How to Become a UGC Creator: A Simple 6-Step Guide for Beginners

User-generated content (UGC) is changing the way brands connect with people, and the best part? You don’t need a massive following to start creating content that matters. If you love filming, taking photos, or just sharing your honest thoughts in creative ways, becoming a UGC creator could be your next move.

Honestly, I’ve been right where you are—Googling “how to start UGC” and ending up more confused than when I started. Every guide felt either too vague or too overwhelming. That’s why I decided to simplify the whole thing. I pulled together the exact steps I’ve personally been following into one clear, beginner-friendly blueprint.

So if you’re wondering how to become a UGC Creator or how this all really works, you’re in the right place. Let’s begin!

Step 1: Learn and Understand What UGC Really Is

Before you start filming your morning matcha or snapping dreamy product shots, it’s super important to understand what user-generated content (UGC) actually is—and what it isn’t. The UGC space is buzzing right now, but with that excitement also comes confusion. So let’s clear it up in a chill, no-fluff way.

What Is UGC?

At its core, UGC is content created by real people (like you and me) that brands use to promote their products or services. This could be anything from a casual unboxing video, a voiceover showing how you use a product, or a photo that looks like it came from your camera roll, and not a marketing agency!

The goal? Relatability and trust.

Brands are shifting away from polished ads and toward content that feels authentic. That’s where UGC creators come in. You’re not selling—you’re storytelling, sharing honest experiences that help potential customers feel connected.

UGC vs. Influencers: What’s the Difference?

This part trips a lot of people up, so let’s break it down:

• Influencers build their own audience and promote products on their own platforms. Their value often comes from their reach and influence over their followers. 

• UGC creators, on the other hand, create content that brands post on their channels (ads, websites, social media). You don’t need a big following. You just need creativity, intention, and the ability to make content that speaks to the brand’s ideal customer.

So yes, you can be a full-time UGC creator without ever becoming an influencer! Total relief, right?

How Do UGC Creators Make Money?

Here’s where it gets exciting. There are a few ways UGC creators earn income, and most creators use a mix of them:

Paid brand collaborations:

A brand hires you to create specific videos or photos they’ll use for marketing (often ads).

Content licensing:

You retain rights to your content, but brands pay for permission to use it for a set time period.

Ad usage fees:

This is when a brand uses your video in paid ads. You charge based on how long or where they’ll run the ad.

UGC platforms and marketplaces:

Some websites (like Fiverr, Upwork, or UGC-specific platforms) connect you with brands looking for content creators.

Understanding all these basics is the first real step in learning how to become a UGC creator the right way, without the overwhelm.

PRO TIP – Don’t stress about monetizing from day one. Focus first on building your portfolio, getting confident with your style, and learning what kind of content feels natural to you. The rest will come.

Step 3: Establish Your Online Presence

Okay, here’s the thing: you don’t need to be Insta-famous or TikTok-viral to be a UGC creator. But having an online presence that looks polished, intentional, and you? That’s what helps brands take you seriously.

Think of it like your digital storefront—it’s where potential clients (and curious scrollers) land to see what you’re all about. It doesn’t need to be perfect. It just needs to reflect your vibe and showcase your creative potential.

Create Dedicated UGC Social Media Accounts

If you haven’t already, now’s the time to set up your UGC-specific accounts. This helps you keep things separate from your personal life and makes it easier for brands to see your work in one clean space.

Focus on the platforms where you naturally enjoy hanging out and creating:

• Instagram – Great for portfolio-like grids, reels, and calm aesthetic content

• TikTok – Ideal for showing your creativity, transitions, and behind-the-scenes

• X/Twitter – A more conversational space to share thoughts, connect with other creators, and land unexpected collabs

You don’t have to be on every platform. Start with one or two that feel manageable, and grow from there.

Optimize Your Bio

Your bio is precious real estate. Let people know exactly what you do in just a few words—this helps brands (and other creators) know how to engage with you.

Include:

• What you do: “UGC Creator | Niche”

• Who you help: “Helping brands connect with their audience through real, relatable content”

• A call to action: “Open to collabs 💌 DM or email to work together”

Bonus points for a clean profile picture and a link in bio to your portfolio or a Linktree-style page with your contact info.

Start Posting Content (Even If You’re Just Starting Out)

Share samples of UGC content that reflect your niche and style—this helps brands quickly see your potential and reinforces your journey in how to become a UGC creator.

You don’t need paid brand deals to start sharing UGC-style content. In fact, mock content (aka content you create on your own using products you already own) is a great way to show your skills and build trust.

