UGC (User-Generated Content) refers to videos, photos, reviews, or any type of content created by real users (not necessarily influencers) that brands use in their marketing.
The twist? As a UGC creator, you’re paid by brands to create this content — not to post it on your own account, but to provide it for their use in ads, social media, or websites.
It’s not about followers, it’s about content quality and authenticity.
💰 How to Make Money with UGC
1. Understand What Brands Are Looking For
Brands want:
- Realistic, relatable, non-polished content
- Unboxing videos, product demos, testimonials, how-tos
- Trust-building content that feels like a recommendation from a friend
You don’t need a professional camera or big setup. Smartphone-quality content is often preferred!
2. Build a Portfolio
You need to showcase your content style even before landing paid gigs. Here’s how:
- Create 5–10 mock UGC samples with products you already own
- Ex: a skincare routine with your favorite moisturizer
- Ex: a 30-second voiceover testimonial about your headphones
- Edit them simply (use CapCut, InShot, or Canva)
- Upload them to a portfolio platform or a Google Drive link
- Optional: Create a UGC-dedicated Instagram or TikTok
3. Set Your Rates
UGC rates vary depending on experience, complexity, and usage rights. Here’s a rough guide:
- 1 UGC video (15–60 sec): $100–$300
- 3-video package: $250–$700
- Photos only: $25–$150 per image
- Monthly retainers: Some creators earn $1K–$5K/month creating content for a brand regularly
Be sure to charge for usage rights if a brand wants to run your video as a paid ad (often +100% of base rate).
4. Where to Find UGC Gigs
Direct Outreach:
- Pitch brands via email or DM
- Find smaller or new brands that need content and may not have influencers yet
- Use phrases like: “Hi! I love your brand and would love to create authentic UGC content you can use in your social media or ads. Here’s my portfolio.”
UGC Platforms:
- Billo – Quick-turnaround UGC jobs
- Trend.io
- JoinBrands
- Insense
- Influencity
- Fiverr – Create a UGC gig
- Upwork – Look for UGC-related listings
LinkedIn & Twitter:
Search for keywords like “UGC creator,” “content creator,” or “video testimonials” to find new opportunities.
5. Grow with Testimonials & Case Studies
Once you get a few gigs:
- Ask the brand for feedback
- Track performance metrics if available (engagement, clicks)
- Build case studies to show the value of your content
This builds credibility and lets you increase your rates over time.
🚀 Tips to Succeed as a UGC Creator
- Be professional: Meet deadlines, follow briefs, and respond to emails promptly
- Study UGC ads: Look at what’s working on TikTok, Instagram, or Facebook Ads Library
- Niche down: If you consistently create content in a category (like skincare, wellness, tech), you’ll attract brands faster
- Batch content: Record multiple videos in one shoot to offer packages and work efficiently
- Always ask about usage: If a brand wants to use your content in paid ads, be sure you’re paid accordingly
🔁 Can You Do UGC Without Showing Your Face?
Yes! Many brands also hire:
- Hands-only creators (for demos, unboxings)
- Voiceover-only videos
- Product photography or flat lays
If you’re shy on camera, you can still thrive by finding your format.
📱 UGC is Great for:
- Stay-at-home professionals
- Aspiring creators who want to monetize without being “influencers”
- Anyone who loves product reviews, social media, or content creation
Even just 1–2 UGC clients per month can turn into a solid side income or full-time business.
UGC isn’t just a trend — it’s a new form of creative freelance work that’s here to stay. You don’t need followers, fame, or fancy gear. You just need to be authentic, reliable, and willing to learn.
If you can create relatable content and communicate a product’s value naturally, you can get paid by brands — over and over again.
Would you link to learn more about how to earn money with UGC? Here you find the best course on digital marketing, start today!
English 
Portuguese