Portfolio (Without Needing Brand Deals)
You don’t need real paid work to show off your skills. Start by making 3–5 mock videos using products you already own—skincare, kitchen gadgets, wellness items, etc. Each video should highlight:
- Your voice/personality
- Different content styles (demo, testimonial, unboxing, etc.)
- Clear video + audio quality
- Basic editing and captions
📦 Example: Record a 30-second video about your favorite coffee mug. Talk about how it keeps your drink warm, how it fits your routine, and add a casual “Would totally buy this again” ending.
Once you’ve got a few clips, upload them to:
- A free Notion or Canva landing page
- Google Drive folder with public links
- Your own site (if you have one)
Name the folder clearly: [Your Name] UGC Portfolio
2. Create a Rate Sheet (And Know What to Charge)
Even if you’re just starting out, you need to look professional. Build a simple rate card with 2–3 packages. Example:
- Basic UGC Package – $150
• 1 short-form video (up to 60s)
• Hook + body + call to action
• Raw and edited version delivered
- Deluxe Package – $275
• 2 short-form videos
• Product demo + testimonial
• Up to 2 revisions
- Add-ons:
- Voiceover Only: $75
- Raw Footage: $50
Just Starting Out? Try Product-for-Content Deals
No paid gigs yet? That’s okay. Many new UGC creators begin with product exchange deals—brands send you a product, and you create content in return. It’s a great way to:
- Build your portfolio with real products
- Practice with hands-on content
- Gain early brand experience
📝 Add a line in your rate sheet like:
“Open to product exchange for select early collaborations—ask for details.”
📌 Pro tip: Treat these like paid jobs. Great content = future paid deals.
3. Find UGC Creator Jobs (Even If You Have 0 Followers)
You don’t need to wait for brands to find you. There are 3 main ways to land your first gigs:
A. Apply on UGC Creator Platforms
These are marketplaces where brands post gigs and creators can pitch:
- Billo (great for beginners)
- JoinBrands
- Trend.io
- UGC Shop
- Influee
Sign up, fill out your profile, and start applying. Many of these platforms offer $50–$200 starter gigs.
B. Cold Pitch to Brands
Make a list of brands you already use—small eCom companies, Etsy shops, Amazon sellers. Reach out via DM or email with:
- A quick intro
- Link to your portfolio
- Offer to create a free or discounted trial video
📬 Example DM:
“Hey [Brand], I’m a UGC creator and a huge fan of your [product]. I’d love to create a short-form video showing how I use it—would you be open to a sample video? Here’s my portfolio: [link]”
C. Use Freelance Sites
You can also find UGC-related gigs on:
- Fiverr (create a UGC gig)
- Upwork (search “UGC video”)
- PeoplePerHour
4. Deliver Like a Pro
Once you land your first gig, how you deliver is just as important as how you create. Here’s how to keep clients coming back:
- Always meet your deadline (or beat it)
- Include both edited and raw versions if possible
- Use Google Drive or Dropbox for clean delivery
- Ask if they need revisions (but limit how many you offer)
💼 Bonus tip: Keep everything organized in a simple tracking sheet with columns like:
Brand | Video Type | Deadline | Rate | Status |
GlowSkincare | Testimonial | Aug 10 | $150 | Delivered |
5. Upsell and Build Repeat Clients
Once a brand loves your work, don’t stop there. Ask:
- “Would you like another version in vertical format?”
- “Want a holiday-themed edit?”
- “Need captions or different aspect ratios for ads?”
Over time, some UGC creators build monthly retainer packages offering 4–8 videos a month for a fixed price.
6. Post Your UGC (Even If It’s Not Sponsored)
To build credibility, post your UGC-style content on your own TikTok or Instagram. Even if it wasn’t a paid gig, it:
- Shows your face and energy
- Acts as social proof
- Attracts new brands
Use hashtags like: #ugccontentcreator #ugccreatorswanted #contentcreatorforbrands to get discovered.
