4 Tips to Start in UGC as a Creative

4 Reasons to Create UGC

I started working in UGC or User Generated Content back in December and it’s honestly been a game changer for my business. For the longest time I though UGC creatives were these fancy creators who were essentially professional photographers and videographers. Now I know that isn’t the case and my years of brand deals in the lifestyle niche have helped me tremendously as a creative. So, if you want to learn more about UGC, keep on reading!

One: Start With the Mundane

When I started in social media, I felt like the only way I could be successful was if I posted photos of myself out and about doing something fun in my outfits. I would seriously drag my friends around town to take pictures of me dressed up and I would post looks like that every single day. I would even pack a car full of clothes and batch prep content!

While at times I still do this to a degree, I also try to have fun with the mundane. Whether that is making a coffee at home or doing my skincare routine, I have begun to get experimental with my content. I think by finally pushing myself as a creator and not just posting little outfits every day, my page has blossomed into something fun that I am proud of.

Two: Do Not be Afraid to Learn

I am always learning and evolving as a business owner! It’s honestly quite fun!!

Something I wish I knew earlier in my content education was to act like you know nothing and always be eager to learn. I pushed off my education for SO long and I think it bit me in the bum! In this past year I have finally broken out of my shell and took a pitching master class as well as finally taking the time to learn about photography and various styles of content.

Of course you want to add your own personality to your work, we are our own brand and your personal vision is essential to a solid creative business. But there is nothing wrong with seeing and adjusting what other people are doing. There are trends that will naturally perform better than others and once you start embracing those new perspectives your own content will be fantastic.

Three: Experiment with your Content

I noticed when I started tinkering around with my content and sharing more than just fashion posts I finally was gaining new opportunities as an influencer. I now share beauty, food, and travel content to inspire and educate my audience about the world around us. As I have started to branch out into different content styles, I noticed my confidence grow as a UGC creator and it became more comfortable to talk on various topics.

I now also try out different photographs and video styles. This could be simple flat lays or fun lifestyle images. I also take a variety of videos from long b-roll clips to short videos that bounce from place to place. As long as we remain engaging to our audience brands will then want to work with you.

Four: Advertise Yourself as a Professional

My biggest tip to getting started and growing as a UGC creator is to just put yourself out there! Take some time to collect high quality content and place it in a portfolio like the one on my website. It also never hurts to reach out to brands and businesses on influencer platforms or just on social media itself. The more you put yourself out there, the greater opportunities arise.

If UGC intimidates you, remember you don’t need a following to do this work. Just show brands your perspective and don’t be afraid to fail. It’s with failure that you grow and once the advertisements go out, you don’t have to worry about posting it and engaging with your own audience. It’s a great way to make a full time income online and it’s an industry that is continuing to grow.

Happy Creating

I hope this post inspires you to start creating UGC! I am so glad I have added it to my business offerings, it’s allowed me to make thousands more as a creative! Whether you are selling packages or one off campaigns, UGC is a great way to make content without actually becoming an influencer. If you want to learn more about the industry, do not hesitate to reach out on my Contact page. I offer coaching and love talking about user generated content!

Until next time,

Lauren