How to Start UGC (Even If You Have No Following, No Experience, and No Fancy Equipment)
- Ryanna Mossman
- Nov 16
- 3 min read
If you’ve been scrolling TikTok or Instagram lately, you’ve probably seen the term UGC everywhere and wondered:
“Okay… but how do I actually start?”
(Probably while stirring mac + cheese, letting the dogs out, and trying to find your bunny who somehow ended up behind the couch again.)
UGC is one of the most accessible ways to make money online, and the best part?You don’t need a following.
You don’t need a studio.
You don’t need to be perfect.
You just need your phone, some strategy, and the willingness to film in real life… messy mom bun and all.
Let’s break it down.
⭐ 1. Understand What UGC Actually Is
UGC (User Generated Content) is content made by everyday people. NOT influencers that brands use for marketing.
You’re creating:
product demos
talking head videos
testimonials
lifestyle clips
unboxings
b-roll
…for brands to use on THEIR platforms, NOT yours.
It’s basically being paid to be a relatable human.
⭐ 2. Grab the Basic Gear You Need (It’s Minimal)
You DO NOT need a $2,000 camera.
You DO NOT need a lighting studio.
Here’s what I recommend
✔ A good phone tripod
👉 https://amzn.to/3X4U5g6
This keeps your shots stable and lets you film hands-free.
✔ A small ring light or soft light panel
You don’t need anything huge. Just something to brighten your face.
✔ A wireless mic (optional but levels you up instantly)
✔ A clean background prop
Blanket, plant, neutral wall, cutting board, coffee mug. Anything that looks clean and aesthetic. I have this set up and its been a game changer!
✔ CapCut (free!) for editing
Minimal investment, maximum quality.
⭐ 3. Build Your Simple Starter Portfolio
STOP overthinking this part.
Your first portfolio does NOT need to be perfect.
Record 4–6 sample videos using products you already own:
your favorite candle
hair mask
water bottle
wrinkle spray
pet product
kitchen item
beauty product
Choose things you love and would genuinely recommend.
If you want to level up your portfolio visuals, grab a few “camera ready” products:
These make your portfolio feel high end instantly.
⭐ 4. Learn How to Structure a UGC Video
The most effective videos usually follow this format:
HOOK (0–1 sec):
Something that stops someone mid scroll👉 “You need this if you’re constantly rushing in the morning.”👉 “I wasn’t ready for how well this works.”
VALUE (1–6 sec):
Show the product, say the problem it solves.
PROOF (6–15 sec):
Demo, before/after, instructions, results.
CTA (Optional, but highly recommended!):
“Linked below,” “Try this,” “Game changer,” etc.
⭐ 5. Create a Simple Portfolio Website
Use Canva, its FREE.
I got my first $3500 brand deal with it.
Brands care more about the content than the platform.
Include:
About you (short + friendly)
6–8 sample videos
Photo examples
Rates or “custom pricing available”
Contact form or email
⭐ 6. Start Pitching (Even With Zero Followers)
Most creators get their first paid opportunity through pitching, not inbounds.
Pitch to:
brands you already buy from
small businesses
pet brands
baby/mom brands
home/lifestyle companies
Amazon brands
brands using Meta ads
⭐ 7. Apply to UGC Marketplaces
You can land paid work from platforms like:
Billo
Amazon Creator Hub
Backstage
Insense
This is another great spot to add a supporting link:
⭐ 8. Treat It Like a Business
Even if this is your “chaotic mom side hustle,” treat it like a real business.
track deliverables
respond fast
organize your files
ask brands for feedback
create multiple versions of content
make reporting easy
Brands remember the creators who make their lives easier.
⭐ 9. Keep Learning + Improving
UGC changes every six minutes (not literally, but it feels like it).
Keep experimenting with:
hooks
storytelling
b-roll
lighting
editing
pacing
sound design
And stay consistent.
Consistency + small improvements = major results.
⭐ 10. You Don’t Need Perfection — You Need Practice
The secret to UGC isn’t:
fancy equipment
perfect lighting
zero pores
a marble kitchen
a curated lifestyle
It’s being relatable.
It’s being the real you. The one brands WANT because consumers TRUST her.
If you can do that? UGC will open doors for you.
Comments