In 2022 I started my journey as a UGC creator when a brand reached out to me on Instagram asking if I would create a video for them. I was blown away when they offered to pay me over $500 for a video that took me less than 30 minutes to create. The best part? I didn't have to post it on my socials, and I shot it right from my iPhone. 

At that time, I had zero editing skills or background knowledge on how to create compelling content. I was a total amateur, but the brand loved what I created.

I stayed in touch with this brand, and continued working with them over the next couple months. It wasn't too long before I had a decent amount of content that I added to a portfolio, which I used to pitch to similar brands. 

Before long, what started as a fun side hustle that allowed me to connect with brands, get free products, and make a little extra cash, turned into my primary source of income. It turns out, brands are willing to pay top dollar for authentic, amateur photos and videos!

I never would have guessed that by fall of 2023 I would have months where I completed 40+ UGC projects for various brands, each paying between $140 and $1,200 (beginner-friendly rates!) and taking me less than an hour to complete. 

Now, I'm able to work from my phone, make my own schedule, and work with my favorite brands every day. 

There are SO many things I wish I had known when starting UGC that would have fast tracked my career majorly, which is why I decided to create this guide. It has everything you need to know to start your journey, connect with brands, and complete your first transaction!