How to become a UGC creator

Updated July 2026 · ~7 min read

Becoming a UGC creator is today one of the most accessible ways to turn a passion for video into work — without having to be an influencer. Here's a practical guide to get started.

What a UGC creator does

A UGC creator makes short videos that show a product in an authentic way. The brand buys the video as an asset and uses it on its own channels and in campaigns. The difference from an influencer is clear: you're not selling your audience, you're selling the content. We dig deeper here: UGC vs influencer marketing.

Do you need followers? No

Here's the good news: your follower count is irrelevant. Brands don't care how many you have, but how real your videos feel and how well they tell the product's story. You can start from zero.

The gear to get started

You need very little: a smartphone, a light (even a cheap ring light) and a lavalier microphone for audio. You'll find the full list in UGC video equipment.

Choose a niche

Specializing helps you stand out: beauty, food, fitness, tech, lifestyle. A clear niche makes your portfolio more convincing for brands in that sector.

Build your portfolio with spec videos

No clients yet? Create spec videos: pick 3-5 products you own and love and make UGC videos as if you were already getting paid. They prove you can shoot, edit and tell a story. Learn the technique in how to make a UGC video and nail your hooks.

How to find your first clients

• Sign up for platforms that connect creators and brands.
• Pitch directly to brands in your niche via email/DM, attaching your portfolio.
• Apply to UGC agencies and networks — for example, you can apply as a creator with us.

How much you can earn

Rates grow with experience, quality and the usage rights you grant. You'll find figures and detailed tiers in how much a UGC creator makes.

The first steps, in short

1. Get the basic kit.
2. Choose a niche.
3. Make 3-5 spec videos.
4. Build a simple portfolio.
5. Pitch to brands, platforms and networks.

The rest is practice: the more you shoot, the better you get. And if you're looking for a network to work with, take a look at the world of UGC video by UGC Video.

How to structure an effective portfolio

Your portfolio is your calling card. It should be easy to browse and show variety: include 4-6 videos that demonstrate different formats (testimonial, unboxing, problem-solution, tutorial) and, if possible, niches that are consistent with each other. You can collect it on a web page, in a PDF or in a profile on dedicated platforms. For each video, take care of the first impression: put your best work up front. Remember that brands want to see how you tell a product's story, not how many followers you have.

Starting rates: how to pitch them

At the beginning it's normal to start with modest rates (roughly €50-150 per video) to build experience and reviews. As your portfolio grows, raise your prices and clearly distinguish organic use from ads use (which is worth more). Always present a small "package" with what's included — number of videos, hook variants, delivery times — so the brand understands the value. You'll find a complete overview in how much a UGC creator makes.

Where to find work as a UGC creator

• UGC platforms: marketplaces that connect creators and brands with a steady stream of requests.
• Direct outreach: contact the brands you love with a short pitch and your portfolio.
• Professional social: show your work and get found.
• Agencies and networks: working with those who manage multiple clients ensures a flow of projects — you can apply as a creator with us.

Beginner mistakes

• Waiting until you have "lots of followers" before starting: you don't need them.
• A portfolio with only one type of video.
• Neglected audio and lighting.
• Slow or unprofessional deliveries.
• Not asking for feedback to improve.

Getting better over time

As in any craft, growth is gradual. Study the UGC videos that perform, analyze the winning hooks, and keep improving your editing and pacing. Every project is a chance to refine your style and speed: after a few months the difference is huge.

In short

To become a UGC creator you don't need followers but authentic content and a good portfolio. Get an essential kit, choose a niche, create spec videos and pitch yourself to brands, platforms and networks. With consistency, UGC can turn from a passion into a real source of income.

How to reach out to brands: a template

An effective message is short and concrete. Example: "Hi [brand], I'm [name], a UGC creator specialized in [niche]. I love [product] and I came up with a couple of video ideas (testimonial and problem-solution) that could work for your campaigns. Here's my portfolio: [link]. If you're up for it, I'd be happy to create a test piece." Always personalize: copy-paste messages are easy to spot and get ignored.

Handling revisions professionally

Brands often ask for changes. Make clear from the quote how many revisions are included (usually one or two) and take feedback without making it personal: the ability to deliver what the client wants, on time, is what leads to repeat collaborations. A reliable creator is worth more than one who is simply talented but hard to work with.

Building lasting relationships

The real income jump comes with recurring clients. After a good collaboration, propose a monthly package or stay in touch with fresh ideas. Retaining a few quality brands is more profitable and less tiring than constantly chasing new one-off clients.

Your first 90 days as a UGC creator

Having a plan for the first few months helps you avoid scattering your energy. In the first month focus on production: get the essential kit, choose a niche and make 4-6 polished spec videos that will become your portfolio. In the second month move to promotion: sign up for UGC platforms, contact brands in your niche with personalized messages and apply to networks. Aim to close your first collaborations, even at entry-level rates, to build experience and reviews. In the third month work on quality and positioning: analyze what worked, improve your hooks and editing, gradually raise your rates and start offering packages. The goal of the first 90 days isn't to maximize earnings, but to build the foundations — portfolio, method, first relationships — on which you'll then grow the business. Consistency in this early phase is what separates those who quit after a few weeks from those who turn UGC into a stable profession.

To dig into the two most practical aspects, read the guide on UGC video equipment and the one on how much a UGC creator makes. When you feel ready, you can apply as a creator with us.

Ready to get started?

Becoming a UGC creator is a path within reach of anyone willing to learn and stay consistent: you don't need followers or an influencer past, but the ability to tell a product's story authentically and to deliver professionally. Get the essential kit, choose your niche, build a portfolio with a few spec videos and start pitching. Your first jobs will mainly serve to gain experience; then, with quality and reliability, you'll be able to raise your rates and build stable collaborations. The best time to start is now: every video you shoot brings you closer to the next level.

Frequently asked questions