Some ideas to start with:

• A product you genuinely use and love

• A day-in-the-life or morning routine that features a brand

• Simple unboxing or “how I use this” style videos

• Still photos or carousel posts that feel branded but natural

Think of it as your practice ground. These posts build your confidence and your portfolio at the same time.

Engage With the UGC Community

One of the best parts about becoming a UGC creator? The community. Creators are out here sharing tips, trends, wins, and lessons—and being part of those conversations can really help you grow.

Ways to get involved:

• Follow other UGC creators whose style inspires you

• Leave thoughtful comments and reply to stories or tweets

• Share your process, your struggles, or even small wins—it’s all relatable

• Save posts that resonate so you can come back to them for inspo

You never know who’s watching—and the more you show up as your genuine self, the more connections (and opportunities) you’ll attract.

Your online presence doesn’t need to be flashy or perfectly curated. It just needs to feel real, intentional, and aligned with the kind of work you want to create.

Step 5: Market Yourself and Find Clients

Alright, your portfolio is looking fresh. You’re ready. Now comes the exciting (and slightly nerve-wracking) part—getting your first paid UGC gigs.

This is where your confidence and consistency start to pay off. The truth? You don’t need to wait for brands to magically find you. You can start the conversation, show your value, and open the door to opportunities. Here’s how to make it happen, step by step:

Pitch to Brands (Yes, Even If You’re New)

Reaching out to brands is a key turning point in how to become a UGC creator who actually gets paid, not just one who creates for practice.

Don’t overthink it—brands want to work with creators who can help them connect with their audience in a genuine way. That’s you.

Here’s what to include in a simple, effective pitch email or DM:

• Introduce yourself and what kind of content you create

• Mention why you love the brand or product (keep it personal + real)

• Briefly explain how your content could benefit them (think: storytelling, relatability, quality)

• Add a link to your portfolio and contact info

Example line: “I’d love to create relatable, UGC-style content that helps highlight how your product fits naturally into everyday life. Here’s a link to my portfolio if you’d like to see more.“

Aim to keep it short and sweet—brands are busy, and a clear message will stand out more than a long one.

Leverage Social Media Like A Pro

Your social accounts are not just for posting—they’re your mini-marketing machine. Posting consistently (even just 2–3 times a week) keeps you visible and shows brands you’re active and professional.

What to do:

• Use UGC-related hashtags like #ugccreator #ugccreatorcommunity #ugccontent

• Tag brands in your content (especially when it’s a product you genuinely love)

• Write helpful or reflective captions that speak to your values and style

• Add “UGC Creator” to your bio so you’re easy to find

Remember: the more you show up online, the more discoverable and credible you become.

Network With Other Creators

The UGC world is surprisingly friendly. Seriously. Creators share leads, drop tips, repost job opps, and support each other all the time.

Here’s how to build those connections:

• Leave meaningful comments on other creators’ posts

• Send a quick DM complimenting someone’s work or asking a genuine question

• Join UGC Facebook groups or Slack communities

• Tag or collaborate with creators in similar niches

Not everything has to be transactional—sometimes, just vibing and connecting naturally leads to new ideas or referrals.

Set Your Rates (Without the Stress)

Pricing is tricky at first, but don’t let it stop you. Even as a beginner, your time, creativity, and energy have value.

Start by doing a little research:

• Look up current UGC pricing guides (hint: creators on TikTok often share helpful breakdowns)

• Decide what you’re comfortable charging for: one video, photo sets, bundles, usage rights, etc.

• Be transparent in conversations, and don’t be afraid to negotiate with kindness

Example: “For this project, my rate would be €150 for one video with full usage rights for 6 months.“

Confidence goes a long way, especially when you back it up with quality work.

Create Contracts (Even Simple Ones)

Contracts = clarity and protection for both sides. You don’t need anything super formal—a simple agreement outlining:

• Deliverables (what you’re creating)

• Timeline (when you’ll deliver it)

• Payment terms (amount + due date)

• Usage rights (where/how they can use the content)

You can use free templates from platforms like Notion, Canva, or even Google Docs to get started.

PRO TIP – Always get things in writing—even if it’s just a friendly brand collab. It helps set expectations and avoids awkwardness later.

Putting yourself out there can feel vulnerable, but it’s also incredibly empowering. You’re not just “looking for work”—you’re building a creative business around your skills and your voice. Be consistent, be kind, and back yourself. The right brands will notice.