In short
To start UGC, your phone is enough if it films in 1080p or better. Invest in light first (a window or an LED panel), then sound (a lavalier mic), then stability (a tripod). The rest can wait for your first contracts.
Priorities, in order
- Light: it's what makes the result look professional. A window in front of you, in daytime, already goes a long way.
- Sound: a clear voice holds attention. A wired or wireless lavalier mic changes everything.
- Stability: a tripod with a phone holder, for clean, repeatable framing.
- Set: a tidy corner, a few items from your niche, no competing brand logos.
Three budget levels
| Budget | Gear | For whom |
|---|---|---|
| €0 | Phone, a window, a stack of books as a tripod | Your first practice videos |
| About €60 to €100 | Tripod, lavalier mic, small LED panel | Your first contracts |
| About €200 to €400 | Two lights, wireless mic, backdrop, articulated arm | A steady pace, several niches |
The settings that matter
- Film with the phone's rear camera, which is better than the front one.
- Lock exposure and focus before you hit record.
- Choose 1080p or 4K at 30 frames per second, and keep the same setting for the whole shoot.
- Clean the lens before every session.
- Turn off notifications and switch on airplane mode to avoid interruptions.
Purchases that can wait
A new camera, a motorised gimbal or paid editing software won't save a badly lit video. Start with what you have, then reinvest part of your first contracts. For next steps, see how to become a UGC creator.
Common questions
What gear do you need to start UGC?
A recent phone is enough. Add, in this order, good light (a window or an LED panel), a lavalier mic and a tripod.
Do you need an iPhone for UGC?
No. A recent Android phone or iPhone that films in 1080p or 4K works. Light and sound matter more than the phone brand.
This guide gives practical pointers. Rules vary by country: it doesn't replace advice from an accountant or a lawyer for your situation.