UGC
Marketing

10 Types of UGC Videos for Your Brand + How to Utilize It

January 19, 2024

User-generated content (UGC) videos are the talk of the town when it comes to all things UGC-related. Don't get me wrong, other versions of UGC, such as photos and written testimonials, are amazing ways to grow your brand authentically, but there's just something about those short-form videos. They can quickly grab the consumer's attention and create a relatable organic following that can make anyone want to be a part of it. These types of videos will always be considered the king of the castle but can begin to flatline if you keep up with the same strategy. This is by no means a hot new trend, so it's important to always be on the lookout for new styles and various types of UGC videos that can help take your brand to the next step. 

In this article, we're going to dive into 10 different types of UGC video examples and see how you can utilize them for your brand. 

Tutorial and How To Videos 

Tutorial and How-to videos are pretty self-explanatory. These UGC videos are instructional content that usually provides step-by-step guidance on how to perform a specific task or learn a particular skill. These videos aim to educate and guide viewers through a process, offering detailed explanations and demonstrations. Tutorial videos can cover a wide range of topics, from technology and software tutorials to DIY projects, cooking recipes, beauty tips, and more.

How to Utilize it 

The goal is to share knowledge and help viewers acquire new skills or knowledge through a visual and practical demonstration. Tutorial videos serve as a valuable resource for those seeking to learn and understand various topics in a hands-on and accessible format. This style of UGC videos can work wonders for your brand. It can persuade any newcomers with the reassurance of the product and answer any questions for repeat customers. 

Example

By SWOOP NEBULA

Let's face it: Adobe can nearly sell itself with the amazing line of software it offers. The only caveat to their softwares is that they are very extensive and can be overwhelming at times, even for people with years of experience. These videos are a perfect example of a tutorial/how-to UGC video in its peak format. The creator explains various things the average consumer wants to know about Adobe Illustrator. This builds a community and keeps them engaged because they always know where to find some help when feeling stuck. 

Before & After Videos

Before and after videos are a type of video that showcases the transformation in something or someone over a period of time, in this case, one short-form video. They can be used for nearly any product but are most commonly used in various contexts, such as fitness and weight loss, home renovation, makeup and beauty, and product reviews. These videos typically use a picture-in-picture feature to display two videos side by side, allowing viewers to see the contrast between the "before" and "after" states.

How to Utilize it 

The overall goal and how to utilize a  before and after video is to visually showcase a transformation or change over a specific period, often highlighting the contrast between the initial state (before) and the transformed or improved state (after). The goal is to inspire, motivate, or demonstrate the effectiveness of a particular process, product, or service by presenting tangible results. These videos can make the viewer feel like they need this product, showing how great and easy their life could be if they had it. These videos are compelling visual narratives that provide a clear and impactful message that clearly shows change, hopefully in a positive way. These types of videos are good not only for your social media pages but for your website's landing pages as well. 

Example

By Aylen Park

When it comes to before and after videos, this one hits the spot. They talk about the hair mask and show their hair before and after while showing the whole process, keeping everyone watching for the final result. This video has generated over three million views alone and has people in the comments dying to know where they can get a tub of their own. 

Listicle Videos

A listicle video is technically a piece of writing or another form of content, such as videos, presented wholly or partially in the form of a list. These videos typically feature a series of concise points, often accompanied by visuals, graphics, or brief video clips to support each item on the list. Listicle videos are popular across various genres, including entertainment, beauty,  education, and lifestyle.

How to Utilize it

For example, a tech-related listicle video might showcase "Top 10 Gadgets of the Year," providing a quick overview of each gadget with accompanying visuals. In lifestyle content, a video could present "5 Quick and Healthy Recipes" or even a "3 Reasons Why," demonstrating each thing in a digestible format. The goal of listicle videos is to deliver information in a structured, easy-to-follow manner, making it engaging for viewers who prefer bite-sized content. These types of videos can be powerful when launching a new product; you're able to showcase and boast its benefits to the scrollers. Starting the video with a clear hook and then presenting the list in an easy way for the viewer to understand will keep them engaged until the end.  

Example

By Brittany Minetti

It's never just about why you need this product but the energy you bring with it. This video not only showcases green screen UGC (we'll get into this later) but also has someone who is genuinely excited and loves the product. She clearly states the three reasons why you need them in a fun and relatable way that any consumer can get on board with. Even after finding this video myself, it makes me want to order the product to see how good it is. 

