Not every user-generated clip is camera-ready. Bad lighting, shaky audio, awkward framing — we’ve seen it all. But with the right approach, you can turn rough UGC into scroll-stopping ads.
Here’s how to polish imperfect content into performance-ready creative.
1. Lead with the strongest moment
Watch the footage and find the single most compelling line, look, or gesture. Start the ad with it.
Don’t open with “Hey guys…” — it wastes your hook.
2. Use punchy editing
Fast cuts and smart pacing can transform a slow clip. Cut pauses, remove filler, and tighten the flow.
3. Overlay clear messaging
Even if the speaker mumbles or rambles, you can guide the message visually.
Text is your best friend when the footage is messy.
4. Add music and polish
A great soundtrack can change the entire feel. Match music to energy and brand tone.
5. Keep it real — not perfect
Don’t over-edit. UGC works because it feels human. Embrace small flaws if they support authenticity. People trust real people more than polished scripts.
Final thought
Raw UGC isn’t a weakness — it’s a starting point. With the right edit and structure, even shaky iPhone footage can outperform your studio ads.
Want to avoid the five most common video ad mistakes?
Download our free guide at upstir.co/5-video-ad-mistakes
It is 14 pages of real tips to help you improve your hooks, lower ad costs, and create content that actually works.
Here’s how to polish imperfect content into performance-ready creative.
1. Lead with the strongest moment
Watch the footage and find the single most compelling line, look, or gesture. Start the ad with it.
- A bold statement
- A strong facial expression
- A product payoff shot
Don’t open with “Hey guys…” — it wastes your hook.
2. Use punchy editing
Fast cuts and smart pacing can transform a slow clip. Cut pauses, remove filler, and tighten the flow.
- Cut between camera angles (even if it’s zooms/pans on the same clip)
- Use sound effects to add energy
- Add quick on-screen text to highlight key lines
3. Overlay clear messaging
Even if the speaker mumbles or rambles, you can guide the message visually.
- Use captions
- Add benefit-driven phrases
- Highlight product name + feature + CTA in the last 3 seconds
Text is your best friend when the footage is messy.
4. Add music and polish
A great soundtrack can change the entire feel. Match music to energy and brand tone.
- Chill for skincare
- Fast and punchy for fitness or tech
- Use motion graphics or subtle animations to elevate
5. Keep it real — not perfect
Don’t over-edit. UGC works because it feels human. Embrace small flaws if they support authenticity. People trust real people more than polished scripts.
Final thought
Raw UGC isn’t a weakness — it’s a starting point. With the right edit and structure, even shaky iPhone footage can outperform your studio ads.
Want to avoid the five most common video ad mistakes?
Download our free guide at upstir.co/5-video-ad-mistakes
It is 14 pages of real tips to help you improve your hooks, lower ad costs, and create content that actually works.