You might have heard of user generated content. Even if you’re not familiar with the term, if you use the internet regularly you will almost certainly have come across it!
So what exactly is it, and how can you use it?
What is it?
In a nutshell, User Generated Content (or UGC) is media content created by users or consumers, and posted on social media or other online platforms. This could be product photos, unboxing videos or even podcasts.
Why is it so popular?
This style of content has become hugely popular, particularly with millenials, as it’s authentic, believable and engaging. And this all helps to drive sales, with 60% of consumers claiming UGC is one of their biggest influences when making purchasing decisions.
How are brands using it?
Brands were quick to realise the potential benefits of UGC and it’s become a hugely valuable online marketing tool, with many large companies like Coca-Cola regularly incorporating it into their marketing strategies.
It’s now a big business, with professional ‘influencers’ being paid large sums of money to promote certain products online.
Fancy giving it a go?
How hard can it be? Well… although it began with fairly amateur style content, with the rise of the professional influencer the content is now expected to be of a certain standard. Some brands are even re-creating the ‘home-made’ style in the studio!
If you fancy giving it a go, follow our tips to ensure your user-generated style content looks top-notch:
Plan It Out
If you’re making a video, think about drafting a basic script.
This will help your dialog flow smoothly, with no awkward pauses.
Set Up
Think about your composition, background and lighting, even if you’re only shooting on your phone! Avoid shooting against bright lights or windows and think about what’s on display around you.
Use a tripod to avoid shaky footage and think about the orientation.
Sound
Microphones built into cameras and phones usually aren’t great. It might be worth investing in a mic if sound quality is important.
Make sure your surrounding isn't too noisy, no slamming doors or traffic!
All set?
Now you just need to choose the right platform and share!
Need a hand?
If that all sounds a bit too much, don’t worry, we’re here to help!
Get in touch today if you’d like us to help create something for you!
We hope that this guide to user-generated content has been helpful, but if you have any questions or there's something we didn't cover, don't hesitate to ask or drop us a comment!👇
About us
We are Future Proof Photography Ltd, a creative studio on a mission to bring your brand to life and share its story with the world, one scroll-stopping piece of content at a time. We specialise in product photography, videography and stop motion animations for food, drink and lifestyle brands of all sizes.
Get in touch
Ready to set a date for your shoot, or want to chat to us about an idea? Get in touch with our friendly team via our 'Contact' page, click here, or shoot us an email: hello@futureproofcreative.co.uk
Please check out our social media content creators gallery to see more pictures like those above.
Comments