Green Screen Videos

My first encounter with green screen-style videos, if you want to call it that, was when I was a kid and my mom would put on the news, watching the weather forecaster disappear and become a floating head when they accidentally wore green that day. Green screen-style videos involve filming in front of a green (or sometimes blue) background, which allows content creators to replace the background with a different image or video during the editing process. This technique is also known as chroma keying. Green is commonly used because it is less likely to be present in the subjects being filmed.

How to Utilize it

In green screen videos, the background is replaced with various visuals, such as virtual sets, landscapes, or dynamic graphics. This flexibility enables creators to transport themselves or their subjects to different environments, enhancing the visual appeal and storytelling of the video. Green screen technology is widely used in filmmaking, video production, and content creation, providing a cost-effective way to create versatile and visually engaging videos. This way, you can continue to show the UGC creator and the product itself simultaneously for a more digestible video experience. This style can be used for nearly any product, and anytime you want to inform your audience in a visually pleasing way.

Example

By creativelycarla

As you can see in the video displayed above, with the green screen video method, you can effectively show your audience the product, its features, where to buy it and more, all while staying on screen and not getting left behind. 

Product Feature Videos

A product feature ad or video has been a main staple in the world of marketing for quite some time now. It is often presented in the form of a static creative but has been known to perform particularly well in the world of UGC. Product feature videos are promotional videos created by companies and UGC creators to showcase the specific attributes, functionalities, and benefits of a product. These videos are designed to provide a detailed and visually engaging presentation of the key features that make the product unique or superior in the market and its competitors.


How to Utilize it

In a product feature video, you can expect to see close-up shots, demonstrations, and explanations of various aspects of the product. The goal is to highlight how the product works, what problems it solves, and why consumers should consider purchasing it. These videos often incorporate visual elements such as graphics, animations, and on-screen text to communicate the product's features effectively. Product feature videos are commonly used in marketing campaigns, on product pages of websites, and across social media platforms to inform and persuade potential customers. They play a crucial role in helping consumers make informed decisions by providing a comprehensive understanding of what the product has to offer. One of the main ways you've probably seen feature videos used recently is in the current trend of "TikTok made me buy it" videos. 

Example

By Sarah Aulbrook

This video style can be used across the board, from a high-tech piece of equipment to a cup that simply turns any drink into a slushie. It's a simple yet effective way to show consumers, "Hey, I bought this product, so you don't have to; let me show you how good it is." Seeing the end result and the success of the product from real people can go a long way.

Trend Videos

"Trend videos" typically refer to videos that follow or capitalize on current trends, popular challenges, or viral content circulating on social media platforms. Content creators often participate in these trends to stay relevant, engage their audience, and leverage the visibility associated with trending topics. Trend videos can vary widely in content, covering everything from dance challenges and lip-syncing trends to specific challenges or memes that gain widespread popularity. The goal is to tap into the current cultural zeitgeist and create content that resonates with a broad audience.

How to Utilize it

Creating trend videos can work in your favour by capitalizing on popular topics and engaging with a broader audience. Here's how they can benefit you:

Increased Visibility: Trending topics often have high visibility due to their popularity. By participating in trends, your videos are more likely to be discovered by a larger audience, increasing your overall reach.

Community Engagement: Trending challenges or topics can create a sense of community as others join in and interact with your content. This engagement can lead to more likes, comments, and shares, boosting your presence on the platform.

Relevance: Participating in trend videos demonstrates that you are current and in touch with the interests of your audience. This can help build a stronger connection with your viewers and followers.

Going Viral: Trending content has the potential to go viral. If your video aligns well with a popular trend, it may be shared widely, increasing your chances of gaining new followers and expanding your online presence.

To make trend videos work for you, stay informed about current trends on the platform you're using and creatively incorporate them into your content. However, it's essential to balance trend participation with maintaining authenticity and relevance to your overall content strategy.

Example

By Rachel thatcurllblog

We're not necessarily looking at the video here but the sound the creator has used. For months on end, every single day, I heard Surround Sound by JID whenever I loaded up TikTok or Instagram. It's always a good idea to stay updated on the latest songs, sounds or hashtags that are trending. This way, you have a chance of reaching new people and maybe even going viral.   

Problem Solution Videos

This is the top UGC-style video by far. Problem-solution videos typically address a specific issue or challenge and provide viewers with practical solutions or helpful advice. These videos are a form of content creation where the creator identifies a problem that their audience may be facing and then offers guidance, tips, or step-by-step solutions to overcome that particular issue.

How to Utilize it

For example, in the context of DIY and home improvement, a problem solution video might address common household problems like a leaky faucet and guide viewers through the steps to fix it. In the health and wellness niche, these videos could cover topics such as stress management techniques or quick workouts for busy schedules. The primary goal of problem-solution videos is to provide valuable information, assist viewers in resolving issues, and establish the creator as a helpful resource or expert in a particular field.

