RESOURCES
quality requirements
for each video ensure you follow the brief details and all specified talking points.
requirements
picture quality must be at least 1080p
backgrounds are neat. clean. and not distracting
lighting is bright and even - no dark or harsh shadows. no dim lighting.
use the correct aspect ratios specified in the video briefs
include negative (empty) space around you and/or the product
have clear and clean audio - no background noise. echos. or reverberation.
helpful tips
brief details
to avoid re-edits and doing double work, read through each brief carefully and thoroughly before recording.
check any pronunciations for unfamiliar words or names.
picture quality
use the phone’s back camera. the backside cameras usually have the best picture quality.
see “negative/empty space” for tricks on framing with the back camera vs the front.
always be sure to export the video at 1080p.
most editing software will allow you to choose pixel quality before exporting. see CapCut’s example here.
background
find a background with little to no distractions
if you have extra movement or items in the scene, have them relate to the video prompt (like items that identify the space you’re in as a public setting, a bathroom, kitchen, etc.)
clean the spaces you are using in the video. remove clutter, dust, or anything that would be distracting from the premise of the video
lighting
position yourself in front of a window with natural light.
ring lights can help evenly light your face or the scene.
keep the lighting consistent from frame to frame, scene to scene.
avoid unintentional dark, harsh shadows that distort your face or obscure product visibility.
aspect ratios
pay attention to whether the video needs to be vertical or horizontal
the brief will give you the correct aspect ratio
stick to one aspect ratio the whole video. don’t switch aspect ratios mid-video.
negative/empty space
negative space is important because the client may need to crop the video to multiple sizes. it will also allow you add things like captions, graphics, etc.
use a phone holder tripod or other set up to create a “frame” or “scene”.
take a test clip or two and perform some actions you will need for the video. adjust the framing or “action space” as needed to get the desired centered + focused look.
use this graphic to help you determine where to put most of your video's action or where to include any text. avoid putting anything important in the red areas.
audio
film in smaller enclosed spaces with fabrics. such as comforters, blankets, couches, pillows, rugs, etc. these soak up sound and reduce echo.
for a more professional sound, use an external microphone. like this, or this, or this.
don’t speed up video clips that you are using the direct audio from
“quiet on set!” make sure there’s no unwanted background noise contributing to your audio.
resources for UGC video creation
CapCut
CapCut is a free video editing app that offers useful editing features to edit videos on your smartphone.
Upon first downloading CapCut, you’ll get a tutorial on how to navigate the platform + use it’s editing features and tools. The app also supplies templates. tutorials. and an “ad maker” feature to help you build your skillset and become more efficient.
recipe for UGC
5 best hook strategies
UGC do's and don'ts
clothing haul example
what needs improvement
the background is messy and can be tidied up.
there is dim backlighting and can be brightened up.
what was good
there are a variety of outfits showcased.
the transitions are smooth and attention-grabbing.
the creator makes different outfits by combining different pieces.
feature highlight #1
what needs improvement
the product is not always in focus.
the angle made it hard to tell if the product was effective.
the video is too long.
what was good
the creator thoroughly explains + demonstrates how each feature is used and how it's helpful.
there is bright and even lighting throughout the video.
feature highlight #2
what needs improvement
the video is missing a voice-over to help explain the features.
what was good
the product is always in focus and is the center of attention.
the creator demonstrates the product’s effectiveness.
the video is short and to the point.
the video contains the "oddly satisfying" hook.
example of low quality audio
what needs improvement
the video contains distracting echoes. reverberation. and audio distortion.
the voiceover is too sped up.
example of good quality audio
what was good
the video quality is clean and crisp.
the audio quality is clear.
the video runs at a good speed and pace.
the creator concisely explains all the important product features.