Brands are not going to remind you to charge more.

When I first started creating User-Generated Content (UGC), I had no idea how to price my work properly. Many brands would send me a first offer, and I would immediately accept it, thinking I was lucky to get any deal at all. Over time, I learned that this initial offer is usually a lowball designed to test how much you’ll accept. Negotiating is key—it’s how you secure the full value of your work. A big eye-opener for me was understanding the value of usage rights. Some brands want to run your videos as paid ads or for extended campaigns. This means you aren’t just selling the video itself but licensing it for specific uses. Charging for usage rights on top of your creation fee can significantly increase your earnings. Also, don’t fall into the trap of confusing gifted collaborations with actual brand deals. Receiving free products might seem like a bonus, but it doesn’t pay your bills or account for the time and resources you invest. Your time, editing, and equipment always hold value. Another important point is exclusivity. If a brand wants you to avoid working with competitors for a period, that limits your opportunities, so it’s fair to charge extra for that restriction. Finally, revisions can pile up and cut into your productivity. Including one or two rounds of revisions in your contract is standard, but additional changes should be compensated fairly. Taking the time to set clear boundaries and fees will boost your confidence and income as a UGC creator. Remember, brands aren’t going to remind you to charge more—it's up to you to know your worth and advocate for it.