Example

By kyliekatich

These types of problem-solution videos make you give a chef's kiss; she followed the recipe perfectly and made a killer meal… well, video. She described the problem in the hook to get the user's attention, showcased the problem in a relatable way, provided a clear and simple solution using this one product, showcased the benefits and then topped it off with a clear call to action (CTA) at the end of the video.   

Q&A Videos

Q&A videos, short for "question and answer" videos, involve content creators responding to questions posed by their audience. Creators often collect questions from their followers through social media platforms, comments, or other channels and then compile and answer them in a video format. Q&A videos provide a way for content creators to directly engage with their audience, share personal insights, and address specific queries.

How to Utilize it

These videos can cover a wide range of topics depending on the creator's niche or expertise. In Q&A videos, creators may discuss their experiences, offer advice, or provide information on various subjects. This format helps build a connection with the audience by allowing viewers to get to know the creator better and feel more involved in the content creation process. Ultimately, integrating FAQ videos into content strategies enables brands to communicate efficiently, build trust, and enhance the overall customer experience.

Example

By Skin Cupid

It doesn't matter if it's Q&A or FAQ; they're generally the same thing. Brands strategically use FAQ videos to address common questions and provide valuable information. This video is a great representation of this category because the creator answers the most frequently asked questions and even responds to additional ones in the comments, pushing the credibility even further.

Mashup Videos

Mashup videos involve combining and editing elements from different sources to create a new, cohesive piece of content. These elements can include products, video clips, audio snippets, images, or other media from various origins. Overall, mashup videos are a creative way to remix and repurpose existing content to convey a fresh perspective or entertain the audience.

How to Utilize it

Brands can engage their audience through mashup videos, leveraging various approaches. This includes crafting dynamic product highlight reels that blend customer testimonials, product demonstrations, and positive reviews for an engaging promotional piece. Additionally, brands can foster a sense of community by curating and combining user-generated content, like customer photos and testimonials, into entertaining mashup videos. Collaborations and partnerships with other brands or influencers can be showcased in mashup videos, amplifying joint efforts. Offering a behind-the-scenes look through mashup videos, which compile snippets of the production process or team activities, provides transparency and a human touch to the brand. It's crucial for brands to ensure that these videos align with their overall image and values, as thoughtfully crafted mashup videos can serve as a powerful tool to connect with the audience.

Example

By beezicreations

A great example is shown here, as the creator shows all of the brand's products in one video. This is a great way to show a huge new haul, invite fellow creators for a collaboration, or do a big end-of-the-year recap!

Behind The Scenes Videos

Behind-the-scenes (BTS) video is a type of content that takes viewers behind the curtain with the creator to showcase the making of a production, project, or event. These videos provide an insider's perspective, revealing aspects of the creative process, team dynamics, and the effort involved in bringing a project to fruition. BTS footage may include glimpses of rehearsals, set construction, equipment setup, interactions among team members, and other behind-the-scenes activities.

How to Utilize it

Brands strategically utilize BTS videos to foster transparency and authenticity, connecting with their audience by revealing the genuine aspects of their processes. These videos play a crucial role in various aspects, including product launches, offering insights into the development stages and building anticipation. BTS content introduces the team and creators behind the brand, strengthening the personal connection between the brand and its audience. Brands and creators also leverage BTS content for promotional exclusivity, offering dedicated customers or followers behind-the-scenes access. Shared on social media platforms, these videos enhance engagement and contribute to differentiating the brand in a competitive market. The authentic and intimate nature of BTS content resonates with consumers, offering a unique insight beyond the final product or service.

Example

By laraxspengler

In this video, you get an in-depth look at how productions can go with the creators. These videos can offer a never-before-seen look at a product that is yet to come, creating a sense of anticipation. It's also a great way to showcase various personalities on the team and get the comment section engaged. 

What One Are You Making?

In conclusion, the world of User-Generated Content (UGC) videos is dynamic and ever-evolving, with short-form videos emerging as a powerful tool to authentically grow brands. While UGC in various forms is impactful, there's a unique charm in short-form videos that captivate audiences and create organic followings. As brands navigate this UGC landscape, the key lies not just in adopting these video styles but in staying vigilant for new trends and styles to keep strategies fresh and engaging. By understanding these video formats and their unique benefits, your brand can strategically integrate UGC into its marketing strategies. Encouraging users to actively participate in content creation not only expands the brand reach but also fosters a sense of community. Hopefully, you've discovered some new types of videos that can help you to create your dream campaign. This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to all things UGC. 

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