Making Money by Creating UGC Content: Can You Sell Videos to Brands Without a Follower?

UGC (User Generated Content) is when brands purchase videos, photos or short content from the content producer to promote their products or services in a real user experience format. The important point in this model is that, unlike the classical influencer system, it is not always necessary to have a large follower base.

It makes more sense to choose a single niche to start: like beauty, technology, apps, home products, fitness, food or lifestyle. Then, 5–10 sample UGC videos can be prepared. These don't have to be actual client work; Portfolio work can be done with the products a person owns.

The tools required are pretty simple to begin with: a smartphone, a well-lit environment, a basic video editing app, and a simple web page or PDF to create a portfolio. More professional equipment is not mandatory initially.

Money-making methods include reaching out to brands directly, using UGC platforms, sharing portfolios on social media, and listing services on freelance marketplaces. The main goal for a beginner is to create good examples before charging high prices.

Initial cost: It may be low if the phone already exists. Equipment such as lights, tripods or microphones can be purchased later.

Revenue: Price per video; varies significantly depending on the type of content, usage rights, delivery time, number of revisions and experience of the producer. High UGC income seen on the internet should not be considered as guaranteed income.

Things to consider: The duration and channels in which the brand will use the content as advertising should be clearly stated in the contract. Clauses such as “unlimited right of use” should be examined particularly carefully. Work in return for product and paid work should be distinguished; One should be careful about fake brand offers asking for payment.

Who is it not suitable for? This model can be challenging for people who don't want to talk on camera, can't produce regular content, or don't want to manage client revisions.