Calling all UGC creators! Whether you're new to UGC or looking to refine your style to land more brand deals, you’re in the right place. Brands are constantly searching for content that feels organic yet polished—something that balances authenticity with strong production value. If you’re wondering how to create UGC that truly stands out and gets brands excited to work with you, keep reading. These five tips will help take your content to the next level.
1. Master Your Angles—They Matter More Than You Think
Angles can make or break your content. You don’t need to be a professional photographer, but being intentional with how you frame your shots instantly makes your content look more high-end. Brands can tell right away if a creator knows what they’re doing just by looking at the angles they use. When filming, make sure your face is centered and well-framed if you're speaking to the camera. If you're showcasing a product, ensure that it’s fully visible and not awkwardly cropped out of the frame. Avoid shaky hands—if needed, use a tripod or stabilizer to keep your shots steady. Small details like this make a big difference and show brands that you know how to create polished, high-quality content.
2. Lighting Is Everything—Make It Look Effortless (Even If It’s Not)
Lighting is one of the biggest factors in making your content look professional. While UGC is meant to feel authentic, remember that brands still use this content for marketing—whether in ads, on social media, or on their websites. Bad lighting can instantly make a video look low-quality, and no brand wants that. Natural lighting is your best friend, so try filming near a window or outside for a bright, fresh look. If you’re filming at night or in a dimly lit space, invest in a ring light or softbox to maintain a clean and well-lit aesthetic. The goal is to make both you and the product clearly visible without any harsh shadows or overexposure. Also, be mindful of your background and remove clutter or distractions so that the focus stays on the product you’re featuring. Lighting sets the entire tone of your video, so take the time to get it right.
3. Prioritize Clear, Crisp Audio—Your Voice Needs to Shine
Even if your visuals are top-notch, poor audio can ruin your content. Your audience needs to hear and understand you without distractions. Make sure you’re speaking clearly and naturally as if you’re explaining the product to a friend. Enunciate your words and double-check that you’re pronouncing the brand and product name correctly because getting it right shows your professionalism and attention to detail. Background noise can be a major issue, so film in a quiet space or use an external microphone for clearer sound. If you’re adding background music, make sure it doesn’t overpower your voice. A common mistake creators make is setting the music volume too high, making it difficult for viewers to focus on the message. The clearer your voice, the more engaging and effective your content will be.
4. Keep Animations and Text Clean, Engaging, and On-Point
Animations and text overlays can elevate your UGC, but only when they’re done correctly. Messy or inconsistent text, poorly timed animations, and distracting fonts can make your content look unprofessional. When adding text, make sure it’s legible, properly sized, and not covering any important elements in your video. Stick to clean, modern fonts that match the brand’s aesthetic rather than overly decorative ones that can be hard to read. Your animations should also be smooth and well-timed. The text should appear on-screen at just the right moment—too early or too late, and it can feel off-beat. Before sending your content to a brand, always double-check for typos or awkward transitions. Even small mistakes can make a brand think twice about working with you again, so take the time to perfect these details.
5. Authenticity—The Secret of UGC Success
If there’s one thing that separates great UGC from mediocre content, it’s authenticity. Remember, UGC exists because brands want to move away from overly polished, scripted ads and instead connect with consumers in a real, relatable way. Your personality and delivery should feel natural—not robotic or overly rehearsed. One of the best ways to achieve this is by starting with a strong hook that grabs the viewer’s attention immediately. Instead of simply introducing a product, try addressing a common pain point, like, “Struggling with acne-prone skin? I got you.” This makes your content instantly more engaging. From there, talk about the product as if you’re recommending it to a close friend. Genuine enthusiasm and real-life experiences go a long way in making your content feel authentic. Finally, always end with a strong call to action, like “Click the link in my bio to try this for yourself!” This gives the audience a clear next step and increases the likelihood of conversions.
Final Thoughts: The Winning Formula for High-Quality UGC
Creating UGC that brands love isn’t just about picking up your phone and filming. It’s about being intentional with your production, messaging, and delivery. By focusing on angles, lighting, audio quality, animations, and authenticity, you can produce content that not only looks great but also drives results. Brands are constantly looking for creators who can deliver polished, high-quality videos that still feel natural and engaging. So, whether you’re just starting out or refining your craft, keep these tips in mind, put in the extra effort, and have fun with it!