💡 You can also tag brands in your “free” mock content. Many may repost—or even reach out for a deal.
UGC Gear Tips for Better Content (Without a Studio)
You don’t need a fancy studio or thousand-dollar gear to start creating scroll-stopping UGC. But good lighting, clean audio, and a steady frame can make a huge difference—especially when brands are deciding who to hire again.
Here’s a simple gear setup that works for most creators working from home (or even a bedroom):
💡 Lighting: Natural Light + Portable LED
If you’re shooting during the day, face a window—it’s the easiest way to get soft, flattering light. For cloudy days or nighttime filming, a compact LED panel will keep your shots looking pro.
Budget Tip: A small LED ring light (with adjustable color temperature) is a great start.
🎙️ Audio: Lavalier or USB Mic
Your phone’s mic can work in quiet rooms, but for talking videos, clean audio is non-negotiable.
- For mobile: clip-on lav mics like the Rode SmartLav+ or NearStream AW25T are affordable and sound crisp.
- For computer setups: a USB mic like the NearStream AM25X or Blue Yeti is great for voiceovers, testimonials, or screen-recorded tutorials.
📱 Camera: Your Phone Is Enough
Modern smartphones shoot amazing video. Just make sure:
- You clean the lens
- Shoot in 1080p or 4K
- Use a tripod or stand to avoid shaky footage
If you’re filming product shots or need zoom flexibility, a compact streaming camera like the NearStream VM20 can give you a crisp, DSLR-like look with plug-and-play simplicity.
🟩 Bonus: Background Control
Don’t want to show your messy room? Use a plain wall, curtain, or a collapsible green screen. The NearStream Green Screen Kit is foldable and easy to store—and it works great with OBS background removal or TikTok greenscreen effects.
Ready to get started? Whether you’re wondering what a UGC creator is or trying to figure out how to start UGC content, the steps above will get you moving.
Mistakes New UGC Creators Make (And How to Avoid Them)
🚫 Filming in cluttered spaces
✅ Use clean backgrounds, natural light, or a VK40 green screen.
🚫 Using confusing or overly scripted language
✅ Keep it natural and casual—just talk like you would to a friend.
🚫 Ignoring what the brand wants
✅ Ask for a creative brief, or at least check their website/tone before you film.
🚫 Over-editing or Using Inconsistent Styles: transitions, filters, or inconsistent captions can look messy—especially when the goal is clean, natural product content.
✅ Keep editing light and purposeful. Use clear captions (if needed), soft transitions, and let the message shine. A clean edit shows confidence.
🚫 Skipping Revisions or Ignoring Feedback: One of the fastest ways to not get rehired is to ignore a brand’s requested changes—or take it personally.
✅ Treat feedback as collaboration, not criticism. Most brands just want small tweaks. Be responsive, revise fast, and show that you’re easy to work with. That’s what turns a one-time deal into long-term paid work.
FAQs About Becoming a UGC Creator
Q: Do I need a big following to be a UGC content creator? A: Nope. UGC isn’t about your audience—it’s about your content quality.
Q: How do I get paid as a UGC creator? A: Brands usually pay via PayPal, Stripe, or bank transfer after approving your content. Use a contract to stay protected.
Q: Do I need to show my face? A: Not always. You can do voiceovers, hand demos, or aesthetic b-rolls too.
Q: Can I reuse the same video for different brands? A: Usually no. Each video is made specifically for that brand and should reflect their tone and product.
Q: Is this saturated? A: There are more brands than creators. If your content is clean and engaging, there’s space for you.
Q: What kind of brands work with UGC creators?
A: All kinds—from skincare and fashion to SaaS tools and kitchen gadgets. Small startups and DTC brands especially rely on UGC to build trust.
Q: How long does it take to land my first UGC deal?
A: It varies, but with a solid portfolio and active pitching, many beginners land their first deal within 2–4 weeks. Focus on consistency, not perfection.
