In short: UGC creators film videos for brands that feel like genuine recommendations and mostly run as ads. You don’t need a big following, you need good videos, a small portfolio and the courage to pitch brands.
What UGC creators actually do
The brand sends you a product and a brief, and you film the video. It then runs on the brand’s channels, mostly as an ad, not on your profile. That is why your reach doesn’t matter, the video does. You can read more about how brands use UGC in What is UGC?
What you need to start
- A phoneenough to start, with good light and clear sound.
- Your nichetopics where you are credible, for example beauty, travel, fitness or apps.
- A small portfoliothree to five sample videos say more than any description.
- A few toolsClaude for scripts, Canva for your portfolio.
Five steps to your first job
- Define your niche and strengths: what can you do that not everyone can? The Price Check helps.
- Film sample videos: with products you already have at home, in the formats brands book.
- Build your portfolio: a page or PDF with your videos, your niche and your contact details.
- Pitch brands: short and personal, with a link to your portfolio and an idea for their product.
- Clarify scope and price: usage rights, B-roll, script and editing. How to find your price is explained in How much does a UGC video cost?
Self-employed and official
As soon as you earn money with UGC, you are self-employed: you write invoices and register your activity with the tax office. The exact rules depend on your country and your situation, so check with your tax office or a tax advisor. I am not a tax advisor and this is not tax advice.
Getting jobs through agencies
Besides your own clients, you can get projects through agencies. At OUT OF OFFICE Society you can apply with a short intro video. If a client project fits you, we get in touch.
Your next step
Free guideThe Price CheckKnow in 10 minutes where you can charge more. And where you probably can’t.ApplyBecome a creator with OUT OF OFFICE SocietyApply with a short intro video for client projects.1:1 consulting1:1 session with me50 minutes on rates, positioning and negotiating. Online, flexible dates.NewsletterMy newsletterTips from the creator and AI world, every two weeks.FAQ
Do I need lots of followers to become a UGC creator?
No. UGC videos run on the brand’s channels, not on your profile. What counts is the video, not your reach.
What equipment do I need?
Your phone is enough to start. Good light and clear sound matter most; a small clip-on microphone helps.
How do I land my first job?
With three to five sample videos in your portfolio, you pitch brands that fit your niche. You can also apply to agencies that book creators for client projects.